The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
As FY26 enters its final quarter, India's manufacturing sector showcases a resilient spirit, buoyed by stable production outputs and a hopeful perspective on domestic demand. While input costs are on the rise, the investment climate stays encouraging. Plans for expanding capacity are in motion, although challenges such as geopolitical tensions and labor shortages loom.
Shashi Shekhar Vempati ascends to the role of chairperson for the Central Board of Film Certification, following in the footsteps of Prasoon Joshi, who has transitioned to head Prasar Bharati.
Operation Sindoor, a swift military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, showcased strong coordination among India's Army, Navy, and Air Force. The operation successfully targeted terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This led to a four-day conflict, with India conducting retaliatory strikes. A ceasefire was agreed upon, ending hostilities and preventing further loss of life and infrastructure.
A fading geomagnetic storm offers one more chance to catch the Northern Lights on the night of May 6, 2026. While solar activity is decreasing, viewers in higher latitudes still have a window for aurora sightings under dark, clear skies. Heres everything you need to know to maximise your chances.
India will not restrict sugar exports currently. Lower production is expected, but stable prices indicate weaker demand is balancing the shortfall. The government believes supplies remain sufficient. Fresh export deals have slowed due to firmer local prices and global disruptions. India's sugar output is projected to match consumption for the 2025-26 season.
India's food reserves are robust. Wheat and rice stocks in FCI godowns are nearly three times the mandatory buffer. This ensures ample supply for welfare schemes. Procurement for the next season is underway. Harvests are progressing well, with most rabi commodities trading below minimum support prices. This situation provides food security for the nation.
A viral post by Dr Josh Axe on Instagram is pushing a proactive approach to health, where an anti-cancer diet is followed not as a cure, but as a preventive lifestyle. His philosophy centres on eating whole, nutrient-rich foods that stabilise blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and strengthen immunity, ultimately shifting the focus from reacting to illness to preventing it through consistent, mindful eating habits.
Indian banks face an unprecedented five-week halt in gold and silver imports, causing domestic prices to surge and threatening shortages. Administrative hurdles and tax uncertainties have stalled shipments since April 1, impacting jewelers restocking after Akshaya Tritiya. While the India International Bullion Exchange offers an alternative, it's slower and capital-intensive.
Word of the Day: As language evolves to meet the demands of speed and simplicity, words like circumambient preserve a sense of its original richness. They encourage speakers to slow down, observe more closely and express experiences with greater precision.
India's export landscape witnessed an extraordinary transformation in 2025-26, as figures climbed to an astounding USD 863.11 billion. Amidst a backdrop of challenging global economic conditions, the country demonstrated resilience with a slight gain in merchandise exports. However, the real standout was the services sector, which saw exports reach an exhilarating peak.
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing would play a greater role in ending hostilities in the Middle East during talks with his Iranian counterpart on Wednesday, a week before US President Donald Trump is due to meet Xi Jinping. China will work harder to ease tensions and end the fighting, continue to support the launch of peace talks, and play a greater role in restoring peace and tranquility to the Middle East, Wang told Iran's Abbas Araghchi in Beijing.
jacresults.com JAC 12th Result 2026 Declared: The Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) has announced the Class 12 board exam results for 2026 on May 6. Students can check their scorecards online and via DigiLocker, with a minimum of 33% required to pass. The board also offers improvement exams for theory papers and has outlined its grading system.
R Madhavan's son, Vedaant, leads a highly disciplined life, waking at 4:30 AM for rigorous swimming training alongside his schooling. A multi-medal winner at international events, he is dedicated to achieving an Olympic medal, crediting his parents' unwavering support for his journey. He trains twice a day and follows a very disciplined routine.
The new West Bengal government will take its oath on May 9. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 10 am at Brigade Parade Ground in central Kolkata. This marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape. The Bharatiya Janata Party secured a decisive victory in the recent assembly elections.
Abhay Gupta from Sidhi district, Madhya Pradesh, achieved an impressive 498/500 in his Class 10 state board exams, securing the second rank. Despite living in a dilapidated house and his father being a daily wage labourer, Abhay's discipline and consistency led to his success. His story highlights resilience and the power of persistence over privilege.
The Boys Season 5 marks the final chapter of the hit superhero satire, bringing years of blood-soaked storytelling to a high-stakes conclusion. Premiering on Amazon Prime Video on April 8, 2026, the season debuted with its first two episodes before moving to a weekly release schedule.
In Haryana's Nuh, numerous government primary schools lack buildings, forcing children to learn in cattle sheds, open fields, and village chaupals. Despite students' eagerness, dire conditions with no toilets, drinking water, or adequate teachers hinder education. Land for new schools is identified but construction remains stalled, leaving young minds in a precarious learning environment.
The BJP has criticized the Congress for its decision to support TVK in Tamil Nadu, stating it signals the INDIA alliance's collapse. The party claims the opposition bloc lacks common ideology and is disintegrating. The DMK also described the Congress move as a 'backstab'. These developments follow the recent assembly election results in Tamil Nadu.
A nationwide free annual health check-up initiative for workers aged 40 and above will launch on May 7, 2026. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will inaugurate the program from New Delhi. This initiative, part of new Labour Codes, aims to strengthen social security and worker well-being. It will be rolled out across 11 ESIC hospitals.
Washington is reportedly nearing a breakthrough with Tehran on a preliminary deal to de-escalate tensions and pave the way for nuclear talks. The proposed one-page memorandum of understanding includes Iran halting nuclear enrichment, the US lifting sanctions and releasing frozen funds, and both nations easing Strait of Hormuz transit restrictions. Iran's response is anticipated within 48 hours.
Dhanalekshmi DL-51 lottery results for Wednesday, 6 May 2026, have been officially declared by the Kerala State Lotteries Department. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for a chance to win the 1 crore first prize along with other attractive cash rewards across multiple prize tiers.
TMC alleged BJP supporters used a bulldozer to demolish meat shops in New Market during a victory celebration, calling it hooliganism and accusing central forces of inaction. The party claimed this incident reflected a pattern of intimidation following election results, while the BJP denied supporting violence.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned US-Israel military actions as illegitimate during talks with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi in Beijing. The meeting, part of Tehran's broader diplomatic tour, focused on a regional ceasefire, maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, and strengthening strategic ties.
Uttar Pradesh is witnessing significant growth in its defence sector. Investment proposals exceeding Rs 35,000 crore are being realized across six defence industrial corridors. These corridors are becoming hubs for various defence manufacturing, including small arms, ammunition, missiles, and advanced engineering.
The Bar Council of India has approached the Chief Justice of India. This follows a disturbing incident where an Andhra Pradesh High Court judge reportedly sent a young advocate to 24-hour judicial custody. The judge's action was reportedly for a procedural lapse during a hearing. The Bar Council has requested immediate intervention and administrative action.
Punjab blasts: Police are investigating low-intensity blasts in Amritsar and Jalandhar. Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav suspects Pakistan's ISI is behind the incidents, aiming to disrupt peace. Forensic teams and the National Investigation Agency are gathering evidence. Security agencies are working with the army to understand the blasts' origin and nature. The incidents have raised concerns about state stability.
Congress leadership has directed the TNCC to decide on TVK chief Vijay's request for support in government formation, prioritizing secular governance and opposing BJP influence. This move has irked the DMK, a key ally, after the recent Assembly elections.
Following the change in West Bengal's leadership, two former chief secretaries, Alapan Bandyopadhyay and H K Dwivedi, have resigned as chief advisors to the outgoing Chief Minister. Eminent economist Abhirup Sarkar also stepped down from his positions. These resignations come after the BJP's significant victory, ending the TMC's long tenure.
Tamil Nadu election result: AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan confirmed momentum with TVK, stating the high command will decide on an alliance. Meanwhile, DMK spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai attacked Congress, calling their potential support for TVK a ackstabber move. Tamil Nadu Governor accepted MK Stalin's resignation. The emergence of TVK signals a significant shift in voter sentiment.
CBSE 12 Results 2026 Date: CBSE Class 12 results for 2026 are anticipated in the third week of May, with the evaluation process nearing completion. Students can access their scores on official websites like cbseresults.nic.in and cbse.gov.in using their roll numbers. Marksheets will also be available on DigiLocker and the UMANG app for easy download and future reference.
Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) Class 12 results are anticipated soon, with DigiLocker alerts suggesting a potential release without prior notice. Following a similar pattern to the Class 10 results, students should be prepared to check their scorecards on official portals or via SMS. While streams might be released together, students are advised to stay alert and regularly check official sources.
A remarkable discovery of 409 gold coins, hidden for over a century, was unearthed beneath a house in Torzhok, Russia. The coins, dating from 1848 to 1911, were found in a ceramic pot during rescue excavations. Experts believe they were hidden during the 1917 Russian Revolution, but the owner's identity remains a mystery.
A viral trend is reviving the charm of early 2000s digital camera aesthetics, embracing imperfection with grainy, overexposed, and softly blurred photos. This nostalgic look, achieved through AI prompts, offers a comforting escape from modern digital perfection, celebrating candid moments and a simpler era.
India's economy faces challenges from the West Asia conflict. Rising oil prices and trade disruptions are impacting India. However, strong domestic demand and stable financial conditions provide resilience. The government and Reserve Bank of India are taking steps to manage risks. India is better prepared than in past crises. Structural reforms are key for future growth.
The Nagaland State Lottery Sambad Dear 1PM Wednesday Weekly draw results for 6 May 2026 have been declared. The first prize winner takes home Rs 1 Crore. Check the full list of winning numbers for the 6 May 2026 draw.
Enterprises has filed a caveat before the Supreme Court anticipating a challenge by Vedanta against the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal's (NCLAT) verdict upholding Adani Group's resolution plan for debt-ridden Jaiprakash Associates Ltd (JAL).
A recent analysis highlights that stringent regulations on fasteners, a seemingly minor expense, are leading to significant production hurdles. These limitations are driving up costs and limiting available supply, adversely affecting sectors such as automotive and construction. The 'Make in India' initiative is under considerable threat. The report advocates for a more straightforward, risk-focused approach for essential safety components.
A recent food safety scare has put the spotlight on reused cooking oil risks after a KFC outlet in Kondapur, Hyderabad was reportedly found using degraded oil with unsafe Total Polar Compounds (TPC) levels during an inspection. Repeated heating of oil increases TPC, making it harmful, with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India setting a 25% safety limit. High TPC levels are linked to serious health risks like hypertension, heart disease, and liver damage, raising concerns over food sa
Actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has emerged as the largest party in Tamil Nadu. The party leveraged social media and its extensive fan network for its campaign. Vijay's strategy involved limited traditional media interaction. This approach focused on key issues and voter engagement. The party's success highlights a new political landscape in the state.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru seek to recover their batting form against Lucknow Super Giants. RCB, currently second, faces a struggling LSG side. RCB's batting faltered in their last match. LSG has lost five of their last six games. This encounter promises an exciting contest as both teams vie for crucial points.
A 27-year-old man from a wealthy family has posted on Reddit offering 6,000 per month for regular conversations to combat his loneliness. He wants emotional support during his office commute, lunch, and before sleep, with strict conditions including a calm voice and no conflict.
America wants Iraq's new prime minister, Ali al-Zaidi, to take clear steps. These steps must separate the Iraqi state from Iran-backed armed groups. Only then will financial shipments and security aid resume. The US wants militias out of state institutions and their funding cut. This is crucial for rebuilding trust and support.
Speaking at the University of the West Indies in Kingston, on Tuesday, as part of his three-nation official visit to the Caribbean, on the theme A World in Transition, Jaishankar said the international system is undergoing extraordinary times, driven by ongoing conflicts, economic disruptions and technological change.
Palash Muchhal has reportedly landed in legal trouble in Sangli after a complaint was filed over alleged casteist remarks during an argument at a toll plaza. Police have registered a case under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, with multiple media reports confirming that due process is underway. Reports also link the dispute to an alleged Rs 25 lakh financial disagreement, while the case has brought renewed attention to his past relationship with Smriti Mandhana.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticizes West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. She refused to resign after her party's election defeat. Pradhan stated this rejects the people's mandate. He accused her of treating power as an entitlement. He believes her actions undermine democratic institutions. The article highlights the political tension following the election results.
Tamil Nadu elections: Actor Vijay's new party, TVK, has won big in state polls. This victory breaks the old two-party rule. Upset AIADMK leaders may support Vijay. The DMK is angry with the Congress for possibly backing TVK. Governor Rajendra Arlekar accepted the DMK government's resignation. Vijay has asked to meet the Governor. The future government's shape is now uncertain.

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