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The Economic Times

Economy / The Economic Times

No Pilot, No GPS, No Cloud: How this Indian drone startup reached 'Sam Altman-led' Y Combinator after Shark Tank India crash

Two years after their dramatic Shark Tank India pitch where their drone nearly crashed, Vecros founders Prem Sai and Rajashree Devta have made it to Y Combinator Startup School. The Andhra Pradesh-registered startup is building autonomous spatial AI drones for GPS-denied environments. Prem Sai recently shared the update on social media.

20 Apr 2026 3:55 pm
'K-pop and K-dramas are very popular in India': PM Narendra Modi announces India-Korea Friendship Festival from today

India and South Korea are strengthening ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Lee Jae-myung announced the India-Korea Friendship Festival. This event celebrates their ancient shared heritage and modern cultural exchange. A new Mumbai Korea Centre will also be established. This center will blend K-pop and Bollywood, fostering deeper cultural understanding between the two nations.

20 Apr 2026 3:55 pm
Days of Our Lives Star Patrick Muldoon dies at 57: Cause, net worth, career highlights and legacy

Following his death, tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and fans across the entertainment industry. Many remembered Patrick Muldoon for his warmth, charisma, and generosity.

20 Apr 2026 3:54 pm
Why are US stock market futures down today, and will Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq continue to drop or rise again? Wall Street futures, US stocks to watch, analysts insights and market outlook

Why are US stock market futures down today, and will Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq continue to drop or rise again? US stock futures fell after a strong rally as Iran tensions returned and oil prices jumped. Investors reduced risk positions while earnings season approaches. Energy shares gained while volatility increased. Analysts expect market swings in the near term as geopolitics, earnings, and economic outlook shape investor sentiment and trading decisions.

20 Apr 2026 3:53 pm
Archana Puran Singh reveals how Kapil Sharma Show stalled her four-decade-long acting career, says 'nobody is offering roles'

Archana Puran Singh Acting Career Stalled: Archana Puran Singh revealed her long stint on The Kapil Sharma Show brought fame but limited film roles due to tight schedules. The shift to Netflix's season-based format now offers her flexibility for new projects. Despite a four-decade career, she feels filmmakers still perceive her solely as a laughing personality, hoping recent work will change this.

20 Apr 2026 3:49 pm
Rajnath Singh promises Durga Squad for womens safety in Bengal if BJP wins

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced a 'Durga Squad' for women's safety if the Bharatiya Janata Party wins in West Bengal. He promised strict action against those troubling women and assured the rule of law. Singh stated the election is about fear versus trust and development versus corruption. He predicted a BJP victory and the end of darkness on May 4.

20 Apr 2026 3:48 pm
Elon Musk scorned shady loopholes, yet offshore tax tricks likely saved Tesla hundreds of millions

Tesla has reportedly saved over 400 million dollars on US taxes. This was achieved through a financial maneuver involving its units in the Netherlands and Singapore. These units posted 18 billion dollars in profits that were not taxed in those countries. This practice allowed Tesla to reduce its tax bill in the United States.

20 Apr 2026 3:40 pm
TCS harassment case: Accused linked assaults to not wearing burqa, says woman engineer

A woman engineer at TCS Nashik has detailed alleged harassment and religious coercion. She reported derogatory remarks about Hindu deities and inappropriate touching by colleagues. Police have registered nine FIRs and arrested eight individuals. One accused is still being traced. TCS has suspended the employees involved and initiated an internal probe.

20 Apr 2026 3:39 pm
US Federal Reserve nominee Kevin Warsh faces Senate test on monetary policy

Kevin Warsh faces a crucial Senate hearing for the Federal Reserve chief nomination. Lawmakers will question his economic ideas and monetary policy. Warsh, a former Fed governor, has been a vocal critic of the central bank. His nomination comes amid intense scrutiny of the Fed's independence and calls for significant changes to its operations.

20 Apr 2026 3:34 pm
Rashid Khan was offered Indian citizenship, but his reply is stealing attention. Here's what the Afghan cricketer said

Rashid Khan Indian Citizenship Offer: Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan reportedly rejected offers of citizenship and the chance to play for India and Australia. The book Rashid Khan: From Streets to Stardom reveals his unwavering commitment to representing his home country, Afghanistan, despite lucrative opportunities elsewhere.

20 Apr 2026 3:34 pm
MMRDA secures 216 acres in Raigad for Mumbai 3.0 project through participatory model

Mumbai 3.0 project is underway with MMRDA securing 216 acres in Raigad district. This marks a significant step in a new participatory development model. Landowners are offered various compensation options. The project aims to create a new economic hub with advanced infrastructure. It is expected to generate substantial employment and attract investment, shaping a new urban future for the region.

20 Apr 2026 3:25 pm
Fire at Rajasthan refinery site a day before PM Modis inauguration

A fire flared up at the Pachpadra Refinery-cum-Petrochemical Complex in Balotra, with emergency services reacting promptly to contain the situation. This alarming event takes place on the eve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned trip to Rajasthan, where he will unveil India's inaugural greenfield integrated refinery-petrochemical complex. This initiative is poised to revolutionize the energy sector in India.

20 Apr 2026 3:19 pm
Apple withholds data in India antitrust case, CCI sets final hearing

India's antitrust watchdog is moving quickly to decide penalties for Apple. The Competition Commission of India found Apple abused its dominant position in the iPhone app market. Apple has not provided requested financial data. The watchdog has set a final hearing for May 21. This signals a hardening stance against the US tech giant. Apple faces potential fines in India.

20 Apr 2026 3:11 pm
JNU: 5% supernumerary quota for teaching, non-teaching staff kids from 2026-27

Jawaharlal Nehru University has introduced a five per cent supernumerary quota for children of its teaching and non-teaching staff. This new provision will apply to all undergraduate and postgraduate courses starting from the upcoming academic session. The university will create additional seats to accommodate this quota, ensuring the existing seat matrix remains unaffected.

20 Apr 2026 3:10 pm
India's D2C growth powered by Tier 2, 3 cities with 66 per cent new orders in FY26

India's direct-to-consumer brands are seeing rapid expansion driven by smaller cities. Tier 2 and 3 cities will account for nearly 66 percent of new orders in FY26. This growth fuels a 33 percent rise in order volumes and a 32 percent increase in GMV. The D2C market is set to reach USD 60 billion by 2030.

20 Apr 2026 3:08 pm
SAEL begins operation of 600-MW solar power plant in Andhra Pradesh

SAEL Industries has started a 600-megawatt solar power plant in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. This plant will supply power to the national grid for 25 years. It uses over 12 lakh solar modules. The project will reduce carbon emissions significantly. This development adds to SAEL's growing operational capacity.

20 Apr 2026 3:08 pm
West Bengal Assembly Elections: TMC bastion under threat as BJP veteran Swapan Dasgupta takes on Debasish Kumar in Rashbehari

Kolkata's Rashbehari constituency faces a heated election battle. Trinamool Congress MLA Debasish Kumar is up against Bharatiya Janata Party's Swapan Dasgupta. The TMC holds the seat, but the BJP aims to win. Key issues include infrastructure development and welfare schemes. The election is scheduled for April 29. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.

20 Apr 2026 2:57 pm
Lyrid meteor shower visibility India date & time: When and where to watch shooting stars in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi and other cities

Lyrid meteor shower Tonight Time: Skywatchers have a chance to see the Lyrid meteor shower this week. Early mornings offer the best views due to clear skies and a favourable moon. Look towards the constellation Lyra, near the bright star Vega. Meteors appear to originate from Lyra but are best seen by scanning the wider sky.

20 Apr 2026 2:57 pm
ECI imposes 48-hour dry day restrictions in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal ahead of polling

In preparation for the 2026 Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has announced a ban on alcohol sales in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, introducing dry days leading up to polling and during vote counting. Authorities are mandated to enforce these restrictions rigorously, promoting a fairer and more tranquil voting atmosphere.

20 Apr 2026 2:54 pm
Court grants time to ED to file reply on Jacqueline's plea; ED calls it 'Vague'

Jacqueline Fernandes seeks to become an approver in the Rs 200 crore money laundering case involving Sukesh Chandrasekhar. The Enforcement Directorate requested more time to review her application, deeming it vague. The Patiala House Court has scheduled the next hearing for May 8. Fernandes claims she is ready to cooperate with the investigation.

20 Apr 2026 2:45 pm
Kerala Bhagyathara BT-50 lottery result out today (April 20, 2026); 1 crore prize winning number and full list here

Bhagyathara BT-50 Lottery Result (20-04-2026): Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Bhagyathara BT-50 weekly lottery today, April 20, 2026. The event saw the ticket holder of PL 561807 coming out as the winner of the grand first prize of 1 crore.

20 Apr 2026 2:44 pm
Rs 10 crore and Dal Roti formula: Chasing more will not change your life, reminds financial expert

A recent X post by Gurjot Ahluwalia argues that beyond a certain financial security, time, not money, becomes life's true currency. Once basic needs and comfort are met, additional wealth offers diminishing returns on daily quality of life, highlighting the importance of valuing time for health, relationships, and personal fulfillment over endless accumulation.

20 Apr 2026 2:39 pm
JEE Mains 2026 Session 2 Toppers List: Check all names of top scorers from this year and last year, and how to download results from jeemain.nta.nic.in

JEE Mains 2026 Session 2 toppers List: The National Testing Agency will soon release the JEE Main Session 2 Result 2026 on its official website. Candidates can check their scores and the list of toppers. The agency will also announce state, category, and gender-wise topper lists. Previous session toppers are also mentioned. Students can download their scorecards by logging in with their application number and password.

20 Apr 2026 2:38 pm
Indias truckers brace for first diesel price hike in four years

In the backdrop of impending elections, truck fleet operators across India are seeing storm clouds on the horizon with expected fuel rationing and a steep rise in diesel prices. The flare-up in the Middle East is sending shockwaves through global oil supplies, forcing state refiners to reconsider their strategies amid rising inflation.

20 Apr 2026 2:34 pm
'No fear now': Kashmir sees tourist return before Pahalgam attack anniversary

Visitors are returning to Kashmir, demonstrating renewed confidence in the region's safety. This comes as the first anniversary of a deadly terror attack approaches. Authorities have introduced a QR code system to enhance security and public trust. Analysts highlight the attack's impact on tourism and call for strong action against terrorism and its sponsors.

20 Apr 2026 2:33 pm
Iran executes two more opposition group members in latest crackdown: People's Mujahedin

Iran has executed two more members of the People's Mujahedin group. Authorities state they were hanged for spying for Israel. These hangings are part of a recent surge in executions of political prisoners. Rights groups warn of more executions to come. They urge a halt to all executions and release of prisoners in any talks with Iran.

20 Apr 2026 2:27 pm
Tamannaah Bhatia's trainer reveals how to make healthy Besan Chilla in 3 simple ways

Actress Tamannaah Bhatia's fitness habits are in the spotlight. Celebrity trainer Siddharth Singh has sparked a conversation about breakfast. He calls besan cheela the worst vegetarian breakfast and explained how it lacks sufficient protein for sustained energy. Read on to know how to make it healthier in three simple ways at home.

20 Apr 2026 2:21 pm
Nitin Nabin accuses TMC of betraying women over quota bill

BJP leader Nitin Nabin accused the Trinamool Congress of betraying women by opposing the central government's women's reservation bill. He stated that the TMC's stance on this issue contrasts with their alleged support for minority reservations. Nabin highlighted concerns about women's safety in West Bengal and criticized the state government's policies regarding infiltrators.

20 Apr 2026 2:08 pm
Tamil Nadu Election Date 2026: From polling time to counting day, heres full schedule

Tamil Nadu Assembly Election 2026 Date and Time: Tamil Nadu's Legislative Assembly elections are set for April 23, 2026, with vote counting on May 4. Over 5.6 crore voters will participate in a significant three-way contest. Polling will occur from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM across all constituencies.

20 Apr 2026 2:07 pm
Israel warns Lebanese civilians against returning to south

Israel's military is warning Lebanese civilians not to return to southern villages. The military claims Hezbollah is violating a recent ceasefire agreement. Displaced residents have started returning home since the truce began. Israel states its forces remain deployed defensively. Hezbollah officials have also cautioned residents about potential Israeli actions.

20 Apr 2026 2:07 pm
West Bengal polls: ECI cracks down on musclemen, 135 arrested ahead of Phase 1 voting

As West Bengal braces for electoral battles, state officials are implementing rigorous security strategies. With more than 135 arrests made to date, the focus is on ensuring a tranquil election process. The Election Commission is harnessing advanced AI surveillance technology and outfitting security personnel with bodycams.

20 Apr 2026 2:07 pm
US begins 'biggest ever' Philippines war games in thick of Mideast conflict

American, Philippine, and Japanese forces have commenced joint military exercises in the Philippines. The drills involve thousands of personnel and advanced weaponry. These war games are taking place with the Middle East conflict in the background. Tensions are also high in the South China Sea and near Taiwan.

20 Apr 2026 2:07 pm
Why B2B marketers need to think video first: key insights from the SaaS CMO Circle

In the latest episode of the SaaS CMO Circle podcast, top marketing thinkers from LinkedIn and Zoho reveal how B2B video content is engaging buyers and helping to close deals in ways that traditional static content cant. Traditional B2B marketing tactics revolve around content that buyers read. From product brochures and how-to guides through to case study PDFs, thought leadership blog posts, and detailed research reports, the core of B2B has involved exchanging written information for contact d

20 Apr 2026 2:04 pm
India, South Korea to upgrade trade pact, deepen tech and supply chain ties

India and South Korea will resume talks to upgrade their economic partnership agreement. The goal is to increase bilateral trade to 50 billion dollars by 2030. Both nations will also enhance cooperation in critical technologies and supply chains. An economic security dialogue will be established. Discussions will cover shipbuilding, steel, and sustainability. Industrial collaboration will expand through new agreements.

20 Apr 2026 2:01 pm
Rs 70,00,000 worth fake Mounjaro injections seized in Gurgaon; Police expose illegal weight-loss drug racket in NCR

Gurgaon Drug Racket: Authorities in Gurgaon have busted a major illegal pharmaceutical racket involving spurious Mounjaro KwikPen (tirzepatide injections) worth over Rs 70 lakh, with two men arrested after a joint operation by the Drugs Control Department and police intercepted a vehicle carrying suspected fake diabetes and weight-loss drugs stored in violation of safety norms. The raid near Super Mart-1 led to the recovery of multiple cartons of injections in different strengths, with officials

20 Apr 2026 1:59 pm
Inside Assams big contest: Sarmas dominance vs Gogois comeback bet

Assam voted in a crucial election. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's BJP faced a challenge from Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi. The outcome could reshape Congress's future in the Northeast. Sarma's leadership and BJP's organizational strength were key factors. Congress focused on governance reforms and economic revival. The results will influence opposition politics nationwide.

20 Apr 2026 1:55 pm
Iran says it is checking if Indian vessels were targeted in Strait of Hormuz firing incident

Reports have emerged suggesting that Iranian forces may have opened fire on Indian ships passing through the vital Strait of Hormuz. This unsettling occurrence coincided with increased activity among commercial fleets in the area. Furthermore, Iran is pointing fingers at the United States, alleging that Washington's maneuvers are not only obstructing diplomatic channels but also exacerbating conflict.

20 Apr 2026 1:53 pm
India's power transmission sector to see INR 9 trillion capex push by 2032: Report

India's T&D sector is poised for sustained growth, driven by an estimated INR 9 trillion capex through 2032. Despite temporary ordering slowdowns due to high capacity utilization and longer lead times for high-voltage transformers, a positive outlook remains. Global demand surges, particularly in the US and Europe, present significant export opportunities for Indian manufacturers.

20 Apr 2026 1:47 pm
From rejected Rs 4 cr job offer to Rs 570 cr startup: How this IIT founder from a poor background convinced parents to win big

An IIT-Kharagpur graduate rejected a 4.3 crore job and Stanford PhD to co-found Giga, an AI startup that recently raised $61 million. Despite the success, the company faces allegations of malpractices and misleading employees from a former worker, which Giga denies as an extortion attempt.

20 Apr 2026 1:47 pm
FII selling fuels trading spikes but clouds medium-term growth outlook for Groww

Groww reports strong profit and revenue growth. However, foreign investor selling and global tensions create a mixed market. This boosts short-term trading activity on the platform. But sustained foreign selling could slow new user growth and asset inflows in the medium term. The company manages these market dynamics.

20 Apr 2026 1:43 pm
Major 7.4-magnitude quake hits off Japan, tsunami observed

A powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.4 has shaken northeastern Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported the tremor off the coast. Tsunami warnings have been issued for areas including Iwate, Aomori, and Hokkaido prefectures. The quake's epicentre was in the Pacific Ocean. It was strong enough to make movement difficult and cause damage to walls.

20 Apr 2026 1:43 pm
BMW looking to double MINI sales in 2026, widening product portfolio, automaker's India chief says

MINI plans to double its sales in India this year. This ambitious goal will be achieved through a wider range of vehicles, local production, and expanding its retail network. The company is introducing new models and special editions. MINI is also increasing its presence in new cities beyond the metros.

20 Apr 2026 1:37 pm
Apple teases AI-powered Siri overhaul in WWDC 2026 logo

Apple's upcoming WWDC event artwork suggests a significant upgrade for Siri. The assistant is expected to gain a new look within the Dynamic Island. Users will see improved conversational abilities and the power to handle multiple requests in one command. This move aims to make Siri a more capable AI assistant, integrating deeper with third-party apps.

20 Apr 2026 1:36 pm
What really persuades B2B buyers to buy? SaaS CMO Circle offers some vital clues

At the SaaS CMO Circle, leading marketing thinkers from Adobe and LinkedIn shared new insights into how todays tech buyers feel about B2B purchase decisions, and how marketers can respond.

20 Apr 2026 1:35 pm
Star power meets style: Hrithik Roshan joins ONN as brand ambassador

Lux Industries has appointed Hrithik Roshan as the brand ambassador for its premium innerwear and thermal wear brand, ONN. This strategic move aims to enhance brand recall and reach younger, aspirational consumers in urban and emerging markets. The collaboration underscores Lux Industries' commitment to building aspirational brands that blend comfort, performance, and style.

20 Apr 2026 1:31 pm
World awaits fate of ceasefire after US seizes Iranian ship

Concerns over a ceasefire collapse grew as the U.S. seized an Iranian cargo ship, prompting Iran to vow retaliation and reject further peace talks. The incident jeopardizes efforts for regional peace, with Iran citing blockades and U.S. demands. Oil prices surged amid fears of continued Gulf traffic disruptions.

20 Apr 2026 1:30 pm
SC dismisses PIL seeking recognition of Netaji as 'National Son'

The Supreme Court has rejected a public interest plea. The petition sought to declare Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army responsible for India's independence. It also asked for Netaji to be named 'National Son'. The court refused to declare his birth anniversary and the INA's foundation day as national days.

20 Apr 2026 1:23 pm
MSME manufacturing sector expands in Jan-March period but growth moderates amid West Asia crisis: PHDCCI survey

India's MSME manufacturing sector continued to grow in early 2026. However, expansion slowed due to global issues, especially the West Asia crisis. This crisis caused longer shipping times and higher costs. Business activity saw new orders and production increase, but hiring remained steady. The outlook for the next quarter is positive but cautious. Policy support is vital for sustained growth.

20 Apr 2026 1:22 pm