The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
Shreveport Louisiana Mass Shooting: The victims ranged in age from one to about 14 years old and some of the children were related to the suspect, as per reports.
India and Germany are set to sign a defence industrial cooperation roadmap. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's visit will focus on joint development and production of weapon systems. Discussions will also cover cyber security, artificial intelligence, and drones. A defence investor summit is planned to boost collaboration and investment in the defence sector.
Pahalgam's tourism is slowly reviving after a devastating attack last year. However, several tourist spots remain shut, affecting hundreds of pony wallas. Their earnings have drastically reduced. Hotel occupancy is low, and tourist stays are shorter. Security measures led to the closure of many sites. Authorities are working to reopen these areas, promising a return to normalcy.
Punjab Kings secured a commanding 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants. Punjab Kings posted a record 254 runs, driven by exceptional batting performances. Lucknow Super Giants' chase fell short despite some strong individual efforts. This win propels Punjab Kings to the top of the table. Lucknow Super Giants remain in the eighth position.
Israel and Argentina have launched direct flights connecting the two nations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Argentine President Javier Milei announced the new route. This initiative aims to deepen economic cooperation, facilitate business, and encourage tourism. The flights will make travel between the countries faster and more accessible.
Iran has not yet decided if it will join new talks with the United States. Local media reports suggest the atmosphere is not very positive for negotiations. Iran's state news agency points to US demands and contradictions. A US blockade on Iranian ports is cited as a precondition by some sources. Prospects for fruitful talks remain unclear.
India is pushing for quick progress on a key energy hub project in Sri Lanka. The proposed oil hub in Trincomalee is a strategic initiative involving India and the UAE. Officials met in Colombo to discuss accelerating the project. This development comes as global energy supplies face disruption. The hub aims to enhance regional energy security and cooperation.
An Iranian-origin businesswoman with US permanent residency has been arrested at Los Angeles International Airport. Shamim Mafi is accused of brokering arms deals involving Iranian drones, bombs, and ammunition for Sudan. Prosecutors state these transactions were linked to Sudan's ongoing civil conflict. Mafi allegedly used an Oman-registered company and routed deals through Turkey and the UAE to evade US detection.
The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Rishi Raj Singh, a director at political consultancy firm I-PAC. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged hawala transactions and money laundering. The agency previously arrested another I-PAC director, Vinesh Chandel, in connection with the case.
As the T20 series against South Africa unfolds, India grapples with setbacks after two consecutive defeats. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur champions the spirit of togetherness, urging her squad to come back stronger and embrace a winning mindset. With a focus on refining both death-over strategies and powerplay tactics, the team is ready to turn things around.
Tragedy struck Shreveport, Louisiana, as eight children lost their lives in a devastating domestic disturbance. The incident unfolded early Sunday morning, with victims aged one to fourteen. A total of ten individuals were shot across three locations. Authorities confirmed the suspected shooter was killed by police following a vehicle chase.
The government plans to continue the River Basin Management scheme from 2026 to 2031. A budget of Rs 2,183 crore is proposed. This initiative focuses on integrated water resource planning and development. It aims to address challenges in water-rich but underdeveloped regions, particularly in the North East and Jammu and Kashmir. The scheme will support irrigation, hydropower, and flood management.
Udhna railway station in Surat saw massive crowds of migrant workers on Sunday. Passengers faced heat and lacked facilities while trying to board trains for summer vacations. Police managed the situation. Western Railway stated arrangements were in place, with over 21,000 people travelling. Special trains were also operated.
The FBI and Justice Department are facing significant staff shortages. To address this, they are lowering hiring requirements and speeding up recruitment. This includes using social media and offering shorter training for new agents. Prosecutors are also being hired directly from law school. These changes aim to stabilize the workforce after a wave of retirements and resignations.
Creator Don Mancini has confirmed a new Chucky movie is coming. The film will pick up the story from Cult of Chucky and the recent television series. Jennifer Tilly, who plays Tiffany, also hinted at more adventures for the killer doll and her character. Mancini expressed gratitude for fan support as the franchise prepares for its next chapter.
The Income Tax Department has uncovered discrepancies in assets declared by TMC MLA Debashis Kumar. Seizures from his residence during recent raids revealed jewellery and bullion not matching his election affidavit. The department has reported these findings to the Election Commission. Investigations are ongoing into unaccounted money and asset increases.
Sufi teachings have long stressed introspection, self-awareness, and spiritual growth. Rather than focusing only on external success, Sufi philosophy encourages individuals to turn inward and cultivate their inner world.
An Amazon delivery driver's video showcasing a massive workload has gone viral. The clip reveals over 300 stops and 500 packages in a single shift. This has ignited discussions online about the pressures faced by gig economy workers. Many are questioning if such demands are sustainable or indicative of burnout. The debate highlights differing views on efficiency versus driver well-being.
Pakistan's central bank plans to settle a USD 1.5 billion loan with the United Arab Emirates by April 23. This move follows a USD 2 billion repayment to the UAE, supported by a USD 2 billion deposit from Saudi Arabia. The country anticipates a USD 1.2 billion disbursement from the International Monetary Fund.
According to The Express Tribune, Khanewal, a key wheat-producing region, has historically depended on manual harvesting, where large groups of labourers spent days cutting crops with sickles.
Iowa city shooting: No arrests had been made as of Sunday morning, according to a campus alert. Officers were responding to reports of a large fight when they heard shots being fired, police said.
A bouncer was arrested in Mumbai in connection with the drug overdose deaths at a concert. He allegedly allowed two individuals without tickets to enter the venue to sell drugs. This arrest brings the total number of people held in the case to ten. The victims, two MBA students, died after consuming alcohol and ecstasy pills. The investigation is ongoing.
US Vice President JD Vance will lead American delegates for talks with Iran in Pakistan. This comes after President Donald Trump stated he would not attend. The meetings aim to end the Middle East conflict before a ceasefire expires. Tensions are high as Iran allegedly violated the ceasefire. The US has threatened severe retaliation if a deal is not reached.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an unscheduled stop in Jhargram, West Bengal. He enjoyed jhalmuri, a popular street food. Bystanders were surprised as the PM approached the stall. Modi asked for the price and requested a tasty preparation. He paid the vendor and specifically asked for no salt. The Prime Minister later shared his experience on X.
Rajasthan is experiencing intense heatwaves. Kota recorded the highest temperature at 42.1 degrees Celsius. Other cities like Churu and Chittorgarh also saw temperatures soaring to 42 degrees Celsius. Many other parts of the state are facing maximum temperatures between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius. The heat is affecting daily life across the state.
Israel's Defence Minister has ordered the military to use full force in Lebanon. This directive applies even during the current ceasefire if Israeli soldiers face any threat. The army is also instructed to demolish booby-trapped structures and houses near the border. These actions aim to remove Hezbollah outposts and protect Israeli communities.
The weather remained mainly dry in Himachal Pradesh over the past 24 hours since Saturday evening, with traces of snowfall in Koksar, 7.8 mm of rain in Kukumseri and traces of rain in Keylong.
Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy achieved a career milestone of 200 T20 wickets. He reached this mark during the IPL 2026 match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. Chakaravarthy took three wickets in the game. Rajasthan Royals were restricted to 155/9. Kolkata Knight Riders need 156 runs to win.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged West Bengal voters to elect a BJP government. He promised direct benefits for farmers and accountability for the current administration. Modi pledged to eliminate middlemen and ensure fair prices for produce. A BJP government will focus on development and security for all citizens. The Prime Minister also assured better employment opportunities for the youth.
Quote of the day: As literature continues to shape conversations around mental health, personal growth, and emotional resilience, voices like Stephenie Meyers remain relevant. Her quote stands as a reminder that lifes most meaningful insights often emerge not in moments of ease, but in times when the path forward is hardest to see.
Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane has set a new IPL record for the most ducks as an opener. He was dismissed for a duck against Rajasthan Royals, marking his second consecutive duck. Rahane now has 12 ducks in this role. KKR bowlers performed well, restricting Rajasthan Royals to 155. KKR needs to chase 156 for a win.
Justin Bieber tour date related buzz has gripped the social media platforms after singer's Coachella weekend 2 performance.
In a heated exchange, US President Donald Trump labels Iran's actions as a breach of the ceasefire agreement, warning of severe repercussions including attacks on critical infrastructure like power plants and bridges if they don't comply. Meanwhile, his diplomatic team has embarked on a mission to Pakistan to navigate the escalating tensions.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called for a review of voter numbers in Lok Sabha constituencies. He stated that large electorates prevent MPs from serving their constituents effectively. Shah also urged support for a bill to implement a 33 percent reservation for women in legislatures by 2029.
Protests erupted in Imphal West after a bomb attack killed two children. Security forces used tear gas to control demonstrators. A women's group has called for a seven-day shutdown demanding arrests. The family of the victims rejected government compensation, seeking justice instead. The mother of the deceased children has returned to her maternal home.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Jhargram, West Bengal. He accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of neglecting tribal communities and women. Modi urged voters to support the BJP for development and to protect Bengal's heritage. He promised better electricity supply and benefits for tribal families. The upcoming elections are crucial for the state's future.
Attacking opposition parties including the Congress, Samajwadi Party, TMC and DMK, Adityanath said they were anti-women and their speeches and actions had exposed them.
American representatives will travel to Islamabad for talks with Iran. President Trump issued a strong warning of military action if Iran does not agree to a deal. He accused Iran of violating a ceasefire and attempting to close the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated that a US blockade is already in effect, causing significant daily losses for Iran.
India and Russia have entered into a reciprocal logistics agreement allowing up to 3,000 troops, naval ships, and aircraft to be stationed in each other's territories. This pact, effective January 12, 2025, aims to bolster long-term military cooperation, facilitate joint exercises, and enhance interoperability in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions.
After weeks of speculation, Netflix officially confirmed The Night Agent Season 4 on March 6, 2026, shortly after Season 3 premiered. Showrunner Shawn Ryan had earlier indicated that scripts were already in development well before the announcement.
A devastating explosion ripped through a firecracker factory in Kattanarpatti, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu on Sunday. The blast claimed the lives of 16 people and left six others injured. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his condolences and dispatched ministers to the site to oversee rescue efforts. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region.
A study at Sawai Man Singh Hospital reveals children's excessive mobile use leads to concentration issues, loneliness, and sleep problems. Many children spend hours on phones daily. This behavior causes irritability and reduced family interaction. Experts warn of psychological dependence. Parents are urged to set limits and encourage outdoor activities and reading to combat these trends.
Stepping away from arguments is often associated with strong psychological boundaries. These boundaries enable individuals to safeguard their mental and emotional well-being. By disengaging from toxic or one-sided exchanges, they avoid unnecessary stress and emotional exhaustion.
Family of TCS employee Raza Rafiq Memon claims internal rivalry and office politics are behind false sexual harassment and conversion allegations. Memon, a high performer and team leader, is among eight arrested, with his uncle alleging a conspiracy fueled by his success. TCS has suspended employees and is conducting an internal probe.
Nashik police secured custody of self-styled godman Ashok Kharat until April 23. This is the fifth sexual assault case against him. Kharat faces multiple charges including sexual assault and financial fraud. He allegedly used black magic and claimed divine powers. A Special Investigation Team is probing the cases. Kharat's connections with political leaders have also drawn attention.
Indian liver specialists warn that energy drinks are harming young livers. High caffeine and sugar levels in these beverages, along with alcohol and sugary drinks, create a serious risk. Doctors are seeing younger patients with liver problems. Urgent awareness campaigns and stricter regulations are needed. Lifestyle changes are crucial to prevent this rising health crisis.

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