The Economic Times

India-US trade deal signing is contingent on a new tariff framework, with discussions ongoing regarding non-tariff barriers and Section 232 tariffs. The agreement will also address US Section 301 tariffs, with finalization awaiting Washington's restoration of global tariff architecture post-Supreme Court ruling.

India's trade deficit widened significantly in February, reaching $27 billion. This increase was driven by a substantial rise in imports, especially gold and silver. Exports experienced a minor decrease. The government plans to introduce measures to support exporters facing logistical challenges. The trade gap with China also saw an increase during the fiscal year.

India's wholesale price inflation reached an 11-month high of 2.13% in February, driven by increased costs of primary goods like food and non-food articles. Economists anticipate further acceleration due to rising input costs and ongoing geopolitical tensions, with manufacturing products also showing a slight increase.

Why has Israeli PM not attended last seven crucial cabinet meetings, and is Benjamin Netanyahu critically injured or really dead? Rumors spread on social media during the Israel-Iran war. Videos, AI deepfake claims, and Netanyahus absence from cabinet meetings triggered speculation. Israeli PMO and a Jerusalem cafe said the prime minister is alive and fine.

Nancy Guthrie missing case investigation latest big update shows new evidence review in the disappearance of Savannah Guthries mother. FBI recovered camera thumbnails, investigators checked earlier surveillance dates, and authorities warned the suspect could target others while the search continues.

Donald Trump gave what appeared to be private details about Congressman Neil Dunn's poor health.

Quote of the day by Ludwig von Mises: Economist Ludwig von Mises issued a stark warning. He stated that humanity faces doom if war is not abolished. Mises emphasized collective responsibility for peace. His message highlights the urgency of diplomacy and cooperation. The choices made today will shape mankind's future. This call to action underscores the value of peace.

Why are US stock market indexes up now, and will Nasdaq, S&P 500 and Dow Jones continue to move upwards or sink again? Wall Street moved higher as investors returned to AI stocks. Meta, Nvidia and chip companies gained. Lower oil prices and economic signals also supported markets as investors watched Federal Reserve policy.

Haryana government has decided against prosecuting Ashoka University's Ali Khan Mahmudabad for an alleged objectionable Facebook post. The state informed the Supreme Court of this magnanimous, one-time decision, effectively closing the matter. The court, however, cautioned the professor to be more mindful of his future statements given the sensitive nature of such issues.

Digital gold purchases in India saw a significant surge in 2025. Younger investors are increasingly opting for small, online gold purchases over traditional jewellery. This trend is driven by convenience and accessibility. Experts believe government regulations will further boost this digital gold market.

Restaurant owners are struggling to get LPG supplies. This shortage is causing operational issues and impacting business. Many fear job cuts and salary reductions if the situation continues. Some businesses are exploring alternative cooking methods. The industry anticipates a difficult period ahead due to these ongoing supply challenges.

Replying to a supplementary question in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman said the modified programme would incorporate lessons from the earlier scheme, which was discontinued in April 2025 after nine years. With studies done by Niti Aayog and others, this scheme is being redrafted and soon the Cabinet will be given a proposal with which we will launch a new scheme to continue with Stand-Up India, which benefitted SC/ST and women all over the country, she said.

On Tuesday, travelers will find 44 flights from Air India and Air India Express heading to West Asia. However, the escalating regional conflict has led Dubai airport to impose restrictions on foreign carrier flights. In response, IndiGo and SpiceJet have temporarily suspended their services to Dubai.

Amazon is pushing India for faster approval of its satellite communication permit. The company has sent multiple letters to the government. This comes as Amazon lags behind its satellite launch schedule. It faces strong competition from Elon Musk's Starlink. Amazon aims to offer significantly more capacity than Starlink in India.

In a surprising turn of events, the Supreme Court has scrutinised Sebi's ongoing actions against the directors of Sterling Biotech. This review arises following the directors hefty 5,100 crore settlement payment. Earlier, the court had invalidated all related cases. Sebi's investigation concerns the suspected routing of funds.

Amid escalating geopolitical tensions, Indian exporters and freight forwarders are appealing for government support. Shipping lines worldwide are imposing significant war-risk surcharges on Middle Eastern shipments, often doubling the previously established rates.

Magicbricks and NAREDCO have joined forces to forge a strategic alliance designed to invigorate India's real estate sector. This one-year agreement positions Magicbricks as a key knowledge and communication partner, tasked with launching research reports and regular newsletters.

The Delhi High Court has backed Solar Energy Corporation of India's 2023 move. This decision reallocated 2.33 gigawatts of solar power capacity from Azure Power India to Adani Green Energy. A public interest litigation challenging this reallocation was dismissed. The court found no evidence of loss to the public exchequer. The reallocation involved a reduction in the power purchase price.

In a surprising twist, Kyiv was the target of an unprecedented drone attack in broad daylight. Thankfully, Ukrainian air defenses were on high alert, managing to intercept the majority of the drones. These were not just any drones; they were equipped with sophisticated communication systems, raising the stakes of this daytime incursion.

I'm a feminist, but I think that romance has been taken away a bit for my generation, Emma Watsons quote, reflects the modern balance between independence and emotional connection. It highlights how feminism empowers individuals while recognizing that traditional romantic gestures may feel diminished in contemporary society. It encourages embracing both empowerment and intimacy, showing that advocating for equality does not mean sacrificing love, tenderness, or meaningful human connection.

A parliamentary panel suggests boosting bank and NBFC co-lending to help MSMEs access cheaper credit. It also proposes listing profitable regional rural banks and reinforcing state-run general insurers. The committee highlighted a significant credit gap for small businesses and a decline in insurance penetration. Recommendations include developing climate risk insurance and using business correspondents to reach rural areas.

Twenty-one million small borrowers exited formal finance. Lenders stopped new loans to those with overdue payments after a microfinance crisis. Many have returned to private moneylenders. This trend reflects tighter lending rules and market contraction. Loan disbursements saw a recent increase, indicating a slow recovery.

French philosopher Albert Camus's profound quote, 'Man is the only creature who refuses to be what he is,' encapsulates humanity's constant quest for identity and meaning. Despite facing hardship, Camus championed truth and justice, influencing 20th-century thought with works like 'The Stranger' and 'The Myth of Sisyphus,' urging us to confront life's uncertainties.

India has updated its foreign direct investment policy. Investments from countries sharing a land border now face stricter government scrutiny. Overseas companies with up to 10% Chinese shareholding can invest via the automatic route, subject to limits. However, entities registered in China or other bordering nations require government approval. This change aims to regulate investments from neighboring countries.

As per the draft guidelines, a bona fide victim, being an individual person and having lodged a complaint involving gross loss of an amount up to Rs 50,000 on account of fraudulent electronic banking transaction (s), would be compensated 85% of the net loss amount (calculated after reducing recoveries made, whether before or after paying the compensation, from the gross loss amount), or Rs 25,000, whichever is less, once during his or her lifetime.

As the US-Israeli confrontation with Iran stretches into its third week, the repercussions are reverberating through the global oil markets. In a show of defiance, Iran has recently targeted both the UAE and Bahrain with drone strikes.

India's financial watchdog, NFRA, has released inspection reports on major audit firms. These reports highlight issues with audit independence, internal governance, and scrutiny of related-party transactions. The regulator aims to improve audit quality and protect investors. While some improvements were noted, further strengthening of controls is required across these firms.

The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry has approached the Reserve Bank of India. They are seeking increased credit for small businesses. The chamber also wants the RBI to resolve issues with letters of credit. Inconsistent handling of document discrepancies by banks is a concern. Unfair practices by rating agencies are also highlighted. Clearer guidelines for banks are requested.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized the Election Commission of India. She labeled the recent bureaucratic and police reshuffles as anti-Bengali and anti-women. Banerjee specifically highlighted the removal of the state's first woman chief secretary. She questioned the timing and nature of these decisions, asserting that the government in Bengal will not change.

Elizabeth Taylor was one of Hollywoods most famous actresses. She started acting as a child and later became known for big films like Cleopatra and Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf. Her life also included many marriages, health struggles and charity work. The famous star remained in the spotlight for decades and became an important figure in film history and humanitarian causes.

Fuel retailers are facing losses as pump prices remain low despite rising refining costs. Reports suggested state oil companies might pay less to other refiners. However, the government has not approved any decision on capping refinery prices. India has sufficient crude oil and refiners are working at high capacity.

Over 2,200 companies of central forces will secure West Bengal in every phase. Election officials will ensure accountability of law enforcement and poll staff for violence-free elections. Reports on illegal weapons and history-sheeters are being collected. Central forces will remain impartial and accept no hospitality. Past instances of compromise led to strict action.

Dubai's economy feels the heat from Iranian attacks. Businesses report supply chain snags and soaring costs. Freight and clearing charges have surged. Overseas suppliers demand upfront payments, hitting small firms hard. Dubai Chambers is engaging with members to assess the situation and explore support measures. The government is working to address these challenges.

As part of its efforts to guarantee free and fair elections, the Election Commission of India has enacted major personnel shifts within West Bengal's administration and police. Noteworthy replacements have been made, with the introduction of new leadership such as the chief secretary, home secretary, and director general. The Kolkata Police will also welcome a new commissioner.

ReNew has announced the sale of an 11% equity stake in its commercial and industrial power generation division, attracting $95 million from three strategic investors: Leapfrog Investments, Emerging Market Climate Action Fund, and Carlyle AlpInvest. This transaction values the division at an impressive $850 million and underscores the vital role of the C&I sector in India's journey towards decarbonization.

Imported fertilizer prices have surged 10-20 percent following the Iran war. This is impacting supplies of key farm nutrients. Indian companies are now increasing production of specialty fertilizers and enhancing stocks. Farmers are exploring cost-effective domestic options. Dealers are also stocking these products as a hedge against potential shortages.

Many homes with piped natural gas meters are not receiving gas. The regulator is urging city gas companies to fix this issue. This comes as the government encourages a shift from LPG cylinders to piped gas. Companies are offering incentives to encourage more users. The focus is now on activating existing connections rather than just adding new ones.

As tensions rise in West Asia, the urgency to transition from fossil fuels is becoming increasingly clear. A pivotal conference hosted by Colombia and the Netherlands is on the horizon, while Brazil is laying down a blueprint for an equitable energy transition. Meanwhile, India's focus could shift towards cutting down on oil and gas imports.

As tensions rise in critical maritime corridors, Indian warships are on high alert in the Strait of Hormuz, providing a protective shield for tankers and cargo ships destined for India. Under the banner of Operation Sankalp, this strategic deployment is pivotal for maintaining the security of vital energy supplies.

I don't care who you are, life has challenges, Tom Cruise quote highlights a universal reality: everyone faces obstacles, regardless of fame, wealth, or status. Cruise emphasizes that challenges are part of life and overcoming them builds resilience, strength, and character. This statement resonates because it reassures people that struggles are normal and shared by all, encouraging individuals to confront hardships with courage, determination, and perseverance for personal growth and success.

More than a thousand citizens in Ladakh's Leh and Kargil regions rallied on Monday, echoing calls for statehood and adherence to the Sixth Schedule. Leaders from the Apex Body Leh alongside the Kargil Democratic Alliance expressed their discontent regarding the central government's stance. Participants, brandishing pointed placards, highlighted the immediacy of their demands.

Jackie Chan, the global martial arts star, shares a powerful message. He states that in work and life, being a good person is as crucial as being smart, talented, or beautiful. Chan's own journey highlights discipline and humility. His philosophy reminds everyone that true achievement lies in character and how we treat others, not just fame or ability.

Quote of the day by Maya Angelou: Her quote on living a balanced life emphasizes embracing both joy and sorrow, fulfilling responsibilities, and having the courage to give and receive love. The influential writer and poet, known for her powerful works on identity and resilience, faced significant hardships that shaped her impactful literary career and activism.

The US is rallying international allies to secure oil tankers as Iran's menacing warning to close the Strait of Hormuz looms large. This threat is rattling the markets, driving oil prices higher, while some nations are reluctant to align with the American-led coalition. China is voicing its worries over trade impacts as the U.S.

Polyphiloprogenitive is a rare English word that describes someone or something that produces many offspring or results. The word has roots in Greek and Latin languages. It became known after appearing in a poem in 1919. Today, it is mainly used in vocabulary learning, language studies, and literature discussions to show how long and complex English words are formed.

India's horticulture production is set to remain steady in 2025-26. Vegetable output is expected to rise, driven by onions and potatoes. Fruit production will see a slight increase. Flower production may see a minor dip. Spice output is projected to grow significantly, with gains in cumin, ginger, garlic, and turmeric. This sector is crucial for boosting farmer incomes.