The Economic Times

An early-season heatwave is affecting millions across the eastern United States, with cities like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. experiencing temperatures far above normal. Driven by a strong high-pressure system, the heat has pushed readings into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, breaking long-standing records.

AT&T has launched a new Elite 2.0 unlimited plan with higher price and better features. It gives fast 5G data, more hotspot, and travel benefits in many countries. The plan is good for heavy users who need strong speed and global use. It costs more than other plans but offers extra performance and connectivity options.

Unlike other lunar cycles, this New Moon marks the beginning of a broader astrological cycle. It is not just about setting goals but redefining identity and direction. The emphasis is on authenticity, moving away from performance-driven behaviour and towards genuine self-expression.

Jobless claims in the U.S. have decreased, staying within recent years' levels. This comes as the Iran conflict creates global economic worries. Despite this, U.S. markets have recovered and oil prices have stabilized. Consumer prices, however, have seen a significant monthly jump, impacting businesses and individuals. The Federal Reserve's stance on interest rates remains unchanged due to inflation concerns.

Cognizant has launched its Technoverse Hackathon 2026, a national platform for over 20,000 engineering students to showcase AI-powered problem-solving skills across various industries. The initiative aims to bridge academic learning with real-world applications, fostering innovation and preparing students for future technology leadership roles.

TVK chief Vijay unveiled his party's manifesto for the upcoming Assembly polls, pledging Rs 2,500 monthly aid for women and 8 grams of gold for marriage assistance. The manifesto also includes a full cooperative crop loan waiver for small farmers and a minimum support price of Rs 3,500 per quintal for paddy.

Four collision avoidance manoeuvres (CAM) were performed for Geo-synchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, while 14 CAMs, including one for the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR), were performed for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.

West Asia War: India's sovereign rating remains stable despite rising energy costs. However, supply disruptions for food and fuel could impact company credit quality. Top companies may see earnings drop, increasing debt ratios. Sectors like refining and airlines are most vulnerable. Banks might see slower credit growth. Government revenue could be affected by fuel price support measures.

India is set to manufacture GE F-414-INS6 turbofan engines domestically. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and GE Aerospace have signed a key technical agreement. This pact will power three major indigenous fighter jets. Around 80% of the engine will be produced in India. GE will transfer intellectual property rights for local components. This marks a significant step towards defence self-reliance.

Nancy Guthrie's disappearance continues to draw attention. Police have increased patrols near her daughter Annie's home following resident complaints about a YouTuber. A reward exceeding one million dollars is offered for information. Former FBI agent Jason Pack believes continued media visibility, especially from Savannah Guthrie, builds pressure.

The UPSC has released the CDS 1 2026 answer keys on upsc.gov.in for English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Candidates can download PDFs for all paper sets (A, B, C, D) to estimate their scores. The exam, held on April 12, 2026, aimed to fill 451 vacancies.

Disable YouTube Shorts: YouTube has introduced a new option to disable Shorts entirely in the app. Users can now limit Shorts feed to 0 minutes through the Time Management settings, effectively removing short videos from their experience. Many users are hoping Instagram will soon add a similar feature for Reels.

West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee released a peoples chargesheet accusing both the Trinamool Congress government and the BJP-led Centre of failing Bengal on governance, jobs, corruption and cultural issues. The party alleged misgovernance by the state, citing scams, recruitment irregularities, rising debt and law-and-order concerns, while also blaming the Centre for fund delays and promoting anti-Bengal sentiment. Congress said both parties have let the state down, accusing them of blame-sh

Pakistan Navy has successfully test-fired a new ship-launched anti-ship missile. This indigenously developed weapon can hit targets at long distances. The missile features advanced guidance and maneuverability. It can engage targets at sea and on land with high precision. The Chief of the Naval Staff witnessed the successful launch. This marks a significant advancement in Pakistan's naval technology.

Vaishakha Amavasya in April 2026 is a significant day for honoring ancestors through prayers and rituals. Devotees are advised to avoid auspicious ceremonies and new purchases, focusing instead on charitable acts like feeding animals and offering to Brahmins. Performing specific rituals is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth warned Iran that the United States is strengthening its military power and will maintain a maritime blockade for as long as it takes. He stated that U.S. forces are prepared to resume combat operations if Iran does not agree to a peace deal, emphasizing that the U.S.

A Pentagon sermon by Pete Hegseth has sparked controversy after he recited a prayer resembling a fictional Bible passage from Pulp Fiction. The lines, written by Quentin Tarantino and Roger Avary and performed by Samuel L. Jackson, were adapted into a military context. The incident has triggered political criticism, public debate, and discussions about the role of religion, accuracy, and symbolism within official government institutions and military spaces.

Byreddy Shabari of the Telugu Desam Party backed the womens quota bills in the Lok Sabha, saying they mark a shift from womens development to women-led development and will enable greater leadership roles. Other NDA allies, including Janata Dal (United), also supported the legislation, emphasising womens role in achieving Viksit Bharat, even as opposition parties protested and termed the bills anti-constitutional.

The class action lawsuit, filed in 2019 by plaintiff Brian Keim, alleged that Trader Joes violated the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA), which is an amendment to the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Trying to lose weight but still craving sandwiches? You dont have to give them up. With a few smart swaps and simple ingredients, you can turn your everyday sandwich into a healthy, filling meal that actually supports your weight loss goals.

The US has broadened its maritime blockade in response to escalating Iran war tensions, enabling forces to globally intercept, search, and seize ships carrying weapons, munitions, oil, metals, and refined products. This expanded scope allows for the targeting of vessels transporting a wide array of contraband goods.

Building strong legs doesn't require intense pain or heavy gym equipment. This story outlines five simple, low-impact exercisesfrom Wall Sits to Glute Bridgesthat strengthen your lower body while protecting your joints. Perfect for beginners or those with sensitive knees, these moves ensure a stable, pain-free foundation for 2026.

Comfort in knowledge can hinder progress. True growth occurs when challenged and learning from others. Seeking environments where you are not the expert fosters humility and development. This involves embracing situations that push you to learn and listen. It means prioritizing learning over seeking admiration. Real confidence lies in being comfortable not always being the smartest.

Boost your iron levels naturally with these seven simple drumstick and moringa recipes. From traditional sambar and stir-fries to modern smoothies and parathas, learn how this local superfood can fight fatigue and improve your energy. Simple, tasty, and perfect for every Indian kitchen in 2026.

Leonardo da Vinci, also known as the Renaissance man, gives us a meaningful life lesson about life, fulfillment and death in one of his quotes. Vinci, known for his brilliant and imaginative mind, said if you spent a day with a purpose, keeping yourself busy, then you will go to bed at night peacefully. Similarly, if you spent your life well, you won't fear death.

Optimism is rising that the Iran war could be nearing a resolution after mediation effortsled in part by Asim Munirmade progress on key issues, with both sides open to resuming talks and extending a ceasefire. However, major differences remain over Irans nuclear programme, with disagreements on the duration of limits and handling of enriched uranium, even as global markets rally on hopes of a deal. The conflict, which has disrupted the Strait of Hormuz and rattled the global economy, may also hi

Spiritual leader Sadhguru and actor Alia Bhatt discussed failure at an event in Chennai. Sadhguru reframed failure as an opportunity for bliss, sharing his own life's mission and encouraging a focus on inner ecstasy over external achievements. He urged aiming for goals beyond a single lifetime, emphasizing that true success lies in being a 'blissful failure'.

Krishnavataram Part 1: The Heart is emerging as one of the most anticipated mythological films, generating strong buzz ahead of its worldwide release on May 7, 2026. The film marks the debut of Sanskruti Jayana in the role of Satyabhama, adding both fresh talent and a notable legacy connection as the granddaughter of Anandiben Patel. Produced on a grand scale in Gujarat near Visnagar and backed by Athashrikatha Motion Pictures LLP and Creativeland Studios Entertainment, the project stands out fo

The European Union is set to broaden its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which could lead to a spike in carbon tax expenses for Indian goods shipped to Europe. Exporters in India must quickly adapt by enhancing their emissions tracking and implementing decarbonisation strategies.

The Supreme Court declined to hear a plea from ex-servicemen challenging pay-fixation rules that penalize veterans joining civil services. The court permitted a representation to authorities, stating dissatisfied petitioners can approach the Central Administrative Tribunal. The plea argued current rules ignore military service, leading to financial disadvantage and unequal treatment.

The monsoon outlook for India in 2026 paints a worrying picture, with an anticipated El Nio likely to disrupt normal rainfall patterns. This scenario threatens to diminish crop production and necessitate greater imports of essential commodities, such as edible oils. Moreover, diminished rainfall could strain the power sector, necessitating governmental response.

Why are US stock market futures up today, and will Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq stay in green or turn red again? Futures rise as investors track Middle East diplomacy and earnings season. Analysts say sentiment improved after strong bank results and ceasefire talks. Markets remain sensitive to geopolitical news and company earnings. Traders now watch key results and global developments.

Kolkatas Tollygunjlong a stronghold of Aroop Biswasis witnessing rare political churn ahead of the 2026 polls, with voter anger building over job losses, deletion of over 43,000 names from electoral rolls, and allegations of entrenched local and industry-level control by the Biswas brothers. A triangular contest involving the TMC, BJP and CPI(M) has turned the seat into a high-stakes battle, testing whether one of the Trinamool Congresss last urban bastions can hold amid rising discontent and sh

India Post GDS 3rd Merit List: The third merit list of India Post GDS is expected to be released in the last week of April or in May. Following the past trends, the third merit list should be released in May. Students can check their names in the merit list by visiting the official website indiapostgdsonline.gov.in

The IMF is urging governments to let fuel prices rise, warning that broad subsidies and price caps worsen global energy shocks. Allowing price signals to function encourages demand reduction, which is crucial for market stabilization. Targeted cash transfers are recommended to cushion consumers without distorting global markets.

The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached assets worth 159.51 crore in a West Bengal illegal coal mining and pilferage racket, bringing the total to 482.22 crore. The syndicate, allegedly led by Anup Majee, operated with fake transport documents, a WhatsApp clearance system, and a hawala network to move illicit funds and conceal proceeds from cash purchases by select companies.

A 24-year-old IIT Delhi graduate resigned from a high-paying banking job, citing a toxic work culture that eroded his health and peace of mind. He felt pressured to sell financial products he didn't trust and faced relentless sales targets, leading him to prioritize well-being over a substantial salary.

The outage appeared to be partial rather than a full shutdown, mainly affecting the platforms Home timeline and Explore feed, leaving users unable to view real-time posts despite being able to log in successfully.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of violating the Model Code of Conduct by distributing cards to women before elections. Banerjee alleged that the BJP is misusing power and agencies to threaten voters and collect data, warning that women will be robbed of their bank account information and money.

The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea challenging the Election Commission's transfer of administrative and police officers in West Bengal. The court stated that the legal question raised remains open. This decision comes as West Bengal prepares for assembly elections. Voting is scheduled for April 23 and April 29, with vote counting on May 4.

CBSE Class 10 2026 results: The CBSE Class 10 results for 2026 saw a slight increase in the overall pass percentage to 93.7%, with girls continuing to outperform boys. The results have reflected a strong performance as more than 2 lakh students have scored more than 90 percent and 55,368 students secured over 95%.

Central government employees are demanding a significant overhaul of their pay structure. They want the government to consider a family of five for pay calculations, moving away from the current three-member system. This includes support for dependent parents, aligning with legal mandates.