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The Economic Times

Economy / The Economic Times

India US Interim Agreement framework to support MSMEs integration into global value chains: FM Sitharaman

India US trade deal: As part of the framework announced last night, both countries will reduce import duties on a number of goods to boost two-way trade.

7 Feb 2026 8:19 pm
Zero-duty entry to US for diamonds, coloured gems a 'turning point': says industry

India-US trade deal: India and the US on Saturday announced they have reached a framework for an interim trade agreement under which both sides will reduce import duties on a number of goods to boost two-way trade.

7 Feb 2026 8:16 pm
Domestic spirits makers seek fair play in India-US trade deal

Indian spirits makers want import duties to match new trade deals. They seek a fair market against foreign liquor. The industry faces disadvantages from high costs and licensing. They urge states to end concessions for imported drinks. This move aims to protect domestic producers from a double impact. Stricter measures against dumping are also demanded.

7 Feb 2026 8:08 pm
6070 gm of this saturated fat a day is 'an invitation to a cardiac event', warns Delhi cardiologist

A Delhi cardiologist has raised alarms about excessive ghee consumption in North Indian diets, warning it could significantly risk heart health. Daily intake, often reaching 60-70 grams, far exceeds the recommended saturated fat limit. This pattern, excluding other fat sources, may push individuals to consume over four times the safe daily saturated fat allowance, prompting an urgent call for moderation.

7 Feb 2026 8:01 pm
How much is Snoop Dogg making at the Winter Olympics? NBC salary stuns fans

Snoop Dogg Winter Olympics salary: Snoop Dogg returns as NBC's correspondent and Honorary Coach for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. His viral success in Paris, where he reportedly earned over $9 million, has led to his reappearance. His role aims to motivate Team USA athletes and entertain viewers, with his pay drawing significant public attention.

7 Feb 2026 7:56 pm
Pappu Yadav sent to two-day judicial custody, bail plea to be heard on Monday

Independent MP Pappu Yadav has been placed in judicial custody for two days. The court ordered his treatment at Patna Medical College and Hospital. Yadav was arrested on Friday night following a warrant related to a 1995 case. His bail plea will be heard on Monday. His lawyer claims a false case was filed.

7 Feb 2026 7:54 pm
US wines, spirits, dry fruits to enter India at lower or zero duty under trade pact

India-US trade deal: India and the US on Saturday announced that they have reached a framework for the first phase of the bilateral trade agreement under which both sides will reduce import duties on a number of goods to boost two-way trade.

7 Feb 2026 7:49 pm
Trump turns to US military leaders for diplomatic efforts on Iran, Ukraine

President Donald Trump is employing military commanders in key diplomatic roles. Admiral Brad Cooper is participating in talks concerning Iran's nuclear program in Oman. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is involved in negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war. This approach signals a shift in traditional foreign policy, potentially leveraging military expertise and the implicit threat of force to achieve diplomatic objectives.

7 Feb 2026 7:49 pm
Social Security payments February 2026: Who gets paid COLA-boosted Social Security checks this Wednesday, and why some beneficiaries are excluded from the February 11 payment

Social Security payments February 2026: Millions of Americans are watching their Social Security accounts this February. Payments begin February 11 for select retirees and SSDI recipients. Birth dates determine timing. Not everyone qualifies that day. SSI follows different rules. A 2.8% COLA boosts checks in 2026. The full SSA calendar reveals who gets paid, when, and why it matters now.

7 Feb 2026 7:47 pm
BJP-led NDA will form govt in Kerala in 2026: Nitin Nabin

Nitin Nabin, BJP national president, stated the party will win the Kerala Assembly elections. He highlighted central government aid to the state. Nabin criticized previous LDF-UDF governments for hindering growth. He promised development, empowerment of women, youth, and farmers, and a pro-business environment for a 'Vikasita Keralam'.

7 Feb 2026 7:32 pm
Bengaluru-based IIT graduate and marathon runner is the Managing Director of Anthropic India. Who is Irina Ghose?

Irina Ghose is now the Managing Director of Anthropic India. She brings a strong background in technology and business. Her experience includes leadership roles and a passion for marathon running. Ghose aims to expand Anthropic's AI presence in India. She will work with organizations and startups. This move marks a significant step for the AI company in the country.

7 Feb 2026 7:31 pm
Thiruvananthapuram airport achieves milestone of handling 4.5 lakh passengers in Jan 2026

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport achieved a historic milestone in January 2026. The airport handled its highest ever monthly passenger traffic. Daily average passenger traffic also crossed a significant mark. International and domestic passenger numbers showed robust growth. This reflects the airport's growing importance as a regional aviation gateway. TIAL is committed to enhancing infrastructure and services for seamless travel.

7 Feb 2026 7:06 pm
From Rs 14 LPA at his first job to accepting Rs 16 LPA, techie admits, I froze and didnt negotiate properly. What went wrong?

A young software engineer's struggle in the tough tech job market, marked by toxic workplaces and salary woes, has resonated online. After two job hops, he accepted a Rs 16 LPA offer with a lower fixed pay, feeling pressured by peers' success. Reddit users advised prioritizing culture and patient negotiation over quick fixes.

7 Feb 2026 7:04 pm
META stock price crashed but why? Is there any bigger threat looms for META Platforms Inc?

Equities of data analytics firms continued to come under selling pressure on concerns that they face an existential threat from powerful new AI models.

7 Feb 2026 6:54 pm
Piyush Goyal says, India's exports of USD 44 bn to US to get zero reciprocal tariffs under trade pact

India and the US will sign a trade pact by mid-March. Around USD 44 billion of Indian exports will enter the US duty-free. This agreement will boost trade and benefit Indian industries. It aims to achieve USD 500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. The pact opens opportunities for MSMEs, farmers, and fishermen.

7 Feb 2026 6:48 pm
Alia Bhatt's Alpha not heading for a theatrical release? Here's what we know

Yash Raj Films' new spy thriller Alpha, featuring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, is reportedly being considered for a direct OTT release. Originally planned for a theatrical debut, the film's strategy may change. The movie's release date has been pushed to April 17, 2026, to accommodate visual effects work. Bobby Deol also stars in the project.

7 Feb 2026 6:42 pm
India, Russia share good relationship based on trust and mutual respect: Consul General Fetisov

Russia welcomes cooperation with any country, according to Consul General Ivan Fetisov. He highlighted the strong, trust-based relationship between Russia and India. Nuclear energy cooperation, including Small Modular Reactors, presents significant opportunities. Fetisov also mentioned discussions on infrastructure projects with the Chief Minister. Such events foster important dialogue and strengthen bilateral ties.

7 Feb 2026 6:35 pm
RSS not against anyone, does not seek power: Mohan Bhagwat

Speaking at a public gathering here, Bhagwat referred to various streams of thought that emerged during the freedom movement, represented by reformers and leaders including Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Vivekananda and Dayananda Saraswati.

7 Feb 2026 6:34 pm
IRS tax refunds: Five points to know to receive bigger tax refunds

People who are 65 and older are eligible for a tax deduction of up to $6,000 for individuals and $12,000 for married couples, as long as both spouses qualify.

7 Feb 2026 6:33 pm
Getting $2,800 a month in Social Security? Ways to reduce the taxes you owe

Social Security taxes are rising fast, catching retirees with $2,800 monthly benefits off guard. Nearly half already pay federal taxes. Frozen IRS thresholds, IRA withdrawals, and RMDs are driving higher tax exposure. Smart income timing, Roth strategies, and withdrawal planning can sharply reduce taxes. Heres how retirees can legally protect more of their benefits.

7 Feb 2026 6:29 pm
Zero-duty access for 800-1,600 cc US bikes under trade pact; to benefit Harley-Davidson: Official

India will offer zero-duty access to American motorcycle manufacturers for bikes with engines of 800cc and above. This move is part of an interim trade pact with the US, expected by mid-March. The agreement also includes duty concessions on US cars. The US will reciprocate by removing tariffs on some Indian auto parts.

7 Feb 2026 6:27 pm
Free chicken wings on Super Bowl Sunday - how to get Applebees, Buffalo Wild Wings & Dennys deals and cheap fast-food meals

Super Bowl Sunday free chicken wings deals: Super Bowl Sunday is approaching. Several popular restaurants are offering deals on chicken wings. Applebees gives free boneless wings with online orders. Buffalo Wild Wings rewards members can earn free wings. Denny's offers a boneless wings party pack. These deals make game-day food more affordable for fans.

7 Feb 2026 6:25 pm
Tamil actor once drove auto rickshaws for a living. Today, his net worth will make your jaws drop

Bose Venkat, once an auto-rickshaw driver in Chennai, achieved fame and fortune in cinema. His life took a dramatic turn after a chance encounter with a former Doordarshan director. This meeting led to acting training and a successful career. Venkat later ventured into filmmaking. His story highlights perseverance and unexpected opportunities.

7 Feb 2026 6:01 pm
India-US interim trade pact reflects clear intent to strengthen bilateral manufacturing, supply-chain partnerships: ACMA

The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India, ACMA, has welcomed the Interim Trade Agreement framework between India and the US. This agreement signals a strong commitment to boost bilateral trade and manufacturing cooperation. Key measures include preferential tariff rates for automotive parts and removal of certain tariffs.

7 Feb 2026 6:01 pm
You can't be playing the lead after certain age: Actor Imran Khan on why Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan should adapt with age

Bollywood stars navigate career shifts as they age. Imran Khan notes the natural progression for actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan. While audiences love them, lead roles may no longer fit. Recent box office trends show varied success for these veterans. Imran Khan, from a film family, also experienced career ups and downs.

7 Feb 2026 5:44 pm
Why Nvidia shares just had their best day since April? Nvidia (NVDA) stock jumped 8.2%, reclaiming a $4.5 trillion market capitalization

Nvidia stock jumped 8.2% to $185.40 as Big Tech confirmed a $650 billion AI spending spree for 2026. Amazon is leading the charge with a $200 billion budget for data centers. This massive capital injection proves the AI infrastructure buildout is accelerating. Investors are buying Nvidia to secure the Blackwell chips powering this growth. High demand and record spending suggest the AI market expansion is just beginning.

7 Feb 2026 5:39 pm
Happy Propose Day 2026 Valentine Week: Top 5 destinations for an unforgettable proposal in India

Happy propose day 2026: Planning a proposal in India? Udaipur's romantic lakes, Goa's serene beaches, Agra's iconic Taj Mahal, Nainital's scenic hills, and Lonavala's lush landscapes offer unforgettable backdrops. These destinations blend natural beauty with magical settings, perfect for creating cherished memories as you pop the question. Discover the ideal spot to make your commitment truly special.

7 Feb 2026 5:38 pm
Reliance to expand real estate presence with 140-acre township in Jhajjar

Reliance MET City is expanding its real estate footprint. The company plans to launch residential plots and group housing in its Jhajjar township. This integrated smart city is developing 140 acres for residential and industrial use. The project aims to offer a 'walk to work' environment. Plots are available for families and investors.

7 Feb 2026 5:35 pm
Over 2,500 cyber fraudsters face action under Delhi Police's 'Operation CyHawk 3.0'

Delhi Police launched a massive crackdown, 'Operation CyHawk 3.0', across multiple states. Over 2,500 individuals faced action in a drive against cyber fraud networks. Cases involving more than Rs 627 crore were linked. The operation targeted mule account operators and facilitators. Significant seizures of digital devices, cash, and precious metals were made.

7 Feb 2026 5:28 pm
Propose Day 2026 Wishes: best 50+ heartfelt messages and quotes to express your love

Happy propose day 2026: Propose Day 2026 offers a special occasion to convey deep feelings. The article provides a collection of heartfelt wishes, messages, and quotes. These expressions aim to celebrate existing bonds and confess new love. They highlight the significance of a loved one in making life brighter and complete. The focus is on cherishing moments and looking forward to a shared future.

7 Feb 2026 5:24 pm
Strengthening the India-US medicines partnership important: IPA

The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance welcomed an interim trade agreement between India and the US, emphasizing that medicine security is crucial for national security. The pact aims to boost bilateral trade by reducing import duties on various goods, including generics, and offers Indian MedTech exporters a competitive edge in the US market.

7 Feb 2026 5:21 pm
His father earned his living with a small ice-cream cart. His son shares how the cart eventually became a food empire

Cream Centre's journey began not with a restaurant, but a humble ice cream cart on Chowpatty, driven by a father's dream. Owner Sanjiv Chona, who took over at 19, expanded the business, introducing global flavours like nachos and sizzling brownies.

7 Feb 2026 5:04 pm
India-US trade pact will open multifold opportunities: Boeing

Boeing sees significant opportunities from the new India-US trade deal. The agreement reduces import duties on goods like aircraft parts. This move is expected to boost industrial growth and national security for both nations. Indian suppliers will benefit from better market access. Global manufacturers already source billions in aerospace components from India, a share poised to grow.

7 Feb 2026 4:52 pm
Boeing is major aircraft parts buyer from India; excited from trade pact: Piyush Goyal

Boeing plans to make India its largest foreign base for aircraft parts. This follows an interim trade agreement where the US removed tariffs on certain Indian aircraft components. Both Boeing and Airbus are already significant buyers of Indian aircraft parts. This partnership signals growing excitement for India-US collaboration in the aerospace sector.

7 Feb 2026 4:50 pm
Ankur Warikoo and his 13-year-old son learned a powerful lesson while climbing Bhutan's Tiger's Nest

Ankur Warikoo and his son Vidur faced a tough climb to Bhutan's Tiger's Nest Monastery. Vidur wanted to quit midway. Ankur encouraged him to focus on the next step. This approach helped them push through exhaustion and doubt. They reached the top together. The experience taught them patience and determination. It showed that progress comes from taking small steps forward.

7 Feb 2026 4:41 pm
Trust is Indias strongest currency: Modi says in Malaysia as he hails trade pacts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised India's growing trade deals with global partners. He stated trust is India's strongest currency. Modi showcased India's rapid economic and infrastructure growth. He also highlighted strong people-to-people ties with Malaysia. India's digital payments platform UPI will soon be operational in Malaysia.

7 Feb 2026 4:32 pm
Vaishnaw: India in close talks with US on electronics, IP

India and the US have finalized an interim trade agreement. This deal focuses on electronics and intellectual property. It aims to boost trade in technology products like GPUs. Data centers are expected to see significant growth. This will create new opportunities for Indian startups and service providers. Investments in this sector are projected to exceed 200 billion dollars.

7 Feb 2026 3:54 pm
India-US interim trade pact framework sends strong signal of confidence to global investors: Industry

India and the US have reached a framework for an interim trade agreement, set to boost bilateral trade by reducing import duties on various goods. This move is seen by India Inc as a strong signal of confidence to global investors, enhancing competitiveness and supply chain resilience.

7 Feb 2026 3:51 pm
Ghaziabad triple suicide: What police say about phones, distress and sisters deaths

Three sisters died by suicide in Ghaziabad. Police investigation reveals their father took away their phones due to obsession with Korean culture. The girls could not play online games or connect with friends. Their father later sold the phones. The forensic team is examining a recovered mobile phone and a suicide note. The case is being investigated from various angles.

7 Feb 2026 3:23 pm
Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil OTT release date confirmed: When and where to watch Jiiva's Tamil blockbuster comedy movie online

The Tamil comedy drama Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil is now gearing up for its digital debut. The film enjoyed a successful theatrical run, surprising many with its box office performance. Audiences appreciated its simple story and realistic village setting. The movie will be available for streaming from next week. Read on!

7 Feb 2026 2:57 pm
Propose Day 2026 history & significance: How this day became the ultimate celebration of love and commitment

Propose Day 2026, observed on February 8th, marks the second day of Valentine's Week, encouraging heartfelt expressions of love and commitment. This cultural phenomenon, amplified by social media, offers a chance to strengthen bonds, confess feelings, or make relationships official through sincere and thoughtful gestures.

7 Feb 2026 2:52 pm
What India gave the US to seal a $500 billion interim trade deal

India has granted the US selective market access under a new trade agreement, allowing duty-free entry for products like animal feed, certain wines, and computer components. This calibrated approach aims to boost trade and economic growth while carefully protecting domestic industries and ensuring benefits for its citizens.

7 Feb 2026 2:47 pm
Happy Propose Day 2026: Top 5 places in Delhi where you can visit with your partner

Delhi presents diverse romantic settings for Propose Day, celebrated annually on February 8. Couples can choose from historic monuments like Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal, serene natural spots like Jahapanah City Forest and Lodhi Garden, or vibrant locales like Hauz Khas Village and Garden of Five Senses for their special proposal.

7 Feb 2026 2:44 pm
Drishyam star Ishita Dutta reveals how she lost 15 kg in less than 2 months: Theres no magic, no secret

Actress Ishita Dutta revealed her significant weight loss post-pregnancy was not a planned effort but a consequence of severe health complications. Facing bed rest, gallbladder stones, and delayed surgery due to pregnancy and breastfeeding, she endured immense physical and emotional strain. Her rapid weight reduction stemmed from prolonged illness and recovery, not quick fixes.

7 Feb 2026 2:43 pm
Bengaluru CA finished work on time, left office at 6 pm. Her boss called her not a team player. Here's why

A Bengaluru chartered accountant, Meenal Goel, faced criticism for leaving work on time despite completing her tasks. Her performance review flagged her as 'not a team player' because she departed at 6 pm while colleagues stayed until late. This incident reveals a workplace culture that values visible presence over actual productivity.

7 Feb 2026 2:34 pm
Quote of the day by Mark Twain: 'There are 2 types of people, those who accomplish things, and those who claim to do so. The first group is less crowded'

Mark Twain, a celebrated American writer and humorist, is recognized as the father of American literature. His enduring works, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, continue to resonate. Twain's quote highlights the distinction between genuine accomplishment and mere claims, emphasizing that real impact stems from action and discipline.

7 Feb 2026 2:08 pm