The Economic Times

Asaduddin Owaisi has appealed to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He seeks the rescue of 16 Indian nationals. These individuals were promised jobs in Thailand. They are now enslaved on the Myanmar-Thailand border. Three of the victims are from Hyderabad. They face forced labor and physical punishment. Their passports and phones are confiscated. Medical facilities are denied.

Apple co-founder Steve Jobs' enduring mantra, 'Stay hungry, stay foolish,' champions relentless curiosity and bold risk-taking. This philosophy, born from his own journey of innovation, urges individuals to embrace learning, challenge norms, and pursue passions fearlessly. It's a powerful call to action for personal growth and creative breakthroughs.

As todays Word of the Day, sesquipedalian reminds us that language is elastic. It can be stretched, compressed, embellished or stripped bare.

Ten soldiers died and eleven were injured when an Army vehicle fell into a gorge in Doda district. The accident occurred on the Bhaderwah-Chamba interstate road. A joint rescue operation was launched immediately. Injured soldiers were airlifted for specialized treatment. Officials confirmed the fatalities and injuries. Leaders expressed grief and condolences to the families.

Eight Maoists, including a high-value target with a Rs 1 crore bounty, were eliminated in a fierce gunfight with security forces in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district. The intense exchange of fire occurred in the Saranda forest's Kumdi area. Patiram Majhi, also known as Anal Da, was among those killed.

After celebrating her sisters wedding and indulging in all the shaadi treats, Kriti Sanon is officially back to her fitness grind.

A Telangana government officer, Arramada Venkat Reddy, is under investigation for allegedly amassing assets worth over Rs 7 crore, disproportionate to his known income. The Anti-Corruption Bureau seized properties including houses, plots, and agricultural land, along with significant movable assets like cash and vehicles. The market value of these assets is estimated to exceed Rs 50 crore.

Rahul Gandhi asserted the Modi government's intent to dismantle MGNREGA mirrors the repealed farm laws. He urged rural workers to unite, drawing parallels with farmers' successful protest. Gandhi stated that collective action can force the government to reinstate MGNREGA in its original rights-based form. The Congress leader highlighted concerns over centralized control and reduced worker wages.

Jack Nicholson, a celebrated actor known for iconic roles, embodies a philosophy of continuous learning. His quote, 'The minute that you're not learning I believe you're dead,' emphasizes that lifelong curiosity and engagement with new ideas are essential for intellectual and emotional vitality, preventing stagnation and fostering adaptability throughout life.

TN election news: The Election Commission of India has allocated symbols to the political parties of actors Vijay and Kamal Hassan. Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam will use the whistle symbol. Kamal Hassan's Makkal Needhi Maiam received the battery torch symbol. Both parties are preparing to contest the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. They aim to challenge the ruling DMK party.

The Indian Air Force has released the AFCAT 1 Admit Card 2026 for Group 'A' Gazetted Officer posts. The online examination is scheduled for January 31, 2026, with candidates needing to download their admit cards from afcat.cdac.in. The exam will cover General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning, with a duration of two hours.

Security agencies are on high alert nationwide. Coded messages '26-26' suggest a possible threat linked to Republic Day 2026. Intelligence points to Pakistan-based terror groups planning coordinated strikes. A Kashmiri group has also issued threats. These warnings are being treated as a significant retaliatory move.

Gujarat Giants have signed Jintimani Kalita as a replacement for injured Titas Sadhu. Kalita joins the Giants from Mumbai Indians for the rest of the Women's Premier League season. Sadhu, who was acquired from Delhi Capitals, has not yet played a match. Kalita brings WPL experience to the Giants squad.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon had blunt feedback for what he called the Davos elite, and he is supposedly not happy with the job they are doing. The billionaire also commented on US President Donald Trump's proposal to cap credit card costs and called it an 'economic disaster'. He also said that the rollout of AI may need to be slowed to save society.

Karnataka BJP leaders B Y Vijayendra and R Ashoka defended Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot's decision to deviate from the government's prepared speech. They accused the ruling Congress of misusing the assembly and disrespecting the Governor and the Constitution. The BJP leaders demanded action against Congress MLAs and MLCs for their alleged misconduct during the Governor's address.

Former Union Minister Smriti Irani has secured USD 2 million in just two days for a USD 100 million fund aimed at supporting one lakh women-owned small businesses in India. This initiative, part of the Alliance for Global Good, also facilitated a USD 40 million investment in women's wellness based on Ayurvedic practices.

Mumbai police's Economic Offences Wing has filed a closure report in a case against Hemang Shah. The complaint was lodged by his elder brother, Mehul Jadavji Shah, alleging financial misappropriations. The police investigation concluded the complaint was neither true nor false. The court will hear the matter on April 9, 2026. The dispute involves the Shah family's business empire.

Families of 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims voiced anguish after former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar's acquittal in a Delhi court. Despite this, Kumar remains imprisoned for other convictions. Decades of grief persist for those who lost loved ones. They vow to continue their pursuit of justice through further appeals, highlighting the enduring pain and the long wait for closure.

Abhishek Sharmas traditional wardrobe proves that understated details can make a powerful statement. From pastel kurtas to mirror-work classics, these six looks redefine effortless festive dressing.

Aramco's chief Amin Nasser believes oil glut forecasts are overstated. He points to robust demand and falling global oil reserves. This contrasts with analyst predictions of a 2026 supply surplus. Production increases from the United States, OPEC+ and other nations are expected to drive this surplus. Oil prices have remained above $60 per barrel for most of 2025.

An Indian woman's story of being abandoned by her husband for a 3 crore property, leaving her to raise their son alone on a meager salary, has gone viral. Facing immense financial and emotional hardship, she eventually rebuilt her life overseas, now owning a home worth the same amount.

The Department of Posts aims for a significant 30% revenue growth to Rs 17,546 crore in FY26, a substantial jump from the modest 3% increase seen in FY25. Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted this ambitious target, emphasizing the department's goal to transition from a cost center to a profit center within the next 4-5 years.

Assistant Commandant Simran Bala makes history by leading an all-male contingent for the Central Reserve Police Force at the Republic Day parade. This appointment marks a significant milestone for the force. Bala, selected through a rigorous process, will command over 140 male personnel. Her leadership reflects a changing norm in uniformed services, with opportunities increasingly based on merit.

David Rubenstein of The Carlyle Group predicts India could become the world's largest economy within 20-30 years, citing its young, growing population as a key advantage over aging nations. While India's economy is already the fourth largest, sustained growth and strategic reforms are crucial to capitalize on this demographic dividend and achieve global economic dominance.

A lottery by the Maharashtra Urban Development Department has determined Mumbai's next mayor will be a woman from the general category. This decision faced opposition from former mayor Kishori Pednekar, who alleged rule changes and argued for an OBC or ST candidate, citing recent general category mayors.

Income tax news: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India has proposed optional joint taxation for married couples in its pre-budget suggestions for 2026. This move could simplify tax compliance and potentially reduce the tax burden for many households, especially single-earner families, by allowing them to file a single return.

Madhya Pradesh is being presented as a prime investment hub in India at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav highlighted the state's progressive policies and efficient working style, which have generated significant interest among international investors. The state is actively working to attract global capital, create employment opportunities for its youth, and leverage its resources effectively.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge claims the government's move to repeal MGNREGA is an attempt to remove Mahatma Gandhi's name from public memory. He asserted that the party will strongly raise this issue during Parliament's upcoming Budget session. Workers participated in a convention, symbolically planting soil from their work sites. The Congress has launched a campaign demanding the restoration of MGNREGA.

A row erupted after Nobel Peace Prize winner and Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said that Cuba and Nicaragua will be freed just like Venezuela. Venezuela was raided by the US military recently, in which their leader, Nicolas Maduro, and his wife were captured. The internet was quick to call out Maria Corina Machado for her remarks with users asking how did she win Nobel Prize.

Denmark has urged for constructive discussions regarding Greenland. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that while political aspects can be negotiated, Danish sovereignty is not up for debate. These remarks follow reports of US President Donald Trump's past consideration of acquiring Greenland. Denmark emphasizes that any dialogue must respect its territorial integrity, particularly concerning Arctic security.

Dhar district is on high alert as Basant Panchami coincides with Friday prayers at the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque. Thousands of police personnel are deployed to ensure peace. Both Hindu and Muslim communities are set to exercise their religious rights. The administration is working to uphold ASI orders and maintain communal harmony. Security measures include CCTV surveillance and drone monitoring.

As shared by Heena Trivedi, starting your day with a high-protein breakfast helps improve fat loss, energy levels, metabolism, and hormonal balance especially for women.

President Trump claimed the US used a secret, exclusive sonic weapon to capture Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro. He stated the US possesses unknown advanced weaponry, raising concerns about their power. Russia has requested more clarity from the US regarding this alleged sonic device.

The World Economic Forum in Davos this year is marked by an unusually large and diverse global presence, making it feel more like a convergence of world forums than a single conference. The US has expanded its visibility with two USA Houses, while G20 nations have a strong footprint, led by India with prominent sessions and a confident global pitch.

The United States is set to leave the World Health Organization on Thursday. This departure follows a notice given by President Donald Trump in 2025. US law mandates that all outstanding fees must be paid before exiting. The WHO has stated that fees for 2024 and 2025 remain unpaid.

The Supreme Court has permitted Hindu prayers at the Bhojshala complex from sunrise to sunset on Basant Panchami, while allowing Muslim namaz between 1 pm and 3 pm. The court also mandated a list of Muslim attendees for the district administration and urged mutual respect for law and order.

An 18-year-old girl was killed after being hit by an overspeeding SUV on Express Highway near Shanti Bagh under the Kardhani police station area on Tuesday. The victim, Anaya Sharma from Jhunjhunu district, was living in Jhotwara and was preparing for a physical test for the armed forces.

Software engineers now need AI skills. Companies expect engineers to use AI tools for faster development and better code. Interviews have changed, with AI now part of live coding. System design and behavioral rounds also include AI integration. Aspiring engineers should combine core engineering with AI expertise to be competitive.

A viral Instagram video showcasing a Mumbai apartment with a kitchen and bathroom facing each other, reportedly priced at Rs 1.25 crore, has reignited debate over the city's unaffordable and cramped housing. The compact layout of the well-kept flat has stunned viewers, highlighting the extreme challenges faced by residents in finding affordable homes amidst limited land and soaring prices.

In a disturbing incident, a South Korean businesswoman was allegedly groped at the Kempegowda International Airport on Monday by an airline staff. The woman claimed that the accused allegedly touched, hugged, and thanked her on the pretext of manual frisking. The accused, identified as Mohammed Affann Ahmed, has been arrested after the woman alerted the airport authorities.

A fresh encounter erupted in Kishtwar's higher reaches on Thursday as security forces engaged terrorists in dense forests. The ongoing operation, launched Sunday, has already resulted in one paratrooper's death and seven soldiers injured. Two to three Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists are believed to be trapped.

Dhurandhar 2 is generating buzz with Vicky Kaushal reportedly returning as Major Vihaan Shergill. This move suggests a larger cinematic universe is being built. Akshaye Khanna is also expected to feature in flashback scenes. The film, starring Ranveer Singh, is set for a March 19, 2026 release.

European leaders were warned at Davos that the US can no longer be relied on as Europes primary security guarantor, underlining the need for stronger military and financial cooperation within the region. While leaders acknowledge the shift, Europes response remains slow and fragmented due to national control over defence and fiscal policy, resulting in duplication, high costs, and continued dependence on the US for key capabilities.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiran Rijiju will hold an all-party meeting on January 27. This meeting precedes the upcoming Budget Session. The session begins on January 28 and concludes on April 2. The Union Budget 2026-27 will be presented on February 1. The President will address both Houses to formally start the session.

The Supreme Court will hear a final appeal from Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Mohammad Arif. He was sentenced to death for the 2000 Red Fort attack. Three Army soldiers died in that incident. The court previously rejected his appeal and review petition. This curative plea is his last legal option. The attack occurred on December 22, 2000, inside the Red Fort.