The Economic Times News

Tulsi Puja Diwas, observed annually on December 25th, is a sacred Hindu festival dedicated to worshipping Tulsi Mata. This observance, believed to bring peace and prosperity, involves specific rituals and chanting, highlighting Tulsi's spiritual significance as a symbol of purity and a purifier of the atmosphere.

A new word, 'lethologica,' describing the frustrating 'tip of the tongue' feeling, is gaining traction across India. The story explores the familiar moment when a thought hides on the edge of memory, leaving us stuck mid sentence.

India and the US are nearing a trade deal, with Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran expressing optimism for a March resolution. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer acknowledged India's est ever proposals, despite ongoing disagreements on agricultural imports. Negotiators are currently in New Delhi for crucial talks on a Bilateral Trade Agreement.

The Union Budget 2015-16 presented a roadmap for growth and reforms. It aimed to boost manufacturing and infrastructure. Financial inclusion and welfare for the poor were prioritised. Key initiatives included GST and the JAM trinity. The budget also focused on agriculture, entrepreneurship and social security. Reforms in financial markets and measures against black money were announced.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Pariksha Pe Charcha returns for its ninth edition in January 2026, aiming to alleviate exam stress by fostering a festival-like atmosphere. Registration is open via MyGov for students, teachers, and parents, with a competition to select participants. The initiative, part of the Exam Warriors movement, promotes holistic development and a stress-free approach to examinations.

India's oil imports from Russia are set for a six-month peak in December. This surge continues despite U.S. sanctions. Nayara Energy is significantly increasing its Russian crude intake. Conversely, Reliance Industries is reducing its imports. State-owned companies are now the primary buyers of Russian oil for India. These trends suggest India is prioritizing discounted oil over political risks.

As interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is approaching Earth, Harvard scientist is debating whether the cosmic visitor is a friendly visitor or serial killer sent to poison us. Researchers have found that comet 3I/ATLAS is both rich in metals and chemically uneven inside and is even loaded with hydrogen sulfide, once used as chemical weapon during the World War I.

American bombers and Japanese fighter jets conducted a joint flight over the Sea of Japan. This show of force followed recent military exercises by China and Russia near Japan and South Korea. The allies reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability. The drills aimed to deter any forceful changes to the status quo. This action highlights ongoing tensions in the region.

A jellybean-sized patch on Deepinder Goyals forehead has pushed him into Silicon Valleys most radical club: the tech billionaires trying to hack aging itself. With Temple a brain-blood-flow tracker the Zomato founder becomes Indias boldest entrant in the global longevity boom.

Mexico has approved tariff hikes on imports from India, China, and other Asian nations. These measures are set to take effect next year. China's commerce ministry has voiced strong opposition, labeling the tariffs as unilateral and protectionist. Beijing will monitor the impact of these new trade measures on its interests and those of other partners.

Dhurandhar continues its box office success. Hrithik Roshan praised the film's cast and filmmaking. However, his initial comments on the movie's politics drew backlash. He later posted a more detailed note on X, focusing on the cast's performances. The film, released on December 5, has received positive responses from audiences and critics alike.

A resurfaced video of Vinod Khanna dancing at a 1989 function, joined by Rekha and Javed Miandad, has sparked comparisons to his son Akshaye Khanna's recent trending entrance in 'Dhurandhar'. Fans are noting the striking resemblance in their on-screen swagger and dance moves, with Akshaye's performance in the film echoing his father's charismatic style.

Two young men from Panna, Madhya Pradesh, discovered a 15.34-carat diamond, expected to fetch over 50 lakh. The find, made just 20 days after starting their mining lease, reinforces Panna's reputation for unexpected fortunes. The friends plan to use the proceeds for their sisters' weddings and business expansion.

During a major Congressional hearing, US Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove warned that Trump's tariffs on India could inflict long-term damage on one of Americas most vital alliances. She said when Trump took office, the Biden admin handed him a bilateral relationship at the height of its strength only for it to be flush, flush, flush down the toilet.

Indian pension fund executives are pushing back against a regulatory framework designed to shield the $175 billion sector from fluctuations in the bond market. This proposed shift in valuing specific bond assets has sparked concern among managers, who argue it risks misrepresenting fund worth and complicating investor decisions.

The Trump administration is demanding the International Criminal Court change its founding document. This move aims to prevent future investigations into President Trump and his top officials. The US is threatening further sanctions on the court if these demands are not met. This action escalates a long-standing US campaign against the ICC, which is seen as infringing on national sovereignty.

Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa's film The Devil was released today. The actor is reportedly in jail in connection with a murder case. Despite his absence, fans showed up for the first day, first show. Early reviews on X indicate a mixed response. While some praised Darshan's performance, others pointed out issues with the film's first half. Read on!

A murder conviction against former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn has been overturned. The court cited serious trial irregularities. Lynn was convicted of murdering Carol Clay in 2020. He was acquitted of murdering Russell Hill. A retrial for Clay's murder is now mandated. Lynn faces a new bail hearing in January.

Former US President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism of Ukraine. He stated President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must be realistic about the ongoing war. Trump also questioned when Ukraine will hold its next elections. European leaders are reportedly seeking a joint meeting with both the US and Ukraine soon.

IndiGo flights cancelled status: On Thursday, IndiGo flights were cancelled at the Goa and Chennai Airports as the crisis continued for the tenth consecutive day. IndiGo has claimed that their operations are returning back to normal but cancellations were reported at major airports on Wednesday too. Seven flights were cancelled at the Goa airport today and 36 at the Chennai airport.

Delhi Police seized demonetised currency worth crores in Wazirpur. Old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes were found in multiple bags. Several individuals were detained. Two vehicles used for transport were impounded. The origin of the cash and the network involved are under investigation. Further details are awaited.

US representatives express concern over President Trump's policies impacting India. They highlight damage to the US-India partnership and rising trade barriers. Tariffs on Indian goods and potential new tariffs on rice exports are causing strain. Negotiations between the two nations face challenges, risking further trade friction.

Dhruva Jaishankar told US lawmakers that renewed American engagement with Pakistan's military poses challenges for India-US ties. His remarks came as Washington announced major investments in Pakistan, drew praise from Islamabad, and revived diplomatic and security concerns for India amid recent tensions.

Amitabh Bachchan's near-fatal Coolie injury in 1983 deeply impacted his family. Young Abhishek Bachchan recalls his mother, Jaya, masterfully shielding them from the crisis. She transformed hospital visits into imaginative play, turning fear into curiosity for the children while managing immense stress with remarkable strength and grace.

US Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove warned that growing tariffs, visa hikes and political tensions are damaging India-US ties. She argued that President Donald Trump risks becoming he president who lost India, citing stalled engagement, cancelled summits and declining trust between Washington and New Delhi.

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan shield daughter Aaradhya from public glare. The couple instills respect for the film industry and encourages independent thought. Fourteen-year-old Aaradhya does not have a mobile phone, avoiding online pressures. She focuses on schoolwork, with parents maintaining open honesty. Read on to know how she contacts her friends.

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has confirmed that her wedding with Palash Muchhal is off. She made her first public appearance after the update and stated her commitment to cricket remains her top priority. She finds motivation in representing India. Read on to know more about it in detail.

The Trump administration is establishing a new militarized zone in California along the border with Mexico. This move aims to bolster border security operations. The Department of Interior is transferring jurisdiction to the Navy. This expands a strategy previously implemented in other border states. The designation allows troops to apprehend individuals accused of trespassing.

US trade representative Jamieson Greer will meet his Indonesian counterpart to discuss a trade deal. An agreement reached in July is reportedly at risk. Greer expressed interest in finalizing the deal, stating it benefits both nations. Indonesian officials confirmed ongoing talks, noting normal negotiation dynamics. The proposed agreement includes tariff eliminations and barrier removals.

Asian buyers are seeking significant price cuts for Venezuelan oil. This is driven by a surplus of sanctioned crude from Russia and Iran. Increased U.S. military activity near Venezuela also raises concerns for shippers. These factors are forcing Venezuela's state oil company to offer its heavy crude at much lower prices. China, a major buyer, is receiving these discounted offers.

The US government has moved to drop its case against a former Fox broadcasting executive involved in the FIFA corruption scandal that plunged the world's footballing body into crisis. The case was one of several to emerge from a sweeping 2015 corruption probe by the US Department of Justice (DOJ), which ultimately led to the downfall of then-FIFA president Sepp Blatter.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is facing a citizen-led recall effort. This is the second time in Alberta's history a premier has faced such a challenge. Petitions are also targeting other United Conservative Party members. Voters have three months to gather signatures. A recall vote could lead to a byelection before the next general election in 2027.

Weather in Hyderabad: Though the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted clear skies for Hyderabad on Thursday, the weather department has warned of a cold wave in Telangana. The temperatures in Hyderabad and other districts of Hyderabad are expected to fall further in the coming days amid the cold wave prediction, the IMD warned.

Oil firms bid over $300 million for drilling rights in the Gulf of Mexico. This marks the start of 30 planned sales to boost U.S. fossil fuel output. The move follows recent announcements for new drilling off Florida and California. Environmentalists express concerns about potential oil spills and harm to marine life.

United States Representative Pramila Jayapal warned that tariffs and immigration restrictions are hurting India-US economic ties and people-to-people connections. Citing a fifth-generation firm affected by rising costs, she said current policies threaten businesses and echo past discriminatory barriers to Indian immigration.

China's economy showed strength in the third quarter of 2025. Year-to-date GDP growth reached 5.2 percent. Full-year growth is projected at 4.9 percent. For 2026, the forecast is 4.4 percent. Government measures and stable trade policies are expected to boost investment and exports.

Mexico's Senate has greenlit significant tariff increases, potentially reaching 50%, on imports from China and other Asian nations starting in 2026. This move, aimed at strengthening domestic industries, will impact goods like autos, textiles, and steel from countries without trade agreements. Business groups and affected governments have voiced their opposition to the new duties.

Indian Railways is running 164 Vande Bharat chair car trains. The introduction of new services depends on various factors. A sleeper version of the Vande Bharat train is being developed with advanced safety features. Two such rakes are currently undergoing trials. This development aims to enhance passenger travel and safety across the network.

IndiGo, once lauded for its punctuality, faces widespread flight cancellations and delays. This disruption follows a dispute with regulators over new pilot flying hour rules. The airline's rapid expansion and lean operational model left no room for such changes. IndiGo's strategy to leverage its reputation has led to a regulatory concession, but the long-term impact on its dominance remains uncertain.

Coca-Cola has appointed Henrique Braun as its new Chief Executive Officer. He takes over from James Quincey, who will become executive chairman. This leadership change comes as the company navigates evolving consumer preferences for healthier and more affordable drinks. Braun's appointment is effective March 31. He aims to build on existing momentum and unlock future growth.

The Election Commission of India has extended the deadline for updating electoral rolls in West Bengal. The final publication is now set for February 14, 2026. This comes as the Supreme Court has issued a notice regarding the safety of Booth Level Officers conducting the intensive revision.