The Economic Times

India is striving for a unified BRICS stance on the West Asia crisis. Differing viewpoints among member nations have so far hindered consensus. Some BRICS members are directly involved in the conflict, complicating efforts for a joint statement. India, as the current BRICS chair, is facilitating discussions among the 11 member states to find common ground.

India has reverted to the 2016 seismic code after withdrawing IS 1893 (2025), sparking debate over earthquake safety. While the 2025 draft offered stronger, internationally aligned standards, higher costs and enforceability issues raised concerns. Experts advocate a balanced approach prioritising critical structures, retrofitting vulnerable homes, and improving compliance to enhance safety without overwhelming budgets.

Himachal Pradesh's Congress government has removed the Anti-Corruption Bureau and Vigilance Bureau from the Right to Information Act. This move prevents citizens from seeking information on these bodies. The opposition BJP has strongly condemned the decision. Former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur stated the action is undemocratic and against constitutional spirit.

Italian teenager Kimi Antonelli has made history by becoming the youngest Formula One driver to secure pole position for a Grand Prix. He achieved this feat in China for Mercedes. His teammate George Russell encountered significant car issues during qualifying. Lewis Hamilton secured third place for Ferrari, setting up an exciting race ahead.

Americans have a limited time to claim cash from a $4 million data breach settlement. Medical equipment company Numotion is offering payments to those affected by breaches in March and September 2024. Claimants can receive up to $15,000 for documented expenses. Free credit and medical monitoring are also available. The deadline to submit claims is March 18.

A fierce contest is underway for the fourth Rajya Sabha seat in Odisha. The ruling BJP and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's BJD are locked in a direct battle. The BJP is set to secure two seats comfortably. The BJD, with support from Congress and CPM, is backing a joint candidate for the crucial fourth seat.

A star employee at a company resigned after the CEO refused to approve a significant raise, despite the employees major contributions and cost-saving efforts. The VP supporting the raise shared that the employees departure forced the company to hire multiple contractors at three times the cost, highlighting how undervaluing key staff can backfire. Reddit users noted this is a common problem where short-term savings lead to long-term expenses and staff dissatisfaction.

USPS Mail Deadline: Over 160 million IRS tax returns move through the United States Postal Service every year. A new USPS postmark rule change now raises risks for taxpayers and voters. Since December 2025, the official postmark appears when mail reaches a regional sorting center, not when it enters a mailbox. The Internal Revenue Service uses postmarks to verify deadlines. Late processing could delay tax returns, mail-in ballots, and legal documents, experts warn.

Fans are speculating that Vicky Kaushal might reprise his URI: The Surgical Strike role in Dhurandhar 2, creating a possible link between the two films. Reports suggest he may appear in action sequences, while Yami Gautam could play a key role in a hospital scene. However, insiders have denied these claims, calling them fanmade rumours. With the films release on March 19, 2026, audiences will have to wait to see if any of these cameos are real.

The U.S. flag was raised over its embassy in Venezuela for the first time since 2019, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations. This move follows former President Nicolas Maduro's capture and President Trump's support for his successor, acting President Delcy Rodriguez, who seeks continued negotiations with the U.S.

Hollywood star Tom Hanks believes feeling good is more important than looking good. This philosophy guides his career and personal life. Hanks, known for his relatable characters, has achieved immense success through his acting. His words encourage prioritizing genuine happiness and emotional health over superficial standards. This message remains relevant in today's comparison-driven world.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emerged as a pivotal architect of President Trump's bold foreign policy, steering a course that prioritizes a raw exercise of power and strategic negotiations. His vision diverges from the conventional focus on overthrowing regimes, instead advocating for a pragmatic stance that compels authoritarian regimes to acquiesce.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the government is working to minimise the impact of ongoing global conflicts on India, assuring that efforts are being made to protect citizens from disruptions caused by war-like conditions worldwide. Speaking at an event in Silchar, where he launched and laid the foundation for development projects worth Rs 23,550 crore, Modi also criticised the Indian National Congress for allegedly spreading panic and misinformation.

The directive follows instructions from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and intends to ensure that essential services continue to receive fuel amid the escalating military conflict between Iran and the US that has put international supply routes in distress.

Ahead of Assam's assembly elections, the Congress party unveiled its second list of candidates, reserving 15 seats for its alliance partners. This follows their earlier declaration of 42 candidates for the state's 126 assembly seats. The party is actively strategizing its campaign for the upcoming polls.

Quote of the day: Anthony Hopkins once said, Today is the tomorrow I was worried about yesterday. That single line dismantles the entire architecture of anxiety. According to the American Psychological Association, 31.1% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, making fear of the future one of the most common psychological barriers to human performance and well-being. A 2023 global Gallup survey found that worry and stress are at a 15-year high worldwide, with

President Trump's administration has rejected diplomatic overtures from Middle Eastern allies seeking to end the two-week-old Iran war, with Tehran also refusing a ceasefire until U.S. and Israeli strikes cease. Both nations appear poised for a prolonged conflict, despite escalating civilian casualties and soaring oil prices due to Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Flipkart faces accusations of selling milk for just Re 1. Bengaluru Milk Union president D K Suresh claims this is a discount campaign hurting farmers and cooperatives. He has complained to the Competition Commission of India and written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Flipkart states prices are set by sellers and promotional campaigns do not affect farmer payments.

Italy's Constitutional Court has signaled its intent to uphold a new law restricting citizenship by descent, effectively ending the long-standing jus sanguinis principle for distant ancestors. This change, set to take effect in March 2025, will limit eligibility to those with parents or grandparents born in Italy, impacting millions worldwide.

Actor R Madhavan recently warned fans about a fake social media account impersonating him online. The actor shared a screenshot of the profile on Instagram and clarified that the person behind it has no connection with him or his team. Urging followers to stay cautious, he said the account falsely claims to represent him and speak to people on his behalf. Madhavan also stated that appropriate steps are being taken to hold the individual responsible.

The US has launched a new trade investigation into excess industrial capacity among 16 partners, including India, potentially leading to new tariffs. This probe, alongside another targeting forced labor imports, could impact Indian exporters relying on Chinese components. Stricter documentation and compliance costs are anticipated as US authorities demand proof of origin for inputs.

$166 billion in disputed tariffs could soon return to U.S. businesses. The Trump tariff refund process is now taking shape. Officials at U.S. Customs and Border Protection are building the CAPE online portal to process claims. The move follows a ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States that certain tariffs were illegal. Companies may soon file refund requests. Payments will go directly to bank accounts once approved.

A groundbreaking ceremony led by Union Minister Jitendra Singh has marked the start of a new Rs 600 crore pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Kathua. This state-of-the-art facility will specialise in producing Amino Cephalosporanic Acid, a vital component of antibiotics. With this investment, India is set to bolster its pharmaceutical sector and lessen dependence on foreign imports.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav married his childhood sweetheart Vanshika Chadha in Mussoorie on Saturday. Vanshika, who works in an administrative role at LIC, has maintained a private life away from the spotlight, supporting Kuldeep through his cricket career.

Apples Apple iPhone 16 series has received major price cuts in India, with retailers offering discounts of up to nearly 20,000. The Apple iPhone 16 Plus, which launched at 89,900, is currently available for around 71,890 on Vijay Sales, and the price can drop to about 68,000 after bank offers. Meanwhile, the base iPhone 16 is also selling for close to 60,000 on some platforms after additional card discounts.

Iran war: India has brought forward a global tender for urea imports and ordered 13.5 lakh tonnes of fertiliser by mid-February. About 90 per cent of this order is expected to arrive by the end of March, the sources said.

The Bangalore Hotels Association has urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to implement a 2 per unit power subsidy for hotels switching to induction stoves, mirroring a similar initiative in Tamil Nadu. This plea arises due to ongoing shortages of commercial LPG cylinders, impacting eateries across Bengaluru.

Recent updates to electricity regulations focus on empowering industries to harness captive power generation. By streamlining compliance processes and clarifying ownership in group captive setups, these reforms aim to cut down transmission losses and bolster grid performance. This strategic initiative aligns with India's goal of a smoother energy transition and promotes industrial expansion, offering businesses a transparent operational framework.

India faces an LPG shortage affecting restaurants in major cities. Establishments are reducing menus or closing partially. Many are seeking alternatives to gas cylinders. Industrialist Harsh Goenka shared a list of 50 food items that can be prepared without LPG. He also used a metaphor to highlight the importance of preparedness during crises.

Quote of the day today highlights a message by Oprah Winfrey about friendship and support. The quote of the day explains the value of people who stay during difficult times. The quote of the day meaning shows why loyalty and shared struggle matter more than comfort and success.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, without naming any country, said some BRICS members are directly involved in the conflict, which has impacted finding a unified stance for the grouping.

The Tamil web series Muthu Engira Kaattaan, starring Vijay Sethupathi in the lead role, is set to premiere soon. The mystery-driven action drama follows the story of a man named Muthu whose life is described through very different perspectives, with some calling him a legend while others see him as a threat. Created by M. Manikandan and co-directed with B. Ajithkumar, the series also features Milind Soman along with Sudev Nair, Risha Jacobs and others in key roles.

India has strongly condemned Pakistan's recent airstrikes inside Afghanistan. These attacks resulted in civilian deaths and damage to infrastructure. India views these strikes as another aggressive act by Pakistan, which it believes is hostile to Afghanistan's sovereignty. India emphasizes that Afghanistan's territorial integrity must be fully respected.

Gut issues are common and affect digestion and mood. Nutritionist Lovneet Batra offers two simple home remedies for better gut health. An aloe vera-coconut drink aids hydration and soothes the digestive tract. Licorice-fennel tea offers warmth and eases bloating and discomfort. These drinks promote a healthier gut lining and overall digestive comfort.

India is experiencing an unprecedented rise in the popularity of induction cooktops. This surge in sales comes as a response to the LPG gas shortages caused by ongoing conflicts in West Asia. Traders across the Delhi NCR region are ramping up their production efforts to satisfy this soaring demand.

Iran war fuel crisis: Indias top gas importer Petronet LNG last week invoked force majeure serving notices to local buyers like GAIL on supply reduction due to vessel movement constraints following the escalating conflict.

Leonardo DiCaprio's powerful Quote of the Day, Only you and you alone can change your situation. Don't blame it on anything or anyone, underscores the importance of personal responsibility. The article highlights DiCaprio's journey from a young actor to a global star, emphasizing his consistent message of self-empowerment and accountability as a driving force for meaningful change.

Jean-Claude Van Damme became a global action star with his martial arts skills. He is famous for his flexibility and fight scenes. His career began with films like Bloodsport and Kickboxer. Van Damme also gained attention for his Epic Split commercial. He continues to be a recognizable figure in action cinema.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he hoped that China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain and others would send ships to the area.

Explore six powerful Indian foods rich in Vitamin C that aren't Amla. From the nutrient-dense Guava and spicy Green Chilies to the miracle Moringa leaves, this story details how these local, accessible ingredients can fortify your immune system and enhance skin health for a vibrant 2026.

A dedicated employee with over seven years of perfect punctuality was fired for being 20 minutes late for the first time. In response, his colleagues staged a protest by deliberately arriving late themselves. This incident highlights concerns about job security and the potential for unfair dismissals, even for long-serving staff.

Tensions between the US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other escalate perilously. A missile struck the helipad at the US Embassy in Baghdad, raising alarms. Meanwhile, drone wreckage caused chaos at an oil facility in the UAE, heightening fears as Iran issued stark warnings to Emirati cities.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal stated India's economic resilience amidst the Middle East war, acknowledging a potential short-term dip in economic activity. He expressed confidence in India's strong fundamentals and the public's willingness to collaborate with the government to overcome challenges and recover in the coming months.

Elevate your cognitive performance with these seven vegetarian Omega-3 powerhouses. From the high-potency ALA in flaxseeds to the direct DHA in algal oil, this story outlines how to naturally sharpen your mental clarity, reduce brain fog, and protect your long-term brain health using accessible plant-based Indian ingredients.