The Economic Times

India is set to revise its inflation measurement, significantly reducing food's weight in the Consumer Price Index to 36.75%. This shift aims to stabilize inflation readings, impacting monetary policy. The updated basket will reflect current spending, incorporating rural rents and e-commerce prices for a more accurate economic picture.

The IRS says millions of Americans may be missing the Earned Income Tax Credit. This tax benefit gives extra cash to working people with lower income. Many skip it by mistake due to confusion or fast filing. The IRS is now asking taxpayers to check eligibility carefully and file correctly to avoid losing money.

Non-stop flights between Dhaka and Karachi are set to resume after more than ten years. A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight will land in Karachi on Thursday night. This marks a significant step in restoring air connectivity. The service will operate twice weekly. This development follows discussions to boost trade and ties between the two nations.

Videos of a glamorous Mar-a-Lago party spread rapidly online after coinciding with the killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. The timing ignited outrage as users contrasted luxury festivities with clips of the fatal shooting. Shared footage showed performers, champagne, and poolside spectacles, sparking accusations of insensitivity. Trump was not present at the occasion and later said an investigation was in progress.

Bridgerton Season 4 Part 1 Episode 1 to 4 ending explained covers Benedict Bridgerton and Sophies story, their meeting at the masquerade ball, class conflict, Lady Penwoods cruelty, Violets romance, and how Episode 4 ends on a major cliffhanger.

Bangladesh and China are set to establish a new unmanned aerial vehicle plant. This collaboration includes technology transfer and aims for self-reliance in drone production. The facility will initially produce medium altitude, long endurance UAVs with vertical take-off and landing capabilities. This move is expected to boost military operations and disaster management efforts in Bangladesh.

Yale University is now offering free tuition to families earning less than $100,000 annually, expanding its previous aid to households under $200,000. This move aims to educate exceptional students from all backgrounds, reinforcing the university's commitment to affordability. The initiative ensures cost will not be a barrier for promising students.

Quote of the day Rainer Maria Rilke: Life's journey is marked by unexpected turns, as poet Rainer Maria Rilke suggests. His quote, 'The purpose of life is to be defeated by greater and greater things,' isn't about failure but about growth. Embracing challenges like love, loss, and learning expands our inner selves, fostering resilience and wisdom.

Silver prices hit a historic $119.80, surging 65% in January 2026. This white metal rally has outperformed the S&P 500's 1.9% gain by over 30 times this month. Gold followed, smashing through $5,600. Citis $150 target hinges on a collapsing gold-silver ratio, now at a decade-low of 47:1. Structural shortages and Chinese export bans drive this parabolic gold on steroids phase.

U.S. stock index futures -- S&P 500, Dow Jones, Nasdaq -- today jumped as Wall Street investors eye big gains.

Iran has warned of a severe retaliation if attacked. This comes as the United States signals time is running out for a nuclear deal. The European Union is also set to designate Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist group. Regional powers are calling for calm and negotiations to prevent escalation. Turkey has offered to mediate between Washington and Tehran.

India must prioritize building robust national capabilities and economic sovereignty amidst a global landscape of shrinking rule-based trade, rising protectionism, and weaponized resources. The Economic Survey highlights the need for strategic indispensability and learning without dependence to navigate a world where economic interdependence is increasingly viewed as a vulnerability, advocating for 'Swadeshi' as a crucial policy lever.

Trump Accounts are new savings plans for U.S. children that start with a $1,000 government deposit. Parents can add money, and some employers are matching the amount. Big banks, tech firms, and fast-food companies have joined the push. Wealthy donors are also contributing to help kids build savings early.

India's economy is performing strongly. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated macroeconomic fundamentals are robust. The country has navigated global challenges. Potential GDP growth is now projected at 7 percent. The Economic Survey forecasts 6.8-7.2 percent growth for the next fiscal year. India remains the fastest-growing major economy.

During the recently-concluded World Economic Forum, Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren and state finance secretary Prashant Kumar spoke about moving beyond extraction-led growth toward capital efficiency, value addition, and faster job creation.

Jujutsu Kaisen modulo chapter release time: 'Jujustu Kaisen' revolves around the fight between the Jujutsu sorcerers and curses.

The PRAGATI platform has proven effective in clearing major hurdles for infrastructure projects. This government initiative allows for direct, real-time project reviews by the Prime Minister. Stakeholders from states and Union ministries participate in these reviews. Monitoring through PRAGATI has led to better project completion and control over delays and cost overruns.

Disney Cruise Line announces a major deal for families planning vacations. Passengers can receive 20% off select 2026 voyages. Additionally, each stateroom booked gets a $250 onboard spending credit. This credit applies to dining, spa treatments, merchandise, and shore excursions. The offer is valid for bookings made by March 29 for sailings between April and July.

A tunnel study is underway to bypass the Bandipur forest route and end the night travel ban. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has approved Rs 105 crore for four road projects in Wayanad. An expert committee has also submitted recommendations for landslides in Thamarassery Pass. Work on hairpin bends is expected by February 2027.

The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art will return three ancient sculptures to India. Research confirmed their illegal removal from Tamil Nadu temples. The sculptures include Shiva Nataraja, Somaskanda, and Saint Sundarar with Paravai. India will loan the Shiva Nataraja back to the Smithsonian for display.

Copper prices hit an all-time high of $14,125 per tonne this Thursday. This record-breaking rally stems from a perfect storm of tech demand and mining deficits. Speculators piled in after technical breakouts. AI data centres and electrification lifted long-term demand expectations. Mining supply remains tight due to disruptions and low ore grades. A weaker US dollar and tariff uncertainty added momentum, pushing copper to record highs. Investors are now treating the ed metal as a strategic asse

Dr Alok Chopra urges a shift in fitness goals for 2026. He states that true fitness is about strength, stamina, and how well the body functions daily, not just appearance or weight. People should focus on feeling energized and strong. Sustainable habits are better than quick fixes. This approach promotes long-term health and well-being.

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Stop fighting cravings with willpower alone. These seven nutrient-dense foods actually rewire your appetite hormones, keeping hunger at bay and eliminating those desperate reaches for junk. Science-backed, delicious, doable.

A Delhi court has acquitted Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena in a defamation case. Activist Medha Patkar had filed the case 25 years ago. The court stated that Patkar failed to prove her charges. This legal battle began in 2000. Saxena had also filed cases against Patkar. The court dismissed Patkar's plea to examine additional witnesses earlier.

Budget Expectation 2026: India is aggressively pursuing critical mineral security through its National Critical Mineral Mission, aiming to build a domestic value chain for lithium, rare earths, and other strategic minerals. The nation is focusing on both mining and recycling to ensure supply chain resilience and foster industrial leadership in emerging technologies.

India is closely watching attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. The government has repeatedly raised concerns with Dhaka. India expects Bangladesh's interim government to investigate these incidents thoroughly. Perpetrators of violence against minorities must be brought to justice. India's concerns have been conveyed at the highest political levels.

As the Union Budget nears, infrastructure remains key for India's 2047 vision. Public capital expenditure has doubled, driving growth. Future focus shifts from spending scale to outcomes, targeting food systems, healthcare, and energy security. Optimizing existing assets and institutionalizing monetization are crucial for smarter, more impactful infrastructure development.

Quote of the day today ultimately stands as both critique and caution. It invites individuals to examine not only the world around them, but their own assumptions and decisions.

H&M is looking to source more textiles from India. A new trade agreement with the European Union will remove tariffs on Indian textiles. This makes India a more appealing market for H&M. The company reported strong financial results for its fourth quarter.

A Delhi court has denied bail to three individuals accused in the larger conspiracy case related to the 2020 Delhi riots. Salim Malik, Athar Khan, and former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain sought bail citing parity with others granted relief by the Supreme Court. They face charges under the UAPA for their alleged involvement in the riots.

Nandan Nilekani urges India to prioritize AI for improving lives and economic growth. He advocates for a 'race to the top' in AI adoption, focusing on practical applications. Voice-based AI is highlighted as a key to digital equity, removing literacy barriers. Bengaluru is poised to become a global hub for intelligence-led innovation, with significant opportunities expected in the coming years.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for 2026-27 on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted this as a historic moment. Sitharaman will be the first woman finance minister to present the budget for nine consecutive years. This achievement marks a proud chapter in India's parliamentary history.

Tesla plans a massive investment boost, doubling its budget for autonomous vehicles, robots and AI. This comes despite recent weak financial results. The company is also investing heavily in Elon Musk's AI venture, xAI. Tesla aims for future abundance, but significant cash burn is expected this year as it shifts focus from car manufacturing to new technologies.

Aged 73, King Charles III became the oldest monarch ever crowned in British history and he often shares his thoughts and deep insights on life, experiences, and success. King Charles III's quote 'I learned the way a monkey learns: by watching its parents' means that learning happens mainly through observation and imitation, not formal teaching.

Word of the Day: In an era shaped by polarisation and entrenched viewpoints, obdurate has gained renewed relevance. Whether describing political standoffs, institutional resistance or personal relationships, the word succinctly captures the challenge of engaging with immovable positions.

Turkey will offer to mediate between Washington and Tehran. Iran's foreign minister visits Ankara on Friday. Turkey considers reinforcing its border security. This comes as US President Donald Trump threatened military action against Iran. Turkey opposes military intervention and supports dialogue to resolve tensions. Ankara is also assessing additional security measures along its border with Iran.

India faces a growing challenge with ultra-processed foods. The Economic Survey highlights rising obesity, especially in children. It proposes banning advertisements for these foods from morning to night. Restrictions on marketing infant milk are also suggested. This aims to curb unhealthy eating habits and improve public health across the nation.

India faces a complex global landscape. The Economic Survey 2025-26 advises a dual approach, balancing long-term goals with immediate needs. Building resilience and innovation are key. Policy credibility and discipline are now strategic assets. India must prioritize domestic growth and shock absorption. Generating foreign exchange is crucial to manage rising imports. Despite global challenges, India's strong fundamentals offer buffers.

During the presentation of the 2026-27 budget, Kerala's Finance Minister K N Balagopal emphasized the vital role of unity among Keralites for the state's advancement. As part of his vision, he launched a significant project focusing on documenting the state's diverse religious and cultural heritage.

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor met with party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. Tharoor stated all is good and he is on the same page with the leadership. The meeting followed reports of Tharoor being upset with the party. He clarified that the chief ministerial face for Kerala polls was not discussed. Tharoor expressed satisfaction with the constructive discussion.

The Economic Survey 2025-26 projects Indias GDP growth at 6.87.2% for 2026-27, following an estimated 7.4% in the current fiscal. Medium-term growth potential is raised to 7%, up from 6.5% in 2022-23, reflecting the cumulative impact of recent policy reforms.

The Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights the rapid expansion of unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) in Indian States, noting their significant impact on beneficiaries' incomes. However, it warns that their scale and persistence strain State finances, potentially crowding out crucial growth-enhancing public investments and leading to fiscal rigidity without consistently improving long-term outcomes.