The Economic Times

The US is urging Bolivia to expel suspected Iranian spies and label the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, Hezbollah, and Hamas as terrorist groups. This diplomatic push aims to counter Iran's influence in Latin America, building on recent actions in Ecuador and Argentina. Bolivia's new centrist government, seeking to mend ties with Washington, is now a key focus.

Afghanistan is reeling from severe weather. Snow and heavy rain have claimed 61 lives over the past three days. The disaster management authority reported 110 injuries and extensive damage to homes. Hundreds of families are affected. A key highway remains closed, and aid is being provided to stranded travelers. Authorities urge caution on snowy roads.

Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that teaches us to focus on our own actions and thoughts while accepting external circumstances beyond our control. Founded by Zeno of Citium and later developed by thinkers such as Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, it emphasises virtue, emotional understanding, and resilience. Even today, Stoicism offers timeless guidance for navigating lifes uncertainties and finding inner peace.

Noida Authority has a new CEO, Krishna Karunesh, appointed after the tragic death of a techie in a construction pit. Yuvraj Mehta's demise in an unmarked pit, amidst dense fog, has ignited resident protests and calls for accountability. This incident highlights critical issues in urban planning and road safety, prompting a national discussion on construction zone hazards.

Hindi general entertainment channels are shifting towards reality programming to attract male viewers and advertisers, moving beyond traditional female-dominated daily soaps. This strategic change aims to capitalize on changing viewing habits and the growing popularity of non-fiction genres across platforms, offering better engagement and monetization opportunities.

Two wagons of a goods train derailed near Maksi railway station in Shajapur district of Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. The incident occurred around 1 pm on the Ujjain and Guna rail section. Fortunately, train movement on the route was not affected. Senior railway officials are currently at the site overseeing restoration efforts.

Russia launched a major missile strike on Ukraine's cities Kyiv and Kharkiv. This happened while peace talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the US were taking place in Abu Dhabi. The attack targeted energy infrastructure, causing power outages for many. Ukraine's president had urged Russia to show readiness to end the war. Russia insists on Ukraine yielding its eastern Donbas region.

Union Budget 2026: Parliament's Budget Session commences January 28 with President Draupadi Murmu's address. A crucial all-party meeting is scheduled for January 27. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget on February 1, a Sunday. The session will run until April 2, with a break from February 13 to March 9.

India located over 70 fugitives abroad in 2024-25, the highest in a decade, while 203 foreign fugitives were detected in India. The nation also saw 27 fugitives return from abroad. The CBI, acting as India's Interpol nodal point, issued various notices and processed thousands of citizenship renunciation applications.

Realtors' apex body CREDAI has urged the government to launch a national rental housing mission in the upcoming Budget. The proposal includes tax incentives for developers and tenants. CREDAI also seeks revised affordable housing definitions to reflect current market costs. Other industry players are calling for industry status for real estate, single-window clearances for GCCs, and incentives for green buildings.

Uttar Pradesh is poised to become the engine of a developed India by 2047. Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the state's transformation from a 'BIMARU' state to a 'breakthrough state'. He asserted that by the nation's 100th Independence anniversary, Uttar Pradesh will be fully developed. This progress is attributed to the combined efforts of the central and state governments.

A Faridabad father allegedly beat his four-year-old daughter to death for not writing numbers correctly. Krishna Jaiswal was arrested after his wife filed a complaint. The child, Vanshika, was reportedly struck with a rolling pin and slammed on the floor. Her seven-year-old brother revealed the truth to their mother.

Delhi's Patiala House Court on Saturday allowed Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh alias Engineer Rashid to attend the upcoming parliament budget session in custody. Baramulla MP sought an interim bail or custody parole to attend the Parliament Session scheduled to commence from January 28 till April 2.

Eight high-potential Indian startups will showcase innovative agri-food and agri-tech solutions at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, aligning with the government's 'Farm to Foreign' vision. APEDA's BHARATI Pavilion will highlight export-ready ventures, while a Culinary Area will feature live demonstrations of Indian cuisine, underscoring India's rich food heritage and diverse ingredients.

A 70-foot steel bridge, weighing over 10 tonnes and built four decades ago in Chhattisgarh's Korba city, was stolen overnight. Police have identified 15 individuals involved in the theft, with five arrested so far. The accused confessed to dismantling the bridge using gas cutters to sell the iron as scrap.

Union Budget 2026: India's Budget needs to boost real estate, a key growth driver. Proposals include tax benefits for Global Capability Centres and affordable housing. The budget also seeks to support the data centre sector and enhance Real Estate Investment Trusts. These measures will strengthen India's economic future and urban development.

A suicide bombing at a wedding in Pakistan's Dera Ismail Khan district has killed seven people. The attack targeted members of a peace committee. The Pakistani Taliban has previously labeled such members as traitors. This incident highlights Pakistan's ongoing struggle with increasing militant violence. The Pakistani government has accused Afghanistan of harboring militants, a charge Kabul denies.

Delhi's commuters face grave danger from unsecured construction sites, with uncovered pits and broken barricades posing a constant threat. A recent fatality in Noida underscores the alarming reality of poor safety compliance. Heaps of soil, waterlogged ditches, and inadequate signage are common, turning roads into hazards, especially at night and during rain.

This Republic Day parade showcases unique animal soldiers, including Bactrian camels and Zanskar ponies. New weapon systems like the S-400 and Akash missile systems will be on display. A European Union contingent will march for the first time. Women officers will lead contingents and command tableaux. The event highlights India's military strength and indigenous capabilities.

Tired of the same old lentils and chickpeas? Discover seven underrated plant-based protein powerhouses that pack serious nutritional punch. From ancient grains to fermented legumes, these sources deliver muscle-building amino acids while keeping your meals interesting and sustainable.

Cleanthes, a former boxer from Assos, journeyed to Athens seeking wisdom. He supported himself through manual labor while studying philosophy. Cleanthes became a prominent Stoic leader, emphasizing self-control and simple living. His teachings stressed that true virtue comes from sustained moral strength. He lived a long life, leaving a legacy of discipline and ethical conviction.

A man was discovered deceased inside a Kitchener home following a reported stabbing on Friday, January 23, 2026. Waterloo Regional Police are investigating the incident as a homicide and have taken a man into custody. As the investigation continues, there will be an increased police presence in the Garden Path Place area.

India is progressing towards fully automated Income Tax Return filing. Significant steps have already been taken to simplify the process. Further enhancements are needed in data reporting and tax laws. While complete automation is achievable for simple returns, complex cases will retain existing frameworks. The tax system is evolving for a better taxpayer experience.

Your gut's best friends are waiting on your plate. Discover seven everyday fibre-packed foods that transform digestion, boost energy, and keep your system running like clockwork.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut predicts a reunion of NCP factions. He states Ajit Pawar will rejoin the Maha Vikas Aghadi, citing family ties. Raut points to the joint contest on the 'clock' symbol in upcoming local elections as evidence of unity. He also suggests Eknath Shinde is unhappy with the BJP regarding the BMC mayor post.

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen expressed deep concern over West Bengal's electoral roll revision process, citing undue haste and inadequate time for voters. He warned this could jeopardize democratic participation, particularly with upcoming assembly elections. Sen highlighted the challenges faced by rural citizens in providing documentation, fearing exclusion for the underprivileged and poor.

INOXGFL Group has committed Rs 17,000 crore to renewable energy projects. MoUs were signed with Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Kerala governments. Investments will focus on solar power, manufacturing, and testing facilities. This move highlights India's growing role in renewable energy and INOXGFL's commitment to domestic manufacturing and a sustainable energy future.

DJ Fat Tony, who performed at Brooklyn Beckham's wedding, has opened up about the 'awkward' first dance moment. He explained that singer Marc Anthony's invitation to Victoria Beckham onto the stage, coupled with a compliment, shifted the focus and claimed that it led the bride, Nicola Peltz, to leave the room in tears. Read on!

A 5.1 magnitude earthquake shook Sindirgi in Balikesir province, western Turkiye early today. Turkiye's disaster management authority confirmed the tremor occurred at a depth of over 11 kilometers. Fortunately, no human or material losses have been recorded so far. Field survey operations are underway to assess the situation. This follows a similar earthquake last year.

Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has fined the BJP Rs 19.7 lakh and filed a police case. This action follows the installation of illegal flex boards on footpaths for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. The boards caused public inconvenience. The Corporation secretary filed a complaint leading to a police case against the BJP district president.

Shakira, a Colombian star, has achieved global fame with her music and dance. She is a multi-award winner and has sold millions of albums. Beyond her music career, Shakira is dedicated to philanthropy. She founded the Barefoot Foundation to aid children in Colombia. Shakira also serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated potential removal of 25% extra tariff on India if its Russian oil purchases continue to decline, calling the outcome a huge success. This comes as the US Congress debates a bill that could impose a 500% duty on countries buying Russian oil, while India maintains its focus on securing affordable energy for its citizens.

Apple's iPhone 18 Pro lineup is rumored to feature a new under-display area replacing the Dynamic Island and an advanced A20 Pro chip built on a 2nm process. Leaks also suggest a potential split launch strategy, with Pro models arriving in September 2026 and standard models in early 2027. Advanced camera upgrades, including a mechanical iris, are also anticipated.

The Election Commission faces challenges in meeting a Supreme Court deadline to publish voter lists with discrepancies by Saturday. Booth Level Officers have not received the necessary software, making it difficult to process and display the data for approximately 1.26 crore voters. This logistical hurdle raises uncertainty about complying with the court's directive.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stated he has always upheld party stances in Parliament. His sole principled disagreement was regarding Operation Sindhoor. Tharoor explained his views on the Pahalgam incident, advocating for a targeted response. He emphasized that national interests supersede political differences. Tharoor's comments come amid reports of party friction.

Iran faces its most severe crackdown since the 1979 revolution. Protests over currency collapse turned violent, leading to widespread damage and a rising death toll. Authorities have cut internet access, obscuring the full extent of the unrest. Human rights groups report unlawful killings and the threat of mass executions. The situation remains tense as the world watches.

An out-of-control bushfire in south-west Victoria has reached emergency level. Residents are ordered to take shelter as the blaze threatens homes and lives. Authorities state it is too late to leave safely. A wind change is expected, shifting the fire's direction. A total fire ban is in effect across multiple Victorian regions. This occurs as Victoria experiences a prolonged heatwave.

Roshan Meka's second film, Champion, released on December 25, 2025, and is now heading for a digital debut. Despite a reported Rs 40 crore budget and a unique sports-historical narrative, the film struggled theatrically. Its early OTT release aims to recover costs and reach a wider audience, with Roshan Meka and debutante Anaswara Rajan receiving appreciation for their performances. Read on!

Elton John is a music icon with over 300 million records sold globally. His career spans decades, marked by chart dominance and a fearless approach to life. Born Reginald Dwight, his early musical genius was evident. A chance meeting led to a lifelong songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin. His breakthrough albums and legendary collaborations cemented his superstar status.

Hollywood icon Bruce Willis, known for his powerful action roles and memorable performances, has left behind more than just great films. One of his well-known quotes, You cant undo the past, but you can certainly not repeat it, shows the importance of learning from lifes experiences and growing from them. Read on!

A US warship made a historic port call at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base, docking near Chinese vessels. This marks the first US naval visit since China's renovations, which have raised strategic concerns for Washington in the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia maintains the base is open to all international partners.

Adani Ports will undertake the second phase development of Vizhinjam seaport. This expansion, costing around Rs 16,000 crore, aims to establish Vizhinjam as the Indian subcontinent's largest transhipment hub. The project will significantly increase the port's capacity and introduce advanced automation. The inauguration is scheduled for Saturday evening.

East Coast Railway has achieved a significant milestone, earning Rs 23,000 crore in freight revenue. This was accomplished in just 294 days, a full 27 days ahead of last year's performance. The zone also emerged as the top performer in freight loading across Indian Railways. This success highlights strong operational efficiency and sustained growth.

Arunachal Pradesh is becoming a major power hub and a key player in India's startup scene. Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted the state's progress at Startup Arunachal Day 2026. Initiatives like APIIP are supporting young entrepreneurs. The government is doubling seed funding and intake capacity for upcoming cohorts. Arunachal Pradesh aims to leverage its potential for national development.

Nabrangpur district in Odisha is now free of Naxal activity. This follows the surrender of nine Maoists, including seven women, in neighbouring Chhattisgarh. These individuals carried a bounty of Rs 47 lakh. Their operations spanned Nabrangpur and Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district. This development aligns with the Centre's goal to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism nationwide.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Saturday accused Governor R N Ravi of undermining the dignity of his office by refusing to read out the customary address at the start of the Assembly session.