The Economic Times

Kerala weather: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of rainfall and thunderstorms in Kerala and its districts. Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Wayanad, Kollam and other districts of the southern state are likely to receive showers, the IMD has said in its forecast. Kerala is likely to see rainfall for the next few days.

Mumbai Pune Expressway toll return: Motorists stuck in a 33-hour traffic jam on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway will receive a full refund of 5.16 crore. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation will automatically credit FASTag accounts for tolls collected after a gas tanker accident halted traffic. This decision offers relief and demonstrates FASTag system accountability during emergencies.

Days after a shirtless protest at Bharat Mandapam, Uday Bhanu Chib, chief of the Indian Youth Congress, was arrested, marking the sixth detention in the case. Activists allegedly entered the AI Impact Summit using QR codes and revealed slogan-printed T-shirts targeting the government and the India-US trade deal. The BJP demanded an apology from Rahul Gandhi, while Priyank Kharge called the protest ill-timed but flagged separate controversies.

Garena Free Fire Max players can get free items using redeem codes. These codes are 12 characters long and expire quickly. Players must use them fast to claim rewards. The article provides codes for February 24, 2026. To redeem, visit the official Garena website, log in, and enter the code. Rewards will be credited to your account.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has allocated an initial 50 companies of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) to Tamil Nadu. This proactive security measure is in preparation for the 2026 state assembly elections, with the CAPF expected to be inducted on March 10, 2026, for area domination and confidence-building.

Palau is set to get its first Open RAN network. This historic move will bring secure 4G and 5G connectivity nationwide. Three US companies will help build the network. The Quad partnership is providing USD $20 million for this project. This initiative aims to boost digital infrastructure and create new commercial opportunities.

India and Canada are boosting security cooperation. Discussions between National Security Advisors have led to an action plan. This includes tackling fentanyl smuggling, organised crime, and cyber threats. Liaison officers will be established to improve communication.

India next match T20 World Cup: India will face Zimbabwe in a crucial ICC Men's T20 World Cup Super 8 match on February 26 in Chennai. A win is vital for India to advance towards the semifinals, while Zimbabwe aims to cause an upset. The game is expected to heavily feature spinners at the Chepauk stadium.

Chris Baghsarian search update: Human remains believed to be those of kidnapped grandfather Chris Baghsarian were found near a Sydney golf club. The 85-year-old was abducted from his home on February 13 in a suspected case of mistaken identity, with authorities believing he was targeted due to links to the Alameddine crime family.

Chinas commerce ministry imposed export controls on 20 Japanese entities, including Mitsubishi Corporation, and added 20 more, such as Subaru Corporation, to a watch list over alleged military ties. Beijing cited national security concerns, saying the measures target dual-use items and not normal trade, amid rising tensions between the two countries.

George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair, was an English writer known for his political insight. His works like Animal Farm and Nineteen Eighty-Four critique totalitarianism. Orwell's concepts like Big Brother remain influential. His quote highlights that true liberty means speaking uncomfortable truths, even if unpopular. This underscores his legacy as a key 20th-century political writer.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit India, Australia and Japan to deepen trade ties and cut reliance on the US amid rising tariff tensions with President Donald Trump. The trip includes talks on trade, defense, AI and clean energy, and comes as Canada seeks to double its non-US exports despite strained ties with India.

Several new South Indian films and web series are arriving on OTT platforms this week. Audiences can watch a mix of true crime stories, emotional family dramas, and psychological thrillers. The releases include the Tamil series Thadayam and the Malayalam drama Secret Stories: Roslin. Telugu titles like Sri Chidambaram Garu and the suspense thriller D/O Prasad Rao Kanabadutaledhu are also streaming.

Rain in Telangana today: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded an orange alert for Hyderabad today, warning of rainfall along with thunderstorms and surface winds. The IMD has also issued an alert for thunderstorms for 17 districts of Telangana on Tuesday. Sangareddy, Suryapet, Khammam, Rangareddy are also likely to receive rainfall today.

Iran faces U.S. military pressure but refuses to yield on its nuclear program and weapons. Experts believe this standoff makes conflict almost inevitable. Iran's leaders prioritize ideology and sovereignty over immediate survival. Talks are ongoing, but a compromise remains elusive. The situation highlights a significant perception gap between the two nations.

Impignorate is a rare English word that means to give something valuable as security to borrow money. The word comes from the old Latin language and has been used for many years. People usually use it when talking about pawn shops or loans. It simply describes pledging an item until the money is paid back.

American country singer Charley Crockett has cancelled his entire Canadian tour after being denied entry into the country twice due to a 2016 felony conviction for marijuana distribution. Border officials in Vancouver and Kelowna refused him entry, prompting the cancellation to avoid jeopardizing future travel. Crockett apologized to fans and promised to return soon.

Govind Namdev reveals the hidden hierarchy on Indian film sets. He explains how pay scales, vanity vans, and even food are often segregated based on an actor's market value. The actor shares a positive experience on the Oh My God! set, where Akshay Kumar ensured equal treatment for all. Read on!

India is actively pursuing stronger economic ties with Canada and the United Kingdom. Discussions are underway for comprehensive economic partnership agreements. These agreements aim to significantly boost bilateral trade and investment. Regular engagements are planned to build sustained momentum in these crucial partnerships. New avenues for collaboration are expected to unfold, benefiting both nations.

U.S. airlines plan to add flights Tuesday after a powerful winter storm disrupted operations across the Northeast, causing over 8,000 cancellations and delays. Carriers including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines aim to resume services as conditions improve. Cancellation rates are expected to fall from 19% Monday to 7% Tuesday, though recovery efforts continue amid lingering weather challenges.

Global firm FedEx has sued for a refund of tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. The U.S. Supreme Court recently declared these tariffs illegal. This move is expected to trigger many lawsuits seeking billions in refunds. Trade attorneys anticipate a wave of claims following the court's decision. The process for recovering these funds is still being determined.

Donald Trump is expected to host the traditional lunch on Tuesday with anchors from the five main networks: NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox and CNN. Officials said Trump also invited guests from new media outlets.

President Donald Trump denied reports that top US general Dan Caine warned against striking Iran, insisting the US would easily win any war. Media outlets reported concerns over casualties and prolonged conflict, but Trump dismissed them as false. While threatening military action if nuclear talks fail, he said he prefers a deal. Further US-Iran negotiations are scheduled this week.

Mexico's army has killed drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho. His death triggered widespread violence across the country. Roadblocks and fires erupted as cartel fighters retaliated. Over 70 people died in the operation and its aftermath. Security forces continue their battle with cartel gunmen. Many fear further violence as the nation remains on edge.

The US administration is preparing new national security investigations that could allow President Donald Trump to impose fresh tariffs after the Supreme Court struck down his country-specific emergency levies last week.

FedEx has filed a case to get back tariff money from the U.S. government after a court ruling against Trumps trade policy. The decision has also encouraged many big companies to demand refunds. The case may affect billions of dollars already collected. The situation has created uncertainty about future tariffs and how the government will handle the money.

A US judge has stopped the Justice Department from releasing a prosecutor's report on Donald Trump's classified documents case. The judge ruled that releasing the report would be unfair to Trump and his associates. The case involved allegations of illegally storing national defense documents. The judge also questioned the special counsel's appointment.

Gold, seen as a safe store of value during economic and geopolitical uncertainty, also tends to perform well when interest rates are low.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has instructed banks to halt the mis-selling of financial products such as insurance and to refocus on their primary role of taking deposits and extending credit. At the same time, the Commerce Ministry is reviewing how the latest US tariff revisions could affect Indias trade flows and broader economy.

Spearheading this growth is Air India, which under a $400 million cabin retrofit programme is doubling the number of premium seats on its flights. In the last one month, the Tata Group airline unveiled a brand new Boeing 787 Dreamliner jet and a plush lounge at its main hub at Delhi airport which features a sleeper suite for passengers on long layover.

The Reserve Bank of India is closely monitoring a 590 crore fraud case linked to IDFC First Bank, with Governor Sanjay Malhotra stressing that it does not pose a systemic risk to the banking sector. The RBI is preparing updated projections for retail inflation and is actively managing liquidity in the financial system.

U.S Stock Market today: On Wall Street, big losses hit companies under suspicion of getting undercut by AI-powered rivals. Investors have been sharply and suddenly punishing stocks of such companies recently.

Celebrity doctor Peter Attia stepped down from his new role at CBS News after his past messages with Jeffrey Epstein were revealed in government files. The messages created backlash and led to his apology and resignation. Attia says he did nothing illegal and had no role in Epsteins crimes. The controversy also made him leave another company position.

Love Is Blind Season 10 Episodes 10 and 11 release time, schedule, what to expect and how to watch is confirmed for February 25, 2026, on Netflix. Six couples enter the wedding phase. The episodes show ceremonies, relationship decisions, and possible breakups. Global streaming timings and viewing details are now available for audiences.

Sean Connery was a very famous actor from Scotland who became a global star after playing James Bond in movies. He started from a poor background, did many small jobs, and slowly entered acting. His Bond films made him popular worldwide. Later, he acted in many big movies, won major awards, and became one of the most respected actors.

Mortgage rates have dropped below 6%, making home loans cheaper for buyers. Lower rates can reduce monthly payments and bring more people back to the housing market. However, home prices remain high and supply is still limited. Experts say rates may move slowly, so buyers should not wait too long expecting perfect conditions in the housing market.

The Voice Season 29 release time, judges and how to watch is confirmed. The show premiered February 23, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET on NBC. Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, and Adam Levine returned as coaches. Episodes stream next day on Peacock. The season includes Triple Turn, Super Steal, and All-Star Competition format changes.

IBM stock price dropped sharply after an AI company launched a tool to update old COBOL computer systems faster. This news also affected other tech consulting firms that earn money from legacy system upgrades. The new AI can reduce time, cost, and human effort needed to understand old code, showing how artificial intelligence is changing traditional tech service businesses.

Quote of the Day: Bob Dylan's powerful words highlight a timeless human tendency. People often choose convenience over conviction, leading to regret. This observation is central to Dylan's enduring legacy as a keen observer of life. His career itself often defied expectations, showcasing a commitment to his own path. The quote invites introspection without judgment.

Quote of the day by Harrison Ford: Hollywood legend Harrison Ford's words encourage embracing your unique journey. He stresses the importance of self-direction, urging individuals to follow their own path. Ford, known for iconic roles in Star Wars and Indiana Jones, shares wisdom gained from a celebrated career.

A big AI fight has started after Anthropic accused some Chinese tech companies of secretly using its AI system to learn and improve their own tools. The issue is about data copying, fake accounts, and a method called distillation. This case shows how fast the global AI race is growing and why security worries are increasing.

Akasa Air made history by operating the first flight from Guwahati's new airport terminal on February 22, 2026. The airline's inaugural flight from Mumbai landed in Guwahati, marking a significant step for its Northeast operations. This new facility promises a more efficient and comfortable travel experience for passengers.

European officials sought clarity after Donald Trump announced a 15% global import tariff, prompting the European Parliament to pause ratification of the US-EU trade deal. The new rate, potentially breaching agreed caps, follows a Supreme Court ruling, raising uncertainty for Europe and pressure on the US economy.

Scientists have detected a plume of lithium pollution in Earths upper atmosphere and traced it to the re-entry of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stage. Using advanced LIDAR technology, researchers observed a rapid spike in lithium almost 100 kilometres above Earth, about ten times higher than normal levels. Atmospheric modelling connected the plume directly to the rockets uncontrolled descent over the Atlantic Ocean.

Bharti Airtel is injecting 20,000 crore into its new NBFC, Airtel Money, to fuel its next growth phase. This move aims to expand financial services across India by leveraging Airtel's digital assets and data expertise. The company plans to offer digital lending and credit solutions, building on its existing successful credit engine.

Anthropic AI cybersecurity stocks crash today: Cybersecurity stocks tumbled Monday as investors reacted to Anthropic's new AI tool, Claude Code Security, fearing disruption to traditional business models. While executives like CrowdStrike's CEO pushed back, emphasizing the need for battle-tested platforms, the market remains concerned about AI's impact on code scanning and security workflows.

Kazakhstan, a major uranium producer, will supply a significant amount of uranium to India. This new contract will fuel India's nuclear power plants. The agreement follows recent discussions between Kazakhstan's Kazatomprom and India's Department of Atomic Energy. India and Kazakhstan have a history of uranium supply deals. This development strengthens energy cooperation between the two nations.