The Economic Times

Former Tunisian Prime Minister Ali Larayedh received a 24-year prison sentence. He was convicted of helping Tunisian jihadists travel to Syria. His party claims the case is politically motivated. This follows President Kais Saied's consolidation of power. Larayedh served as prime minister between 2013 and 2014. He denies the charges and plans to appeal.

The United States has authorised the departure of some embassy personnel and their families from Israel due to safety risks, the U.S. embassy said in a post on X on Friday.

SBI Clerk Mains Result 2025 pdf download: The State Bank of India has announced the SBI Clerk Mains Result 2025-26. Candidates who took the exam on November 21, 2025, can now check the PDF for their roll numbers. Successful candidates will proceed to the Local Language Proficiency Test. This test is mandatory for final selection. There is no interview.

Jammu and Kashmir speedster Auqib Nabi delivered a stellar five-wicket performance in the Ranji Trophy final. This achievement has put his team in a strong position for their first-ever title. Nabi has also become the leading wicket-taker this season. Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has lauded Nabi's potential for the national team, suggesting an England tour as a fitting debut.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav voiced strong support for former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after the Rouse Avenue Court discharged Kejriwal and others in the Delhi Excise Policy case, ruling there was no criminal intent and failing to substantiate conspiracy claims. Yadav also criticized the BJP and religious figures for alleged involvement.

The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk has urged Iran to halt all executions. This call comes after a death sentence was issued for a protestor. Reports indicate at least eight people, including two children, have received death sentences. Another thirty individuals are also at risk of execution. The UN official expressed deep concern over these developments.

A Delhi court discharged Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia in the excise policy case. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera criticized the BJP, calling them a 'shape-shifter'. He alleged the BJP uses agencies as campaign tools and governance through vendetta. Manish Sisodia called it a victory against a conspiracy. The CBI plans to challenge the discharge in the Delhi High Court.

Global K-pop superstars BTS are set to release their new album, Arirang, on March 20, followed by the Arirang World Tour commencing April 9. Fans can also experience the tour live in cinemas across over 75 countries starting in April. The comeback is further amplified by Netflix specials, including a live-streamed event and a documentary detailing the album's creation.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde affirmed the government's dedication to elevating Marathi. The language will be promoted for culture, economy, and employment. Policy steps include creating encyclopedias and increasing Marathi usage in government. Efforts aim to make Marathi a business language and generate income. The government seeks global recognition for Marathi through conferences and translations.

Tata Sons has deferred a decision on Natarajan Chandrasekarans third term as chairman, despite a prior unanimous Tata Trusts resolution backing his extension. Chairman Noel Tata reportedly raised concerns over losses, capital expenditure and a potential listing. The move highlights internal differences within the Tata Groups holding structure.

Kolkata earthquake today: Massive tremors were felt in West Bengal's capital Kolkata today and residents were seen rushing out of their offices and buildings. However, amid this, netizens were debating whether Bangladesh is secretly testing nuclear power with another one asking what is wrong with our neighbouring country. As the news of the Kolkata earthquake continues to circulate on social media, the internet remains flooded with reactions, memes, and on-ground visuals.

Thought of the day by James T. Kirk highlights the quote, A meeting is an event where minutes are taken and hours are wasted. This article explains Thought of the day today, Thought of the day today meaning, and Thought of the day by James T. Kirk relevance in modern work life and leadership.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has approved the internal reservation bill for Scheduled Castes, a move that will enable the state to fill over 56,000 vacant government posts. The bill's assent follows its passage by both houses of the Karnataka Legislature, clearing the path for much-needed recruitment.

Crocs is strengthening its manufacturing in India. The footwear brand sees India as a key hub for its global supply chain diversification. Despite past tariff challenges, the company has expanded its factory presence. This move aims to serve both export markets and the growing Indian consumer base. India is now a top focus market for Crocs' retail expansion.

Rashid Naseem, a fugitive wanted in an investment fraud case, has been arrested in the UAE. He is the promoter of Shine City Group. Naseem was declared an outlaw under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act. The Enforcement Directorate had initiated a money laundering case against him. Funds worth Rs 800-1,000 crore were allegedly collected through fraudulent schemes.

India's electric two-wheeler sector sees production scale rise due to the auto PLI scheme. However, this has shifted focus to domestic market share, not export readiness. Non-PLI manufacturers face market contraction. The scheme's cost advantage benefits approved companies, potentially marginalizing innovation-led players and risking market share loss to global competitors.

A Danish intern's six-month transformation into a dosa enthusiast in Bengaluru has gone viral. Initially hesitant about spice, he ended his stay confidently ordering a ghee pudi masala dosa, spicy, showcasing a delightful cultural adaptation. The video highlights how shared culinary experiences can foster quick connections.

Indian banks are seeing a rise in personal loan applications from affluent savers who prefer to keep investments intact. This trend, driven by convenience and financial strategy, sees borrowers using credit for immediate needs like home renovations and travel, rather than liquidating assets. Lenders are adapting with faster approvals and attractive rates for financially stable customers.

India is launching Mission Samudra Manthan, a deepwater exploration drive, and expanding strategic petroleum reserves to bolster energy security amidst geopolitical anxieties. The plan aims to increase domestic hydrocarbon production and augment reserves to a 90-day buffer, reducing import dependence and mitigating global oil price shocks.

Quote of the day by Richard Branson highlights the message Work until your bank account looks like a phone number. This quote of the day today meaning focuses on effort, income growth, and persistence. The quote of the day by Richard Branson relevance connects to his journey in business, risk, and success.

More than six lakh farmers in Maharashtra await benefits from the 2017 farm loan waiver scheme. The state government is working to provide this relief. Under other schemes, millions of farmers have already received loan waivers and incentive subsidies. A committee is studying farm loan liabilities and will submit recommendations.

Maruti Suzuki India has partnered with the Tamil Nadu government to commission seven automated driving test tracks. This initiative completes the automation of all ten driving test tracks in the state. These tracks use high-definition cameras and advanced analytics for a fair and efficient driver licensing process.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 journey faces a critical juncture. Their semi-final hopes now depend on the England versus New Zealand match. Pakistan needs a specific result to stay in contention. A win for New Zealand will eliminate Pakistan. The team awaits the outcome to determine their path forward.

Artificial intelligence poses headwinds for India's software sector, but former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan says AI will drive an adjustment rather than spell disaster. He calls for rapid reskilling and agile adaptation. While routine, low-value tasks are vulnerable, AI also opens new opportunities and business models. India's cost advantage and skilled workforce remain core strengths.

Actress Emma Watson inspires with her message of self-acceptance. She urges everyone to define themselves by their true selves, not by limitations or what others perceive. This approach fosters freedom and inclusivity. Watson's advocacy for women's and transgender rights, along with her work in ethical fashion, highlights her commitment to these ideals. Her film roles also explore themes of self-discovery.

The Supreme Court has dismissed SpiceJet's appeal, ordering the airline to pay Rs 1 lakh to the advocate association within six weeks. While a larger sum remains due, the apex court directed this initial deposit. The court remarked on the unending nature of litigation.

Karnataka is championing the AVGC-XR sector, focusing on AI as a creative enhancer, not a replacement. The state is committed to protecting artists' rights and ensuring fair pay. Initiatives are underway to expand digital creative hubs beyond Bengaluru, fostering talent across Karnataka.

The Assam government will ask the Gauhati High Court for a fast-track court to speed up the Zubeen Garg death case. Garg's wife welcomed the move, seeking strict punishment for those accused. The singer died last year in Singapore. A Special Investigation Team filed a charge-sheet naming seven accused. The family wants the case expedited to ensure justice.

IIFL Home Finance has secured a significant $300 million loan from the Asian Development Bank. This funding will be used to provide affordable housing loans to low-income families, especially women. The initiative aims to address India's housing shortage and support homeownership aspirations. A portion of the funds will also go towards green-certified affordable homes.

Apple growers from Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand will protest in Delhi next month to oppose a proposed duty concession on US apples under a trade pact that would allow duty-free imports from the United States. They warn the move could flood Indian markets and harm domestic farmers. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha has pledged support for the protest.

Ticket bookings for 'The Kerala Story 2-Goes Beyond' continue despite a 15-day stay ordered by the Kerala High Court. Petitioners informed the court that sales are ongoing as the matter is reviewed. The court had paused the release earlier over concerns of potential communal disharmony. The producer has appealed, keeping screenings in play.

Kolkata experienced significant tremors on Friday following a magnitude 5.4 earthquake originating in Bangladesh. The seismic event occurred at a depth of 35 kilometers. While official magnitude readings for Kolkata are unconfirmed, residents reported feeling strong shaking, prompting concern and immediate attention.

Virosh wedding: Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda tied the knot in Udaipur on February 26. Vijay Deverakonda's jewellery included Oddiyanam, Kasu mala, Kadukkan, Kolusu, long haram. The different and stunning jewellery opted by the Liger actor has sparked a buzz online with many users praising him for his royal look.

India and Maldives are deepening their strategic partnership. Discussions focused on enhancing defense and diplomatic cooperation. Both nations reviewed regional security dynamics. Maldives highlighted strong bilateral ties and collaboration on sustainable development. India remains a reliable partner for technology and knowledge transfer. Maritime security cooperation was also reinforced.

Pedro Pascal, a Chilean actor, has achieved global fame through consistent work. His career highlights the power of showing up and putting in the effort. He gained recognition in Game of Thrones, Narcos, The Mandalorian, and The Last of Us. Read on to know more about him.

India plans a significant reduction in thermal coal imports for its power plants. The government is urging power producers to blend more domestic coal, aiming for a cut of at least 15 million tons this year. This move supports increased domestic production and aims to reduce reliance on foreign supplies. While challenges exist, authorities assure improved quality of local coal.

Samsung is re-evaluating its super-thin smartphone strategy due to lower-than-expected sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge. The company is also considering the future of its expensive TriFold device, while a wider single-folding Galaxy Fold is confirmed for summer. Additionally, Samsung is developing a next-generation S-Pen stylus and has introduced an innovative privacy display on the S26 Ultra.

Hyatt Hotels plans a significant expansion in India, aiming to quintuple its presence within five years. This ambitious growth strategy is driven by a projected surge in domestic travel and increasing consumer spending. The company currently operates 55 hotels and sees strong market potential.

Rob Rausch girlfriend: Love Island alum Rob Rausch confirmed he is off the market, revealing he's been dating someone new for two months. While Rausch has kept his girlfriend's identity private, speculation online suggests she may be an esthetician from Kansas City. He recently denied any romantic connection with Maura Higgins.

India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated the proposed India-US trade deal will be rebalanced if circumstances change. New Delhi will protect its economic interests as US tariff signals evolve. Discussions are ongoing. India remains confident in its export growth despite global trade headwinds. Sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy are protected in the deal.

Daisy Shah's journey in the film industry began behind the camera. She worked as an assistant choreographer before venturing into acting. Shah once declined a role offered by Salman Khan in his film Bodyguard. She felt the character did not showcase her strengths. Later, Khan offered her a lead role in Jai Ho, which she accepted. Read on!

The Election Commission is preparing for Tamil Nadu's assembly polls. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced measures for fair elections. Voter rolls are being revised to include all eligible voters. VVPAT counting will be mandatory. Postal ballots will be counted before EVMs. All polling stations will have basic amenities. The law and order situation is satisfactory.

Salman Khan's co-actor Daisy Shah has come out in support of Palaash Muchhal after his wedding with Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana was called off. Daisy, who made her debut with Salman Khan in Jai Ho, called Palaash a very good person and also revealed how she developed a strong bond with Palak Muchhal and her family. Palash Muchhal and Smriti Mandhana were scheduled to get married last year, but the wedding was called off.

Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal has announced jobs for 12 roles in his new startup, Temple. But along with the tech skills he has announced very important fitness requirements for all the roles. This unusual hiring reflects the company's focus on building high-performance tech for elite athletes, demanding physical discipline from its team.

Rolling Loud Australia has been cancelled for March 2026, with organizers blaming local promoters Primuse Entertainment for failing to meet payment obligations. They have also confirmed that ticket holders are entitled to a full refund. This marks the second cancellation for the festival's return to Australia after a previous indefinite postponement.

Veteran politician O Panneerselvam's (OPS) political journey has had a bold turn with him formally joining the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. He stood beside Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at the party headquarters in Chennai. This move marks a significant political realignment in Tamil Nadu. Panneerselvam cited AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami's leadership as dictatorial. He stated the DMK is working to save the Dravidian Movement.