The Economic Times

The Competition Commission of India is enhancing its capabilities to understand digital markets and artificial intelligence. The regulator is hiring data scientists and analysts with expertise in AI tools and digital market operations. This move aims to strengthen the CCI's oversight. The CCI is also increasing approvals for non-problematic transactions through an automated route.

India's research and development spending lags behind global leaders. A Niti Aayog report highlights funding issues and bureaucratic delays. The report suggests increasing R&D investment to 2% of GDP. It also calls for streamlining processes and boosting manpower. Reforms aim to enhance India's research landscape and competitiveness.

India's sugar industry seeks permission for additional exports. This follows a recent ban on overseas shipments. The industry needs to honor existing contracts with international buyers. The government imposed the ban due to concerns over El Nino and rising domestic prices. This move aims to ensure sufficient sugar for local consumption and build buffer stocks for the next year.

Chinese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Women hold up half the sky. The saying emphasizes the essential role women play in society, family life, leadership, and progress. It reflects the belief that the world cannot function or advance without the contributions, strength, and efforts of women. The proverb also promotes the idea of equality, suggesting that women deserve the same recognition, opportunities, and respect as men in every aspect of life.

The Supreme Court has dismissed a public interest litigation. The plea sought to exclude caste enumeration from the population census. A three-member bench stated this falls within the government's policy domain. The court refused to intervene in the matter. The bench noted that governments need such data for welfare measures. The plea was dismissed.

A broad measure of public expenditure fell 7.3% from a year ago, accelerating from the 2.5% decrease in March to mark its sharpest decline since October, according to Bloomberg calculations based on Ministry of Finance data released Wednesday. By contrast, broad fiscal revenue rose 2%.

Taiwan has strongly rejected discriminatory remarks made by a local election candidate. The candidate had vowed to ban Indian immigrants from Taiwan. Taiwan's mission in New Delhi stated that the nation cherishes democracy, inclusivity, and diversity. It supports people-to-people exchanges. This reaffirmation comes after the candidate displayed a billboard with his anti-immigrant pledge.

West Bengal will now identify, remove, and deport illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. This policy excludes Hindu refugees and others eligible under the Citizenship Amendment Act. The state government is also implementing the CAA. Land has been handed over to the Border Security Force for fencing. This move aims to enhance national security and border management.

Tangkhul Naga villagers sought security from Manipur's Chief Minister following attacks. They requested police forces and essential supplies. The United Naga Council is asking for details on missing hostages. Meanwhile, the Kuki Inpi Manipur extended a shutdown in Kuki-Zo areas. Peace remains a key focus for the state.

Iran, which has attacked vessels to assert control over the Strait, has expanded its definition of the waterway to include the UAE's Gulf of Oman coastline. The U.S. has imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports and attempted an aborted operation to reopen the chokepoint.

A car caught fire and exploded near New York's Charging Bull statue on May 19. Flames engulfed the vehicle, sending smoke across the Financial District. Pedestrians fled the scene before the blast. Emergency responders arrived quickly and secured the area. Firefighters worked to put out the fire. The cause of the incident is under investigation.

Ma Huateng, also known as Pony Ma, is the influential co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Tencent, a global tech conglomerate. Despite a low public profile, his leadership has built Tencent into a powerhouse in gaming, social media, and financial services, with WeChat boasting over 1 billion users. Forbes estimates his net worth at $63 billion as of November 2025.

Jammu and Kashmir Police have seized approximately 3 kilograms of heroin. The drugs were suspected to have been dropped by a drone near the international border. This significant recovery occurred in the Bishnah sector. Police acted on specific intelligence regarding cross-border narcotics smuggling. A local farmer discovered the suspicious packet while working in his field.

Japanese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Womens quarrels cause the mens wars. The saying reflects how small personal conflicts or emotional disagreements can sometimes grow into much larger disputes when other people become involved. It suggests that misunderstandings, pride, loyalty, and social pressure can escalate tensions far beyond the original issue, turning minor arguments into broader conflicts that affect many others.

India and South Korea are set to collaborate on advanced defence technologies. Plans include joint development and production of next-generation weapon systems. This partnership aims to leverage Korea's technological prowess and India's manufacturing capabilities. Discussions focused on areas like maritime security and emerging technologies. Agreements were signed for directed energy weapons and self-propelled air defence systems.

The three companies wanted a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi to stop the hearing in the case till the mediation is over as they wanted attempt mediation for deciding the case.

Rahul Gandhi labelled Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah as raitors for allegedly attacking the Constitution and handing over national assets to industrialists. Addressing a party meeting in Amethi, he refused to apologize for his remarks, which the BJP condemned as an insult to the nation and reflective of his frustration over electoral losses.

Projects worth 15,000 crore across six states are being awarded to kick-start the Centre's 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund. These initiatives include water supply for villages, lake cleaning, and traffic congestion solutions. The funding model involves a 25% contribution from the Centre and states, with the remaining 50% sourced from municipal bonds, bank loans, and PPPs.

The psychology behind women wanting things done a certain way often points to a deeper link between stress, mental load, anxiety and social expectations. While true Obsessive-compulsive disorder requires professional diagnosis, many everyday control behaviors are more closely connected to emotional overwhelm than to personality flaws.

India and Italy have elevated their relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced this major step. The two nations will hold annual meetings and boost defense and maritime security cooperation. Trade targets are set to increase significantly. Both countries are committed to combating terrorism and resolving global issues through dialogue.

The Assam cabinet has approved the Assam State Data Policy 2026. This new policy replaces the 2022 version. A Centre for Data Management will be established. This agency will create a unified data repository for analytics and AI. Departments will systematically share data. This aims to drive innovation for departments and citizens.

OpenAI IPO: Wall Street is entering its biggest IPO wave since 2022. OpenAI, SpaceX, Anthropic, Shein, and Kunlunxin could together raise nearly $200 billion. OpenAI may file for its IPO before SpaceX goes public. That changes the entire AI market race. Investors are now watching Sam Altman, Elon Musk, and Anthropic more closely than ever. These mega IPOs could reshape Nvidia, Microsoft, Nasdaq, AI stocks, tech valuations, and global markets. The battle is no longer only about innovation. It is

Former Cuban President Raul Castro faces murder charges in the United States. This indictment stems from a 1996 incident where Cuban jets shot down exile planes. The US is increasing pressure on Cuba's government. A ceremony in Miami honors victims of the 1996 event. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio offers aid to Cuba.

Quote of the day by Martin Luther King Jr.: He emphasized that true education cultivates both intensive and critical thinking, alongside strong character. This dual focus is crucial in today's information-saturated world, where intelligence must be paired with honesty and empathy to foster a just society and prevent social harm.

The CBI has filed an FIR against a former Indian Navy captain for allegedly amassing disproportionate assets exceeding Rs 3 crore. During his service, including sensitive postings, the officer and his family's assets reportedly grew significantly between 2010 and 2020. The agency alleges a substantial portion of these assets cannot be explained by known income sources.

Defence PSU GRSE launched Sanghamitra, the first of four next-generation offshore patrol vessels for the Indian Navy. The vessel is larger and more capable than conventional patrol vessels. It features enhanced endurance and firepower. The ship can operate in coastal waters for asset protection and interdiction operations. It will also undertake surveillance and mine warfare missions.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has threatened to impose permits on submarine fiber-optic cables passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This move could disrupt global data flow, impacting financial transactions and government communications. While some countries have alternative routes, Qatar, hosting a key cable terminal, faces significant impact. Repairing damaged cables could become challenging due to potential Iranian interference.

Tripura convened a stakeholder consultation for its draft AVGC-XR Policy, aiming to foster creativity, innovation, and digital employment. Senior officials and industry experts discussed talent development, entrepreneurship, and content creation. The policy seeks to position Tripura as an AVGC-XR hub, synergizing with existing state initiatives for economic growth.

SpaceX is getting ready to launch Starship Version 3, the next-generation spacecraft designed for Moon and Mars missions under NASAs Artemis program. The test flight marks the first significant launch of 2026 and introduces a redesigned rocket with increased size, thrust, and upgraded Raptor engines. The mission will analyze booster recovery systems, heat shield performance, and satellite deployment capabilities. It comes amid delays in development and growing expectations for future crewed luna

Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in China, projecting unity against US dominance. They signed agreements and criticized US defense policies. However, Russia's economic dependence on China is evident, while China carefully manages its global interests. This summit highlights China's strategic balancing act between the US and Russia.

High Treasury yields' impact on consumer finances: Treasury yields are reaching multiyear highs, impacting borrowing costs, investments, and consumer confidence. This rise, driven by inflation fears and geopolitical concerns, means higher mortgage rates and increased government debt expenses.

Quote of the day: Great quotes endure because they express complex human experiences in just a few memorable words. Hans Hofmanns statement continues to resonate online because it speaks to something timeless: the search for clarity in an increasingly chaotic world.

African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of A womans strength is a multitude of words. The saying reflects how communication, expression, and spoken wisdom are often seen as powerful tools through which a woman influences her family and community. It suggests that words carry emotional strength, guidance, and authority, shaping relationships, resolving conflicts, and passing on knowledge.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the deepening India-Italy relationship during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. The two nations have elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership. Discussions focused on boosting bilateral trade to 20 billion euros by 2029 and expanding cooperation in technology and defense. The visit marks a significant milestone in bilateral engagement.

A demolition drive in Mumbai's Bandra slum turned violent. Authorities razed an illegal religious structure. Local residents protested, leading to clashes with police. Stone-pelting occurred, injuring a police constable. Several people were detained. The operation aims to clear encroached railway land near Bandra railway station.

African proverb of the day: Many chase success, but this can lead to losing peace. Modern life pressures people to achieve more, often at the cost of well-being. Traditional wisdom reminds us that inner peace and contentment are vital. This proverb highlights the importance of balance and appreciating the present moment. True fulfillment comes from within, not just material gains.