The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
JioHotstar launches signal-led commerce advertising, an industry-first to engage high-intent consumers based on purchase signals, not just viewing habits. Quick commerce platform Instamart is the inaugural partner, leveraging this data-led approach to bridge content discovery with seamless purchasing during the IPL season.
Mango season is here, bringing joy and questions for diabetics. Celebrity nutritionist Luke Coutinho offers guidance. He explains that mangoes contain mangiferin, which may help manage blood sugar. Pairing mangoes with nuts or yogurt can slow sugar absorption. Portion size, quantity, and timing are key. Building metabolic fitness through lifestyle changes is crucial for better tolerance.
Electric mobility brand Youdha is aggressively expanding its footprint by establishing over 200 retail outlets across India by year-end. This strategic move aims to bolster its presence in the burgeoning L5 passenger electric three-wheeler segment, catering to the increasing demand for last-mile mobility solutions nationwide.
ReaRCo Private Limited has acquired KV Developers, bringing relief to nearly 400 homebuyers in Greater Noida. The company secured Rs 195 crore from the SWAMIH Fund to finish the stalled project. Construction is underway on five towers, with possession expected by year-end. Dues to financial institutions and the development authority have been cleared.
Amit Kumar Dubey left a lucrative tech career to manage his home full-time, prioritizing his wife's well-being and aspirations. His journey, shared online, highlights his dedication to family and household management, challenging societal norms and redefining traditional gender roles with unwavering commitment.
The high-pitched campaign for West Bengal's first phase of assembly elections concluded Tuesday, with the BJP and TMC clashing over electoral rolls and voter demographics. Over 3.60 crore electors will vote on April 23 across 152 constituencies, with extensive security measures in place, including a record deployment of central paramilitary forces.
France ANTS cyberattack 2026: France's Agence nationale des titres scuriss platform, vital for official documents, suffered a cyberattack on April 15, exposing personal data like names, emails, and birth dates. While sensitive documents were unaffected, users face increased phishing risks. An investigation is underway, with authorities filing a criminal complaint.
The Reserve Bank of India is enhancing digital fraud prevention. Cross-border recurring electronic payments via cards, prepaid instruments, and UPI are now under E-mandate rules. Customers can opt-out of transactions or mandates. Limits are set for recurring payments. Pre-transaction notifications are mandatory for most debits. These rules aim to protect customers and ensure secure electronic transactions across borders.
US-Iran war news: United States forces have intercepted a vessel carrying a shipment from China to Iran. President Donald Trump stated the cargo was a gift intended for Iran. This comes as Iran seeks to replenish its military supplies during a ceasefire. Trump expressed surprise, noting a prior assurance from China's President Xi Jinping against such deliveries. The incident highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Pakistan Navy has successfully test-fired its indigenously developed Taimoor air-launched cruise missile. This demonstration showcased a powerful precision strike capability. The missile executed its mission with exceptional accuracy.
In Kochi, Kerala, a unique caf offers a cool escape without air conditioning. Fress Trees Garden & Caf uses terracotta pots and recycled water for evaporative cooling. Dense greenery and water features further lower temperatures. This innovative space demonstrates sustainable design, proving comfort can be achieved naturally. It's a green retreat redefining relaxation in the heat.
Tariff refunds 2026 are finally rolling out. Over $166 billion in tariff refunds is now open for claims. More than 330,000 U.S. businesses paid duties on 53 million shipments. Refund processing has started. Most payments may arrive within 60 to 90 days. But consumers may not see relief yet. Companies are covering past losses first. High import costs had already pushed prices up. Now new tariffs and rising oil prices are adding pressure again. Strong demand is keeping prices steady.
The Mexican proverb Its not enough to learn how to ride, you must also learn how to fall highlights the importance of resilience in life. While people often focus on achieving success, this timeless lesson reminds us that setbacks are inevitable and equally valuable for success. The Mexican proverb of the day encourages a change in perspective, where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
America is prepared for military engagement in West Asia. President Donald Trump stated this readiness while negotiations are ongoing. He believes the United States holds a strong negotiating position. The President indicated that the other side has no alternative but to engage in talks. This stance comes after significant strategic and military advancements by Washington.
Ankur Warikoo suggests being single for an extended period offers significant advantages in love. Individuals gain clarity on their relationship expectations and develop a strong sense of self-worth. They learn to manage external pressures and make choices aligned with their personal needs. This self-reliance makes them better equipped to navigate relationship dynamics and offer more meaningful connections.
India is advocating for increased representation of Global South nations within the permanent seats of the UN Security Council. Recent discussions also tackled the need for a more equitable international financial framework. India's envoy engaged with UN leaders to deliberate on peacekeeping initiatives and the importance of multilateral approaches.
Nepal's government is changing how its employees are paid. Salaries will now be given every two weeks instead of monthly. This move aims to increase spending and help the economy. The Finance Ministry has ordered the Financial Comptroller General Office to prepare for the change. While technically possible, legal adjustments might be needed.
Avicii's song 'The Nights' encourages living a life worth remembering. The late Swedish DJ, Tim Bergling, shared this message through his music. His song's lyrics, inspired by his father, remind listeners that life is finite. Avicii's own impactful life and music created 'nights that never die' for many. His career was marked by global success and personal struggles.
KG Fee Structure: A viral post detailing a 2.25 lakh annual fee for Senior KG has ignited a fierce debate over the skyrocketing costs of pre-primary education in India. Shared by a software developer on X, the breakdown reveals hefty tuition and admission charges, leading many to question if early schooling has become a luxury only the elite can afford.
Akshaya Tritiya 2026 saw tier-2 and tier-3 cities lead jewellery sales growth. Prepaid transactions dominated purchases. Consumers favored lightweight gold jewelry, balancing cost and aspiration. Digital-first brands gained prominence. Beauty emerged as a top category. UPI and financing options facilitated purchases. This signals a lasting change in Indian festive shopping.
Quote of the day by Thomas J. Watson Sr: The visionary behind IBM's global success, Thomas J. Watson Sr., advised that failure isn't an endpoint but a crucial stepping stone, offering invaluable lessons for growth and innovation. Embracing setbacks fuels resilience and ultimately paves the way for greater achievements.
India and Singapore are collaborating on a roadmap for digital corridors and green shipping infrastructure. This initiative aligns with global decarbonisation efforts in the maritime sector. Details regarding investment, fuel demand, and facilities are being finalized. The partnership leverages India's green energy resources and Singapore's maritime hub status. This collaboration aims to develop new opportunities for both nations.
Routine parking disputes in Delhi are escalating into violence, with recent incidents including a fatal argument and shootings. Experts attribute this trend to declining tolerance levels and a 'my space, my rules' mentality, where perceived invasions of personal space trigger disproportionate reactions and ego-driven conflicts.
India's renewable power generation reached a record high in 2025. Solar and wind power led this surge, setting new individual records. This growth led to a decline in coal generation. However, coal still remains the primary source of electricity in India. This trend highlights a significant shift in the country's energy landscape.
Eva Longoria received a $50 million philanthropic award from Jeff Bezos, offering her the freedom to support causes close to her heart. While the funding is significant, Longoria emphasizes a deeper message: impactful change is not limited to the wealthy. Through her foundation and advocacy work, she continues to promote education, entrepreneurship, and community support. Her perspective challenges the idea that only large donations matter, encouraging individuals everywhere to contribute in mea
Why are gold and silver prices down now, and will gold hit $5,000 or drop to $4,500 and silver touch $90 or fall below $70? Gold and silver declined as the dollar gained strength and investors tracked US-Iran peace talk signals and Federal Reserve policy expectations. Inflation concerns, interest rates, and oil supply expectations shaped market sentiment. Analysts say price direction now depends on geopolitics, the dollar trend, and interest rate outlook in the coming months.
Nasa's Curiosity rover has discovered chemicals on Mars that are essential for life's origin. These findings suggest the Martian surface can preserve molecules indicating ancient life. Scientists found nitrogen-bearing molecules and benzothiophene, a substance from meteorites. This discovery offers hope for finding signs of past life on the Red Planet.
Congress seeks to revive its fortunes in Malda for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. The party is leveraging the enduring legacy of A.B.A. Ghani Khan Choudhury. Mausam Benazir Noor's return to the Congress is a key part of this strategy. The district faces a triangular contest. Ghani Khan Choudhury's influence remains significant in the region.
UNH stock jumps on strong Q1 earnings: UnitedHealth Group delivered a decisive surprise on April 21, 2026. UnitedHealth stock surged nearly 7% on April 21, 2026, after UnitedHealth Group posted strong Q1 earnings. UNH reported $7.23 EPS and $111.7 billion revenue, both beating Wall Street estimates. The key shift came from cost control. Medical cost ratio fell to 83.9%, signaling improving margins. UnitedHealth also raised full-year EPS guidance above $18.25, strengthening confidence. AI remains
Swiggy's Instamart experienced a massive jump in demand for gold and silver on Akshaya Tritiya. Urban shoppers embraced quick commerce for auspicious purchases, opting for smaller gold denominations. Silver saw high-value transactions, with carts even combining precious metals with groceries. This highlights a new trend in festive shopping.
In fiscal year 2027, the outlook for palm oil production across the globe appears precarious. Major exporting nations are intensifying their biodiesel initiatives, stripping away palm oil for local energy applications. This trend, paired with the potential El Nino effects on Indian rainfall patterns and fluctuating global political tensions, is likely to limit the availability of exportable palm oil.
Moody's has lowered India's FY27 growth forecast to 6% due to weaker private consumption and industrial activity, driven by higher energy prices from the Iran war. Elevated energy costs are expected to widen the trade deficit and increase fiscal pressures, though government infrastructure spending and strong forex reserves offer some support.
Recent Strait of Hormuz tensions reveal India's deep dependence on imported oil. Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal stresses India is under-explored, not resource-poor. He advocates for faster exploration and investment, suggesting India could hold vast untapped hydrocarbon potential. Agarwal believes technology and global partnerships are key to reducing import reliance and securing India's energy future.
UltraTech Cement has achieved a significant milestone, crossing 200 million tonnes per annum of installed cement manufacturing capacity in India. This expansion positions the company as the world's largest cement producer outside China. The company's capacity has grown rapidly, adding the next 100 MTPA in under seven years. Future plans include further expansion to over 240 MTPA.
Bajaj Auto has updated the Pulsar NS400Z with a new 350cc engine, aligning with industry trends driven by GST benefits. This move, following similar updates from KTM and Triumph, aims to make performance motorcycles more accessible. The revised 349cc engine offers slightly reduced power but maintains the bike's existing features and pricing.
Krem Chympe, a hidden gem in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills, captivates with its natural beauty. This destination is known for its spectacular scenery and a unique no-plastic policy. Local vendors use bamboo vessels for serving food and beverages. Visitors can explore India's fifth-longest cave, enjoy waterfalls, and walk forest trails. The best time to visit is October to April.
Nippon India Mutual Fund has launched 'Har Ghar Investor,' an awareness campaign to boost retail investor participation and promote disciplined investing. The initiative aims to encourage at least one household member to invest in mutual funds, addressing a significant gap in the market.
The giveaway aligns with the launch of Dunkins spring menu, which includes a mix of new and returning items aimed at tapping seasonal demand. Highlights include banana-flavoured beverages and the return of the brands value-driven $6 meal deal.
India's Army has restated its commitment to combating terrorism. This comes on the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack. The Army stated that crossing humanity's boundaries elicits a decisive response. India launched a military operation last year in response to the attack. Military leaders emphasize continued preparedness.
Bengaluru Temperature: Bengaluru is experiencing a summer unlike any before. Temperatures are soaring, pushing residents to find innovative cooling solutions. Some are booking hotel rooms just for air conditioning. Household items like crayons are melting indoors, highlighting the extreme heat. This shift marks a significant change for the city once known for its pleasant weather. Northern districts face even harsher conditions.
Nestle India achieved its best quarterly results in ten years. This strong performance was fueled by significant volume increases across its products. The company saw robust growth in its e-commerce and beverage segments. Increased advertising spending also played a key role in driving sales. Nestle India maintained healthy profit margins through efficient operations and strategic investments.
Why are oil and gas prices down today, and will Brent, US WTI crude futures, Dutch and British gas rates drop further or rise again? Oil and gas markets moved lower as traders reacted to expected US-Iran talks, warmer weather forecasts, and shifting supply risks. Brent and WTI crude reversed earlier gains while European gas fell on weaker demand. Investors now watch the Strait of Hormuz, supply disruptions, and inventory data to assess whether prices will fall further or rise again soon.
In response to the challenges posed by renewed hostilities affecting maritime trade, Indian public sector insurers have unveiled an innovative maritime risk-sharing pool. This strategic initiative aims to support sea trade to conflict-stricken areas, stepping in where international insurers have retreated.
The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) is expected to announce ICSE (Class 10) and ISC (Class 12) results this week. Students can check their scorecards online via official websites and DigiLocker. A viral Reddit post about tomorrow's declaration is unconfirmed; students should rely on official updates.
Spiritual teacher Sadhguru explains that the feeling of isolation and helplessness during difficult times stems from a psychological illusion of being in opposition to the universe. He emphasizes that true yoga signifies union, not just physical postures, and that our interconnectedness with existence is fundamental.
Basketball legend Kobe Bryant shared his strategy for overcoming fear. He believed in accepting emotions instead of fighting them. Bryant would question his fears, breaking them down to understand their root. This method helped him maintain mental clarity under pressure. His insights offer valuable lessons for navigating challenges in sports and life.
A Mumbaiker's last ride on a Mumbai local train before moving for work became a cherished memory. Sohaib Ansari shared a video documenting his journey. He formed strong bonds with fellow commuters over time. These daily interactions created a sense of belonging. The friendships developed organically. His final ride was marked by quiet goodbyes.
Milk procurement processing and supply across the country have remained uninterrupted amid the ongoing West Asia crisis. Price of milk and milk products are stable. No supply disruptions have occurred in the market and payments to dairy farmers have continued throughout the crisis period, said Rustagi during an inter-ministerial briefing.

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