The Economic Times

A Gurugram-based software engineer, Priyanka Giri, has gone viral after sharing how she landed a job at Google following four months of unemployment and rejections from Microsoft and Meta. In a candid video, she pushed back against the belief that getting into top tech firms is nearly impossible, urging jobseekers not to self-reject before even trying. While acknowledging that luck plays a role, she stressed that consistent effort and applying without hesitation are key.

Gujarat conducted local body elections on Sunday. Amid temperatures as high as 44 degrees Celsius, three individuals, including a Jamnagar Municipal Corporation candidate, died of heart attacks. The BJP secured 733 seats uncontested.

London Marathon results saw history was made as Sabastian Sawe finished the event in record time.

Recent strikes across Ukraine and Russia have claimed at least 16 lives. Attacks hit Dnipro, Sevastopol, and Luhansk. Ukraine also struck an oil refinery in Yaroslavl. The Chernobyl disaster anniversary brought renewed warnings about attacks near the nuclear plant. Repairs to the plant's damaged shell are urgently needed.

Tornado warning: Elevated storms with large hail will be possible today from Northern Kansas into northwest Missouri. The more substantial severe-weather threat is expected tonight across central/eastern Kansas into northwest Missouri or southeast Nebraska.

A Noida-based software developers eight-hour ordeal at a walk-in interview has gone viral, highlighting concerns over poor hiring practices and lack of professionalism in the tech industry. Attending a recruitment drive offering Rs 3 LPA, the candidate cleared multiple rounds alongside nearly 100 applicants, only to face long delays and minimal communication before the final CEO round.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Hezbollah's actions are jeopardizing the ceasefire with Lebanon. He pledged to vigorously target the Iran-backed group. Israel has been striking targets in southern Lebanon almost daily. The military intercepted drones and issued evacuation orders for villages. Lebanon reported seven deaths from Israeli strikes on Saturday. A ceasefire was recently extended for three weeks.

Uttar Pradesh's Ganga Expressway project is nearing completion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the massive infrastructure development on April 29. This expressway, costing approximately Rs 37,000 crore, is divided into four packages for rapid progress.

The Uttar Pradesh government is transforming the Ganga Expressway into an industrial corridor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the expressway on April 29. Twelve industrial nodes are planned along the 594-km route. This initiative aims to boost manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics. It will connect 12 districts, fostering economic growth and reducing regional disparities.

A new study published in the BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care journal suggests that doctors may be able to predict whether a patient is likely to die within 24 hours using a simple bedside test. The research found that the absence of the corneal reflex, the eyes automatic blink response, is strongly linked to imminent death, with patients showing no reflex being significantly more likely to die within a day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Sikkim from April 27 to attend the closing ceremony of its 50th statehood anniversary. He will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for development projects exceeding Rs 4,000 crore, focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, education, and tourism, aiming for holistic growth in the state.

Police in Kolkata found approximately 100 crude bombs at a residence in Bhangar. The house belonged to an individual reportedly affiliated with the TMC. This discovery occurred just days before the second phase of the West Bengal assembly elections. Authorities have issued stern warnings to police officials regarding any future incidents of explosives or threats within their jurisdictions.

President Donald Trump's ambitious Golden Dome missile defence system faces significant hurdles. Concerns are mounting over its massive cost, estimated between $185 billion and $3 trillion. Lawmakers are questioning the funding strategy, with some Republicans expressing reservations. The Pentagon is seeking substantial funds for the project, which aims to counter intercontinental ballistic missiles and drones.

Air India is embracing artificial intelligence to transform its operations. The airline is using AI to cut costs, improve customer service, and boost revenue. Generative AI is helping validate pilot duty norms and automate tasks. AI is also empowering employees, changing job roles. This technology adoption is a key part of Air India's ambitious transformation plan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on citizens to make Census 2027 a success. He assured that all shared information is secure and confidential. The census is now digital, with a self-enumeration option available. India is also making strides in nuclear, solar, and wind energy, benefiting various sectors.

Odisha government will issue fewer cordon passes for the upcoming Rath Yatra. This decision aims to prevent overcrowding near the chariots. The move follows an incident last year where three people died. Preparations are underway for the festival starting July 16. Arrangements for security, crowd management, and infrastructure are being finalized.

A Bengaluru-based techie working at Google shared an emotional video of taking his grandfather to his office campus, turning a simple visit into a deeply personal moment. From having lunch together to cycling around, the day brought back childhood memories, especially since his grandfather had once taught him how to ride a bicycle. Reflecting on the experience, he said his grandfathers smile and pride meant more than any achievement.

AIESL, a state-owned MRO provider, is expanding its Nagpur facility. The company seeks to serve more international airlines and is pursuing EASA approval for Airbus base maintenance. A recent success involved reviving an Air India Boeing 777 after six years. AIESL is also exploring passenger-to-freighter conversions for Boeing 777s at the Nagpur site.

Sunita Ahuja surprised everyone on Laughter Chefs Season 3. She met her nephew, Krushna Abhishek. This marked a heartfelt reunion after years of distance. Krushna touched her feet in a gesture of respect. Kashmera Shah also reacted to it. Sunita confirmed the family has moved past their differences. This moment brings closure to a long-standing feud.

Information on Russian oil imports to India is being withheld. The Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell cited commercial and confidential reasons. The Central Information Commission supported this, citing strategic and economic interests. Details of crude oil imports between June 2022 and June 2025 remain undisclosed. The Commission also noted issues with the PPAC website's transparency.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced a Free Trade Agreement with India will be signed Monday. This landmark deal opens one of the world's largest markets to New Zealand exporters. The agreement provides unprecedented access to India's 1.4 billion people and its fast-growing economy. It is expected to boost incomes, create jobs, and strengthen New Zealand's global competitive position.

Democrats face a strategic dilemma. Some push to address President Trump's fitness for office, while others urge a focus on the economy. Many believe economic concerns resonate more with voters. Republicans see an opportunity if Democrats emphasise Trump's removal. Democrats are weighing these approaches as they campaign for upcoming elections.

A young mother received a new lease on life after a successful bilateral hand transplant. The complex 12-hour surgery was performed by specialists at a private hospital. This marks a significant achievement in reconstructive microsurgery. The patient lost her hands in an accident. Donor family's generosity made this possible. The hospital thanked the donor family for their life-changing decision.

Tension flared in Bhabanipur as rival rallies by Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari led to a confrontation. BJP leader Ram Kripal Yadav accused Banerjee of seeking anarchy amid anticipated election defeat. Supporters clashed with slogans, requiring police intervention. Polling for the second phase is set for April 29.

India's wheat output for the 2025-26 crop year is stable. The agriculture ministry assures resilience despite unseasonal rains and hailstorms. Increased acreage and better seed varieties are offsetting localized damage. Procurement data from key states shows healthy production. The overall scenario remains strong and steady.

A devastating house fire in Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, claimed the lives of three adults early Saturday morning. Responding RCMP officers and Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency crews were met with intense smoke upon arrival. Despite immediate efforts, the three individuals could not be saved. The incident remains under investigation.

Singer Sonu Nigam encountered fans in Rotterdam who were playing his song en route to his concert. He joined them in singing, sharing a heartwarming moment before his show. In a separate note, Nigam also expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of legendary singer Asha Bhosle, celebrating her immense contribution to Indian film music.

State-owned NTPC is planning two 700 MW nuclear units in Bihar's Banka district. This project could involve an investment of Rs 25,000 crore. NTPC officials are currently conducting a feasibility study. The Bihar government has assured full support. This move aligns with India's ambition for 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047. NTPC aims for 2 GW nuclear capacity by 2032.

Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur shared a thought-provoking reflection after a trip to Mussoorie. A photograph of mountain peaks taken there bore a striking resemblance to Kedarnath. This coincidence, coupled with a planned trip to Kedarnath, led Kapur to ponder the nature of destiny and time. His thoughts weave science and spirituality, questioning if events are truly random or preordained.

Sri Lanka is seeking investors for Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. The airport has been a financial drain since opening in 2013. A previous lease agreement with an Indo-Russian venture did not materialize. The government highlights the airport's potential for tourism and strategic investment. This move comes as Sri Lanka privatizes state-owned enterprises following a financial crisis.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of nuclear terrorism. This comes as Ukraine marked the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster. Russia launched over a hundred drones overnight, killing three people. Zelensky stated that Russia's invasion is bringing the world to the brink of disaster. He urged the world to stop Russia's reckless attacks.

The music from India's Beating Retreat ceremony is now accessible on WAVES OTT. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced this initiative, stating it will also be available on other platforms soon. This move aims to showcase the rich musical traditions of the armed forces.

The National Green Tribunal has sought responses from the Centre and other bodies concerning the danger posed by hanging glaciers in the central Himalayas. A recent study highlighted unstable glaciers on steep slopes, warning of potential avalanches and downstream disasters, with a sharp rise in human exposure due to development in high-altitude areas.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Sunday he was shocked by a shooting at a Washington media gala, adding it was a huge relief that President Donald Trump and others were unharmed. Any attack on democratic institutions or on the freedom of the press must be condemned in the strongest possible terms, Starmer said on X. Starmer sent a message Sunday to Trump in solidarity for the events that took place, senior minister Darren Jones told UK broadcasters during a round of interviews.

DMIL CEO: Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has launched Delhi Metro International Limited. Sanjay Jamuar is its first Chief Executive Officer. This new arm will manage metro projects and operations outside Delhi and in foreign countries. DMIL will offer advisory services for transit systems. It builds on DMRC's extensive experience. DMRC is already involved in projects in Bangladesh, Chennai, Mumbai, and Patna.

Global rap star Eminem reveals the complex reality of fame. Success brought recognition but also a struggle for personal space. He desired artistic respect over public attention. This internal conflict shaped his music and public persona. Eminem's journey highlights the human cost of stardom and the desire for a private life amidst constant observation.

India and New Zealand are set to sign a free trade agreement on April 27. This pact will significantly boost bilateral trade. Indian companies, especially leather exporters from Agra, will gain duty-free access to New Zealand markets. The agreement aims to double trade and attract substantial investment over fifteen years.

Quote of the Day: Eddie Rickenbacker, a World War I fighter ace, defined courage as acting despite fear. He believed true bravery emerges when one confronts their fears. Rickenbacker's life, filled with high-risk situations, shaped this perspective. His experiences highlight that facing challenges builds resilience. He earned the Medal of Honor and became an aviation pioneer. His legacy inspires many.

David Hume's philosophy posits that beauty resides not in objects, but within the mind of the beholder. This subjective experience, shaped by emotions and personal history, explains diverse aesthetic preferences. The Scottish philosopher's idea challenges modern beauty standards, emphasising individual perception and the value of varied viewpoints.

The Supreme Court has clarified a significant legal point. A court possesses the authority to deny anticipatory bail to an accused individual. However, it lacks the jurisdiction to mandate that the accused surrender before the trial court. This ruling stems from a case where the Jharkhand High Court had directed an accused to surrender after rejecting his bail plea.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt's remark about shots fired during President Trump's address gained a chilling significance after an armed attacker opened fire at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. The incident, which occurred near the event's screening area, triggered panic and a swift security response, with the suspect apprehended unharmed.

TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna revealed party chief Vijay directed candidates to monitor EVM strong rooms. Elections concluded on April 23 with high turnout. Candidates will inspect strong rooms on rotation. Arjuna urged transparent counting and adequate security for May 4. He anticipates a democratic victory for TVK, predicting a government change based on people's verdict.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Rabindranath Tagore's legacy on his birth anniversary. He noted Tagore's role in shaping institutions and promoting sustainable industries. Modi also spoke about an organization in Chile spreading Buddha's teachings. He emphasized the relevance of compassion and peace for the future. The Prime Minister mentioned efforts in India connecting people with nature.

Public sector banks must begin wage revision talks for employees and officers. Negotiations for the 13th Bi-partite settlement are to be finalised within a year. This wage revision is due from November 1, 2027. The government emphasises timely conclusion to maintain industrial harmony.

West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Dum Dum Uttar constituency is no longer a guaranteed win for the TMC. Senior minister Chandrima Bhattacharya faces a tough contest. The BJP's growing presence and public discontent over civic issues like waterlogging and poor roads have intensified the election. New candidates from the BJP and CPI(M) are adding to the competition. The election is set for April 29.

President Trump and First Lady Melania were urgently escorted out of the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on April 25, 2026, after a man armed with a shotgun tried to breach security. Guests took cover amid chaos as Secret Service agents drew guns and evacuated top officials including Mike Johnson and RFK Jr. Suspect Cole Tomas Allen was detained.

Reliance Industries navigated a volatile energy market in FY26 by diversifying crude sourcing and maintaining operational agility. The company replaced disrupted Persian Gulf contracts and worked on alternative routes for stranded crude, ensuring refinery operations were sustained amidst geopolitical challenges and cost swings.