The Economic Times

India's government is closely watching the rupee's decline against the US dollar. Officials may take action if the situation becomes concerning. The rupee has weakened significantly, impacting export competitiveness. Budget announcements aim to boost foreign currency inflows. Changes to Alternative Investment Funds and investment rules for overseas investors are also highlighted.

MG Motor India is set to launch its flagship SUV, the Majestor, on February 12, 2026. This premium D+ segment SUV will be MG's largest in India, boasting bold styling, advanced features like Level 2 ADAS, and a powerful 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine.

Suzuki Motorcycle India saw a strong start to the year. Total vehicle sales grew by 15 percent in January. Domestic sales increased by 14 percent. Exports also saw a significant rise of 21 percent. The company attributes this growth to customer engagement and network expansion. Suzuki Motorcycle India is focused on providing a reliable ownership experience.

Former US President Donald Trump has strongly criticized Grammy Awards host Trevor Noah. Trump called the ceremony he worst and virtually unwatchable. He was particularly angered by a joke Noah made linking him to Jeffrey Epstein's island. Trump threatened legal action against Noah, calling him pathetic and alentless.

During Sunday night's Grammys 2026, host Trevor Noah took a swipe at Donald Trump and his one-time friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.

Donald Trump has talked about replacing income tax with tariff money. This idea has started a new debate among experts. Some US states depend a lot on income tax to run their budgets. If the system changes, these states could face financial pressure. Economists say big changes would not be easy and need approval.

The Rookie Season 8 Episode 5 release time, schedule and how to watch details the episode titled The Network, its story focus, air time, platform availability, cast details, schedule change, and full season plan. The episode airs on ABC and streams later on Hulu and Moviesphere+.

Kim Kardashian reportedly traveled to the UK to spend a private weekend with Lewis Hamilton, igniting dating speculations. The 45-year-old reality icon arrived by private jet and stayed at the luxurious Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds, popular for privacy and exclusivity. Hamilton joined her an hour later, and the duo reportedly shared a room, enjoyed a private spa session, and had dinner away from other guests.

The Reserve Bank of India reports that 98.42 percent of Rs 2,000 banknotes have been returned. This withdrawal began on May 19, 2023. The total value of these notes in circulation has significantly decreased. People could deposit or exchange these notes at bank branches until October 7, 2023.

Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenues in FY27 are projected to grow at 6.3 per cent, with a buoyancy of 0.94 even after a reduction in tax rates on about 375 items with effect from September 22, 2025, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) Chairman Vivek Chaturvedi said in a post-Budget interview.

Passengers on the SambalpurNanded Nagavali Superfast Express were left bewildered when a reserved coach was missing upon arrival at Sambalpur. The train departed without the coach, causing confusion and scattering passengers with confirmed tickets. This incident, attributed to a technical snag, highlights recurring logistical lapses in India's railway network, with similar events reported previously.

Public sector steel companies are set to significantly increase capital expenditure by nearly 44% to Rs 25,125 crore by fiscal 2026-27, led by SAIL and NMDC. This surge in investment anticipates improved domestic demand, driven by recovery in key sectors and infrastructure expansion, supporting India's goal to reach 300 mtpa steel capacity by 2030-31.

The Social Security Administration confirmed a 2.8% Social Security COLA for 2026, lifting the average retiree benefit by about $56 a month. But net payments may disappoint. Medicare Part B premiums jump to $202.90, up from $185. Higher IRMAA surcharges, Part D premiums, and federal tax withholding further cut deposits. The COLA is real. Deductions reduce what retirees actually receive.

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara accused Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot of deliberately sending the state's hate speech bill to the President to delay its implementation. The bill, passed in December, aims to prevent hate speech and maintain social harmony, with penalties including jail time and fines. The Governor's action followed a plea from the opposition BJP.

Plans are underway to lay underground railway tracks along a 40-km strategic corridor in West Bengal. This vital route, known as the 'Chicken's Neck', will connect the northeast with the rest of India. The existing double line will also be converted to a four-line track. This development enhances connectivity and security for the region.

The government has successfully auctioned 136 coal blocks since 2020. Future allocations will also follow a competitive bidding process. The Minister of State for Coal stated that the government is open to examining Telangana's proposal for the Tadicherla coal block. This move aims to ensure decisions are made in the people's interest and as per law.

Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2, starring Kapil Sharma, is set to make its digital debut after a modest theatrical run. The comedy sequel, which released in cinemas on December 12, 2025, will begin streaming online soon. Directed by Anukalp Goswami, the film follows Mohan, whose attempt to marry the woman he loves leads to multiple mistaken identities and unplanned marriages across different faiths.

Air India has grounded a Boeing 787-8 aircraft. A pilot reported a possible defect in the fuel control switch. The airline is working with the manufacturer to investigate. Passenger and crew safety is the top priority. This action follows a directive from the DGCA. All other Boeing 787 aircraft in the fleet were previously checked and found to be clear.

Up to $2,000 per child is now on the table. Newborns born from 2025 to 2028 qualify for a $1,000 federal deposit under Trump Accounts created by Donald Trump. Major employers including JPMorgan and Bank of America are matching that $1,000. Parents can open accounts starting July.

India's power consumption saw a significant rise in January. This increase of 3.8 percent is attributed to the widespread use of heating appliances. Intense cold conditions across North India drove up demand. Peak power demand also climbed, reflecting the higher electricity usage. This trend highlights the impact of weather on national energy needs.

West Bengal receives a significant boost with Rs 14,205 crore allocated for railway projects in the Union Budget 2026-27. This investment will drive track creation, station redevelopment, and safety enhancements across the state. Projects like the Kavach system and Vande Bharat Express services are already improving travel efficiency. Over 100 stations are slated for redevelopment, promising modern facilities for passengers.

Government shutdown 2026: This is the second time in a matter of months that federal operations have been disrupted as Congress digs in, using the annual funding process as leverage to extract policy changes.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle's highly anticipated OTT release is delayed as makers extend its theatrical run due to strong box-office performance. New ScreenX and Ultra 4DX versions are launching in Japan, pushing potential Blu-ray or streaming availability to March, possibly announced at AnimeJapan 2026.

Shyamlis life began with abandonment after doctors said she would not survive, but an adoptive family gave her a chance at life. After losing her adoptive father to cancer at a young age, she grew up in a home where abuse and fear replaced safety, affecting her education and mental health. Despite setbacks, including failing her board exams, she pushed forward, studied through NIOS, and later joined NIFT Srinagar, where distance from home helped her begin healing.

The defence ministry said last month it was investigating Zhang, the vice chairman of the powerful Central Military Commission (CMC), as well as Liu Zhenli, chief of staff of the CMC's joint staff department, which oversees combat planning.

New York City is facing an extreme winter cold spell with temperatures staying below freezing for many days. Weather experts say this could become one of the longest cold streaks in decades. Arctic air and strong weather systems are keeping the city icy. Relief is expected soon as weather patterns slowly change.

India's Sports Ministry is actively working to bring Formula 1 racing back to the Buddh International Circuit. Discussions are underway with track authorities to revive the event last held in 2013. The government is committed to seeing the high-profile sport return to the country.

The Union Budget 2026-27 focuses on skilling and workforce development. It supports MSMEs and future industries. This aims to create a formal and skilled talent pool across India. Experts believe this budget will drive growth through AI and digital capabilities. It bridges the education and employment gap. Investments in manufacturing and specialized sectors will boost job creation.

A Chinese man, dubbed 'The Alchemist,' has extracted nearly 200,000 yuan worth of gold from two tonnes of electronic waste, including SIM cards. His viral video showcases a complex chemical process, highlighting the immense value in e-waste. While inspiring, experts warn of safety and legal risks for amateurs.

Gold price prediction: Gold rate fell more than 9.8 per cent on January 30, in its sharpest one-day drop since 1983, and extended its fall on Monday.

More than 1 million federal workers remain impacted as the 2026 government shutdown enters day three. The House is expected to vote today to reopen the government after Speaker Mike Johnson said funding could pass by Tuesday. The bill funds most agencies but delays DHS money. Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries, oppose it. A GOP-only vote is now likely.

Fighting age from within is real. These seven everyday foods pack serious antioxidants that combat wrinkles, boost collagen, and keep your skin glowing naturally without expensive treatments.

Members of Parliament voiced concerns in the Rajya Sabha. A call was made for the Bharat Ratna for J Jayalalithaa. Proposals included a National Fee School Council and an All India Judicial Services. Other issues discussed were AI's impact on IT jobs, fake caste certificates, and farmers' distress sales. Elections for Cantonment Boards were also mentioned.

S&P Global Ratings is optimistic that India will achieve its fiscal deficit goal for FY27. This assurance persists even with expected declines in Goods and Services Tax receipts resulting from rate adjustments. Enhanced consumer spending and more effective tax collection are likely to elevate GST income, alongside support from central bank dividends and potential underutilization of capital expenditure.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the start of nuclear talks with the United States, local media said Monday, after US leader Donald Trump said he was hopeful of a deal to avert military action against the Islamic republic. President Pezeshkian has ordered the opening of talks with the United States, the news agency Fars reported on Monday, citing an unnamed government source.

In 2026, the shift toward plant-forward eating is no longer about labels like vegan or vegetarianits about flavor, gut health, and sustainability. People are moving away from heavy, meat-centric meals and embracing whole, fiber-rich, minimally processed plant foods that nourish the body and planet. Here are the 7 most talked-about foods leading this change.

Cate Blanchett, a celebrated actress known for her daring roles, has achieved critical acclaim and commercial success across diverse cinematic genres. Her career, marked by numerous awards, exemplifies a philosophy of embracing risk.

Gurgaon viral video: A street food vendor became an internet sensation with a viral video where he humorously declined a woman's offer to redesign his stall's signage, stating he uses Canva. The clip, highlighting resourcefulness and the accessibility of DIY design tools, garnered millions of views and sparked widespread online discussion.

Fibermaxxing has become 2026's biggest nutrition movement. From humble chickpeas to ancient millets, these seven fiber powerhouses are reshaping how everyday eaters approach gut health, digestion, and weight management without sacrificing taste or convenience.

The FY27 budget is set to boost India's economy and steel demand. Increased capital spending, support for industrial clusters, and a focus on MSMEs are key. These measures will strengthen infrastructure, improve logistics, and enhance domestic manufacturing. Steel companies expect growth across construction, automotive, and railway sectors. The budget also prioritizes cleaner technologies and modern production facilities.

A new High Level Committee on Banking is proposed in the Union Budget. This committee will align the banking sector with India's future growth. It will also ensure financial stability, inclusion, and consumer protection. The budget also outlines clear targets for NBFCs. These targets focus on credit disbursement and technology adoption.

The Budget 2026-27 highlights tourism, mobility, and human capital as key drivers for future growth. Initiatives aim to boost travel demand and prepare the workforce for upcoming challenges. The government is fostering a stronger travel ecosystem by supporting sustainable and heritage tourism. Reductions in taxes for overseas travel and education will ease financial burdens for Indian citizens, enhancing global connectivity.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is nearing the end of its probe into a Learjet 45 plane crash at Mumbai airport in September 2023. This comes after a similar aircraft from the same company, VSR Ventures, was involved in a fatal crash in Baramati in January 2024. The AAIB has analyzed all evidence for the Mumbai incident.

Tensions are running high amid a military buildup by the U.S. Navy near Iran, following a violent crackdown against anti-government demonstrations last month, the deadliest domestic unrest in Iran since its 1979 revolution.

3 Idiots star Mona Singh has opened a second branch of Kona Kona, a retro-themed bar in Andheri, Mumbai. Embracing a cozy 80s aesthetic with warm lighting, green-and-wood interiors, and vintage furniture, the space offers a nostalgic escape and regional comfort food, perfect for long conversations and pet-friendly outings.

A Bengaluru entrepreneur, Vinay Parameshwarappa, shared how a cold email to Infosys founder Narayana Murthy resulted in a personal meeting within weeks. Murthy, who Vinay deeply admired, responded within hours and met him in person, impressing Vinay with his graciousness and punctuality.