The Economic Times

The Trump administration is urging a federal appeals court to halt a judge's order pausing the construction of a $400 million ballroom, citing grave national security risks to the President and his family. Lawyers argue the current open construction site is more vulnerable to threats than a fortified facility, requesting an expedited decision.

Iran war: The downing of a US fighter jet by Iran has challenged claims by Donald Trump that the US had achieved near-total control over Iranian airspace, raising political risks for his administration five weeks into the war. Trump had repeatedly said Iran lacked the ability to resist and projected a narrative of victory to calm markets and public opinion.

Iran has lodged a formal complaint with the UN regarding US-Israeli strikes near its Bushehr nuclear plant. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of serious radioactive contamination risks. The IAEA confirmed a projectile hit near the plant, killing one staff member and damaging a building. Nuclear sites must not be targeted, the IAEA chief stated, urging restraint to prevent accidents.

Five people have died following strikes on a petrochemical hub in southwestern Iran. The incident occurred on Saturday. Seventeen people sustained injuries but did not require hospitalization. The attack targeted facilities in the Mahshahr Petrochemical Special Economic Zone. Iranian officials attributed the strikes to the United States and Israel. The premises of three companies were hit.

West Asia War: India has resumed energy trade with Iran. Refiners are receiving Iranian crude oil and LPG. This comes as the country secures global supplies amid Middle East disruptions. Iran's oil shipments are crucial for India's growing economy. The nation is ensuring safe passage for its vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Quote of the day: The quote by Leo Tolstoy highlights that a successful marriage is not built on perfect compatibility but on how couples handle their differences. It explains that disagreements are natural in any relationship, and what truly matters is patience, understanding, and the ability to manage conflicts in a healthy way. The idea remains relevant today as it shifts focus from finding a perfect partner to building a stronger relationship over time.

Todays Quote of the Day highlights Gary Cooper and his simple thought about being natural. The quote encourages people to stay real and not try too hard. It shows how confidence comes from authenticity. The message is easy and motivating for daily life. This inspiring quote reminds readers that being yourself can create a strong impact and leave a lasting impression.

People born after 1981 are urged to check their ISA savings before the April 5 deadline. Data shows younger adults have less saved than older generations. Experts say starting early can help build money over time. The yearly ISA limit resets soon, and unused allowance is lost. Future rule changes may also push more people toward investing instead of holding only cash savings.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman raised concerns about Kerala's economy and safety during a campaign event. She highlighted the Sabarimala gold loss, stating even God is not safe in the state. Sitharaman criticized the ruling LDF and opposition UDF for mismanaging the economy. She mentioned industries are declining and entrepreneurs face difficulties.

Pakistan's Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf issued a strong warning regarding maritime interests. He claimed the Pakistan Navy was prepared to sink India's aircraft carrier during a past conflict. The navy is acquiring advanced technology to protect national interests. Port activities in Pakistan have increased due to the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region.

Bengaijote village in Naxalbari, the origin of the Naxalite movement, is now witnessing a political transformation. Once dominated by Left ideology, the area has seen a strong Rightward shift. The BJP secured a significant victory in the 2021 Assembly polls.

Iran has built deep underground missile cities inside mountains to protect its weapons. These hidden bases use strong rock, tunnels and multiple exits to survive air strikes. Even after heavy bombing, some missiles and drones can still be launched. Experts say the underground network is difficult to destroy, which helps Iran keep its military capability during the ongoing conflict.

A new report reveals a significant number of candidates in the Kerala Assembly polls face criminal charges. Nearly 38 percent of contestants have declared criminal cases, with many facing serious accusations. Wealth also plays a major role, as 39 percent of candidates are crorepatis. This trend highlights concerns about criminal backgrounds and financial influence in elections.

Rory McIlroy achieved a career Grand Slam by winning the Masters. He now returns to Augusta National to defend his title. McIlroy has a deep understanding of the course. Despite recent mixed form, his past experiences at Augusta are crucial. He carries the weight of expectation as a champion. The Masters will test his greatness once more.

Adani Gas raised CNG prices by 1.5 per kg in Gujarat, while Torrent Gas increased rates by Rs 2.5 per kg in Rajasthan and other markets. Think Gas lifted prices by 2.5-4 per kg across north and south India.

India's government is actively managing the West Asia crisis. Over 3700 raids target LPG black marketing nationwide. Efforts ensure uninterrupted fuel and LPG supply. Citizens are urged to avoid panic buying and rely on official information. Measures are in place to safeguard Indian vessels and seafarers. Port operations remain normal across India.

Rajasthan Royals secured a six-run victory over Gujarat Titans in an Indian Premier League encounter. Rajasthan Royals posted 210 for six, with Dhruv Jurel scoring 75 and Yashasvi Jaiswal contributing 55. Gujarat Titans chased 211 but fell short, reaching 204 for eight. Sai Sudharsan scored 73 for Gujarat Titans. Ravi Bishnoi took four wickets for Rajasthan Royals.

Telangana High Court has set an April 13 deadline for the state government to appoint a full-time Director General of Police. The state has been without a full-time DGP since 2017. The UPSC has submitted a panel of three IPS officers for selection. The court expects the state to inform it of its decision on April 13.

Across the border in Pakistan, 44 people were killed following heavy rains in the last weeks, officials said. At least 32 people died in the northern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since March 25 and 12 in southwestern Balochistan since March 20, the provincial disaster management authorities said.

U.S. federal agents arrested the niece and grandniece of Qasem Soleimani after Secretary of State Marco Rubio revoked their lawful permanent resident status. The two, identified as Hamideh Soleimani Afshar and her daughter, are currently in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and face deportation. Officials allege Afshar showed outspoken support for Irans regime through social media activity.

The upcoming FIFA World Cup faces major hurdles. Many popular teams will not participate. Ticket prices have surged dramatically, making attendance unaffordable for many fans. Concerns are also raised about human rights and immigration risks for attendees. Despite these issues, the tournament is expected to generate record-breaking revenues.

West Asia War: India is actively securing fertilizer supplies from new global partners. This comes as conflicts in West Asia impact current shipments. New Delhi is in talks with countries like Russia, Indonesia, and Morocco. These efforts aim to ensure sufficient urea and phosphatic fertilizers for the upcoming planting season.

Maritime training must adapt to modern shipping's evolving needs. The industry is rapidly embracing decarbonisation, digitalisation, and automation. Academic institutions need to invest in simulators and update curricula. This ensures seafarers are prepared for next-generation ships and emerging technologies like green fuels. Seafarer safety in critical shipping lanes remains a top priority.

HDFC Bank has reported strong deposit growth, exceeding its assets under management expansion. This performance contrasts with the broader industry trend. The bank's current and savings account deposits also saw significant year-on-year growth. AU Small Finance Bank also experienced similar deposit growth outpacing its loan portfolio. This indicates a positive financial standing for these institutions.

States are rapidly expanding piped natural gas connections to homes. This push comes as a response to the current LPG shortage. Major cities across Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Odisha are seeing accelerated pipeline laying and new connection drives. Special camps are being set up to facilitate the shift.

Actor Piyush Mishra has opened up about a troubled phase in his marriage, admitting to extra-marital affairs and emotional detachment in the early years. He revealed that it took him nearly 1015 years to truly accept his role as a husband, while his wife Priya chose to stay despite everything, saying she would never leave him. Mishra credited her commitment and sacrifices for holding the marriage together. He also shared that years later, after introspection and practising Vipassana, he develope

The Election Commission of India has suspended four police officials in West Bengal. This action follows alleged law and order failures during a roadshow and nomination event attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The National Investigation Agency is also investigating a separate incident in Malda. The EC is expanding poll infrastructure to accommodate more voters across West Bengal.

Santa Ana winds are returning to Southern California, ushering in warmer temperatures for the weekend. Expect peak gusts of 35 to 55 mph, with some mountain areas facing up to 65 mph. Coastal areas will see highs in the upper 70s, while inland locations and parts of Orange County and Coachella Valley could reach the mid- to upper 80s.

Indian boxer Vishvanath Suresh has achieved a significant victory at the Asian Boxing Championships in Ulaanbaatar. He defeated Kazakhstan's reigning world champion and World No. 1, Sanzhar Tashkenbay, in the men's 50kg class. This win propels Suresh into the semifinals. Earlier, he secured a unanimous decision against Bekzat Ergeshov of Kyrgyzstan. Suresh is a rapidly emerging talent in Indian boxing.

Manchester City dominated Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals. Erling Haaland scored a brilliant hat-trick. The team secured a commanding 4-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium. This win propels Manchester City into the last four of the prestigious tournament. Other quarter-final matches are scheduled for later.

Voter lists in Malda's Sujapur and Mothabari constituencies show significant deletions. Many families now have only one or two members registered to vote. This has created widespread fear and uncertainty among residents. Political heat is low, replaced by anxiety over lost voter status. People are preparing to approach tribunals for appeals.

A young IIT graduate working at a major MNC has sparked an online discussion after sharing that his high-paying job involves little to no meaningful work, often leaving him to watch reels during office hours. He questioned whether AI is reducing learning opportunities for freshers by taking over basic tasks. While some called it a dream job, others warned it could harm long-term career growth, highlighting a growing divide in how early tech roles are evolving.

A laid-off professional looking for a new job shared how a promising interview opportunity unexpectedly fell through after the recruiter handling it lost his own job. The candidate was first asked to reschedule, and when the new date arrived, the recruiter did not show up. Later, the candidate discovered the recruiters email had been deactivated and his profile marked as open to work.

Trump gave Iran a short deadline, and the timing is close to market opening. This creates tension for investors. Crypto stayed calm but traders are alert. Reports of plane incidents and rising conflict add uncertainty. Experts say markets may move fast depending on what happens. Monday morning is important as stocks, oil, and crypto could react quickly.

Reports have emerged claiming that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has asked US Army Chief of Staff Randy George to retire immediately, according to CBS News citing sources. The report suggests he has not formally resigned, but an exit appears likely. Some sources raised concerns about alignment with broader defense plans under Donald Trumps strategic direction.

ETs roundup of the wackiest whispers in corporate corridors.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning to India. He stated that any future misadventures by India will be met with a strike in Kolkata. Asif claimed intelligence reports suggest India is planning a false flag operation. He made these remarks while speaking to reporters in Sialkot.

Former President Donald Trump highlighted a substantial decrease in America's trade deficit. He attributed this reduction, along with robust job creation, to his administration's economic policies. Trump also mentioned efforts against Iran. The March jobs report indicated 178,000 new positions, exceeding expectations. The unemployment rate saw a decline.

Tax filing mistakes can slow refunds and create problems for taxpayers. Experts warn people to check details like ID numbers, math, and bank information before submitting returns. Expired numbers and unsigned forms can also cause delays. Filing online and reviewing documents helps reduce errors. Using trusted tax help or software may improve accuracy and avoid refund issues during the busy tax season.

The African proverb People visit the rich with gifts, but they visit the poor with advice reflects how human behavior changes based on wealth and status. It suggests that wealthy individuals often receive material gifts, while poorer individuals are more likely to receive verbal guidance instead of tangible help. The saying highlights an imbalance in generosity and raises questions about fairness in social interactions.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited Jiribam, a district where communities are uniting for peace. He met with displaced persons from various communities, listening to their concerns. The Chief Minister assured support for rebuilding homes and improving the health sector. His visit aimed to foster trust and encourage the ongoing peace process in the region.

A 24-year-old earning 1 lakh a month sparked an online debate after sharing that his parents are pressuring him to buy a 8090 lakh flat. While he prefers to focus on savings and investments first, many internet users warned him about the risks of getting stuck in long-term EMIs, especially in an uncertain job market. Others, however, argued that buying property early can offer security and long-term value.

Donald Trump has requested $152 million in a White House budget proposal to reopen the former Alcatraz jail, aiming to transform it into a state-of-the-art secure prison facility. The funds would cover the first year of rebuilding costs for the penitentiary, which closed in 1963 and is now a popular tourist attraction.

India's Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal has called for greater self-reliance in the pharmaceutical sector. He wants the industry to produce 80-90% of its needs domestically. This move aims to reduce dependence on imported raw materials. India is already a major global player in pharmaceuticals. The focus is now on building resilience and expanding market presence.

Iran war: Russian news agencies cited Rosatom chief Alexei Likhachev as saying that developments near the plant were unfolding in line with the worst-case scenario.

Homeowners filing taxes should check deductions, credits, and deadlines before April 15. Some may qualify for solar benefits, mortgage interest deductions, and higher SALT limits. Retirement contributions and refund changes could also affect returns. Filing early may help avoid penalties. Understanding HOA rules, property tax claims, and extension options can help homeowners make better tax decisions this year.

A wave of online attention recently surrounded Jonathan, the worlds oldest known land animal, after a viral post triggered widespread discussion. The 194-year-old tortoise, who has lived through centuries of history, rapidly became a trending topic as people across the globe reacted emotionally to the circulating claims. The story spread rapidly across platforms, drawing responses from thousands of users and even reaching broader media coverage.