The Economic Times

Gold imports under a special trade deal with the UAE have seen low usage. The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement offers a duty concession. However, actual imports under this scheme have been marginal. This comes as India increased its overall gold import duty.

Pakistan is pushing a proposed Islamic NATO with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and Pakistan, aiming to build a regional defence bloc that reduces reliance on external powers. If it takes shape, it could reshape West Asian security dynamics and add fresh strategic concerns for India, especially due to Pakistans central role.

American bombings have significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities. A top U.S. admiral stated Iran's defense industry is now 90% less effective. This action has drastically reduced Iran's ability to threaten regional partners and the United States. Furthermore, Iran can no longer supply weapons to its key allies like Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Hamas. These transfer routes have been severed.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with US President Donald Trump for trade talks. Xi Jinping stated that trade negotiations were progressing positively. However, he issued a strong warning regarding Taiwan, emphasizing that disagreements over the island could lead to a dangerous path and potential conflict between the two nations. The leaders also discussed reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Quote of the Day: Decades into her acclaimed career, Diane Sawyer continues to represent determination and credibility in American media. Her quote still resonates because it speaks to a quiet but deeply familiar struggle, the fear of not truly deserving success.

Quote of the Day by Robert Burns: Robert Burnss famous quote The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry highlights the unpredictable nature of life and the limits of human control. It suggests that even the most carefully prepared plans can fail when unexpected circumstances arise. The powerful quote reflects the reality that life is shaped by uncertainty, chance, and external forces beyond human expectation.

Passenger vehicle sales in India are projected to grow by approximately 10% this fiscal year, driven by sustained strong demand. Despite geopolitical uncertainties and potential fuel price hikes, the industry remains optimistic about maintaining this growth momentum. Tata Motors is confident in its product pipeline and expects an industry-beating growth scenario.

The Reserve Bank of India has cancelled registration certificates for several non-banking financial companies and core investment companies. This action follows surrender requests from entities like RR Holdings and Anjali Capfin. HDFC Holdings' certificate was cancelled as it is no longer a legal entity post-merger. Other companies surrendered their certificates due to exiting the NBFI business.

Mexico City gears up for the World Cup this summer. Visitors can explore historical sites like Zocalo and Chapultepec Park. The city boasts a diverse food scene from street tacos to fine dining. Eighteen public fan zones will broadcast matches for free. Public transport is recommended for reaching the Azteca stadium. Be mindful of traffic, pollution, and the high altitude.

Uber India Systems has secured a massive office space in Hyderabad. The company will occupy over 9 lakh square feet for a decade. This deal is valued at nearly Rs 839 crore. It highlights Uber's growing commitment to India. Hyderabad continues to attract global companies for technology and operations.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma launched two new online systems to digitize government quarters allotment and Mizoram House reservations. The Quarters Allotment Management System (QAMS) and Mizoram House Online Reservation System aim to streamline processes, making them more convenient for citizens and reducing manual workload. These initiatives are part of the state's push towards becoming a digital state.

Celebrated dietician Rujuta Diwekar shared a summer beauty drink recipe, Kulith Kalan, made with buttermilk, horse gram, and spices. This cooling beverage is beneficial for acne, frizzy hair, and pigmented skin, while also aiding digestion and combating bloating. Diwekar emphasizes using local ingredients for simple, clean diets.

US-based FDH Aero has opened a new office in Bengaluru, consolidating its hardware and electronics divisions to support India's growing aerospace and defence sector. This full-service hub, backed by local inventory and teams, aims to cater to tier-1 manufacturers and OEMs amidst strong commercial aerospace demand and rising defence investment.

The analysis by the inter-governmental body, International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) also said the increasing impact of disasters in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region may be linked to the growing prevalence of multi-hazard events, especially in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan, but the post-2013 trend suggests fewer lives are being hit year-on-year.

Quote of the Day by Milan Kundera: Milan Kunderas powerful quote compares love to empires, suggesting that both depend on strong underlying ideas to survive. It highlights how relationships are not sustained by emotion alone, but by shared beliefs, trust, and mutual understanding. The quote explains that when these foundational ideas begin to weaken or collapse, the emotional bond also starts to fade over time.

Kazakhstan is set to integrate artificial intelligence into its schools. A decree signed on May 12 paves the way for AI in secondary education. By July 1, a detailed action plan for 2026-2029 will be approved. This plan focuses on personalized learning, digital infrastructure, and teacher training. Pilot projects will begin soon, with nationwide rollout expected.

The Central Industrial Security Force has formally taken charge of security at Darbhanga airport in Bihar. A contingent of 145 personnel has been deployed. This marks the third civil aviation facility in Bihar under CISF security. The deployment is strategically important due to Darbhanga's proximity to the India-Nepal border and rising security concerns.

US stock market jumps sharply today as the Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq rally on renewed optimism from the U.S.-China trade summit and booming AI demand. Nvidia and Cisco led Wall Street gains while investors balanced strong earnings against inflation fears and rising oil prices. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed more than 260 points while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq hit fresh highs behind strong technology gains and growing AI optimism.

India's seafood sector is set for a major boost. The government plans a production-linked incentive scheme for small and medium seafood businesses. This aims to enhance global competitiveness and increase exports. The focus will be on value-added products and expanding the number of exporters significantly. Sustainable practices and improved quality standards are also key priorities.

US authorities are nearing a resolution for fraud charges against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani. The Justice Department may drop its case soon. The Securities and Exchange Commission is also working to settle its parallel civil fraud case. This development would significantly benefit the Adani Group, clearing the path for international capital markets and expansion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his thoughts on BRICS. He met with foreign ministers and heads of delegation. Modi described BRICS as an important platform for cooperation among emerging economies. He also noted its role for the Global South.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has introduced new rules for duty-free gold imports by gems and jewellery exporters. These measures include a 100 kg limit per licence and mandatory facility inspections for new applicants. Existing exporters must meet 50 percent of previous export obligations. Fortnightly performance reports are now required, enhancing oversight.

Nancy Guthrie case: Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos states investigators are keeping details about Nancy Guthrie's disappearance secret to protect the case. Khloe Kardashian has voiced concerns about the lack of public leads. DNA analysis is progressing slowly. Authorities believe an arrest will be made eventually. The FBI is involved in the ongoing investigation.

A Delhi court on Thursday sent five accused in the alleged NEET-UG paper leak case to seven-day CBI custody. The agency told the court custodial interrogation was needed to uncover the conspiracy, identify other suspects and trace financial transactions linked to the alleged exam leak network spanning multiple states and intermediaries.

A new federal education tax credit is putting up to $1,700 back on the table for eligible Americans, and families across the U.S. are starting to pay attention. The new tax relief program allows taxpayers to claim major savings through approved education scholarship donations, while also helping students access school funding support. As more states move to join the plan, the education tax credit is quickly becoming one of the biggest trending U.S. tax benefit stories for 2026.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that it would be a terrible mistake if China tried to take Taiwan by force, while reiterating that Washingtons position on the island remains unchanged. Earlier, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said President Donald Trump would speak more on Taiwan during his Beijing visit, as Chinese President Xi Jinping warned that missteps over the issue could push the US and China into conflict.

Two ships carrying cooking gas for India have successfully navigated the Hormuz Strait. This comes after a recent attack on a dhow, the Haji Ali, which sank. Its 14 crew members were rescued by Omani Coast Guard. Another LPG carrier, SYMI, crossed on May 13 and arrives May 16. NV SUNSHINE crossed on May 14 and arrives May 18.

Quote of the Day by John Keats: Jon Keats' powerful quote reflects the fearless approach to ambition and his belief in striving for excellence despite the risk of failure. The timeless quote highlights the importance of courage, persistence, and the willingness to take risks in the pursuit of greatness. It suggests that failure is not something to fear, but a natural part of growth and achievement.

Cerebras starts trading on Nasdaq Global Select Market on Thursday under the ticker symbol 'CBRS'.

Forza Horizon 6 leak: Large portions of Forza Horizon 6 files reportedly surfaced on SteamDB over the weekend ahead of both the games early access rollout and standard release date. Under normal circumstances, preload files distributed through platforms like Steam remain encrypted until launch.

Actress Mouni Roy and her husband Suraj Nambiar have confirmed their separation. The couple released a joint statement addressing divorce rumours. They stated they have decided to part ways and are addressing matters privately. The statement emphasized their mutual decision to move forward on separate paths with respect. They aim to cherish their friendship in the future.

TasteAtlas has recognized 5 Indian ice cream flavors among the world's best. From K. Rustom & Co.'s Mango Ice Cream Sandwich to Pabba's Gadbad Ice Cream and Naturals' Tender Coconut, these selections highlight India's rich and diverse ice cream heritage. Apsara Ice Creams' Guava and Corner House's Death by Chocolate also earned global acclaim.

Brigitte Macron has denied claims that an argument with President Macron over messages to actress Golshifteh Farahani led to her appearing to shove him in Vietnam. Her team insists she has never checked her husband's phone, refuting allegations from a new book. The incident, which went viral last year, has resurfaced with these new details.

Maharashtra has inked a significant deal with AM Intelligence Labs for a massive Rs 1.14 lakh crore green data centre and AI hub near Mumbai. This renewable energy-powered project, set to create 8,000 high-tech jobs, will feature 500 MW capacity and 2.5 lakh AI chipsets. Phased development aims for completion by 2030, boosting the state's digital leadership.

Todays quote of the day by legendary Chinese philosopher Confucius feels strikingly relevant in an age obsessed with speed, trends, and instant success. Study the past if you would define the future is more than ancient wisdom it is a warning about human nature, forgotten lessons, and the quiet patterns that shape every generation. The quote reminds us that real growth, emotional intelligence, leadership, and long-term success often begin when people honestly confront history instead of escapin

Quote of the Day by Lord Byron: Lord Byrons thought-provoking quote explores the deeper meaning of life, human existence and emotional experience. It suggests that life is truly defined by feeling deeply through passion, struggle, joy, pain, and personal connection rather than simply existing comfortably. The timeless quote of the day encourages readers to reflect on emotional authenticity, the value of lived experiences, and how even difficult moments can shape identity and a stronger sense of

Britain's health minister Wes Streeting has resigned. He plans to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party. Starmer faces pressure after recent election losses. Other figures like Angela Rayner are also mentioned as potential contenders. The party is navigating a period of uncertainty and potential change.

DLF Ltd is stepping up its game with a forecast of Rs 20,000 crore in sales bookings for the fiscal year 2026-27. Fueling this aspiration is a dynamic portfolio of new residential developments planned across hotspots such as Gurugram, Mumbai, and Goa.

PGA Championship 2026: Scottie Scheffler remains the betting favorite as the No. 1 player in the world, and Rory McIlroy is coming off another win at the Masters.

Indian companies and lenders saw foreign borrowing filings drop significantly in March. This reduction occurred amidst global financial market uncertainties. The total filings amounted to USD 5.43 billion. This figure is lower than the previous year but higher than February's filings. Several prominent firms submitted intentions for new projects and refinancing existing loans.

Post-holiday digestive woes are common, but nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar offers five simple tips to restore gut health. She recommends incorporating cluster beans into lunch, engaging in light workouts, snacking on local fruits, and increasing water intake with sherbets and aam panas. A millet meal in the late afternoon can also help reboot your system within two days.

Word of the Day: Xenodochial reminds us that openness toward strangers has been valued across civilizations for centuries. At a time when fear and division often dominate public discourse, rediscovering a term rooted in kindness and hospitality feels especially meaningful.