The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by actor Vijay is set to win its first Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. This mirrors the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) debut victory in Delhi. Both parties emerged from public discontent with established political forces. Vijay's TVK and Kejriwal's AAP utilized similar strategies, including freebies and grassroots mobilization.
Quote of the day by Clint Eastwood: He believes consistent effort, not just intention, builds success. His early struggles and breakthrough in television and film paved the way for international fame. Eastwood's directorial career earned him Academy Awards. He is known for his calm, quiet filmmaking approach, a style developed from his early experiences on set.
Many people think Social Security Administration income is always tax-free, but that is not true. Taxes depend on your total income and rules set by the IRS. There are simple and legal ways to reduce tax, like using tax-free savings, planning withdrawals, and managing income smartly. Knowing these tips can help retirees save money and avoid paying extra taxes.
Reassuring news from the high seas: the five Indian crew members of the MV Barakah are safe following a confrontation with the Iranian Navy in the busy Strait of Hormuz.
Why are US stock market futures down today, and will Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq stay in red or turn green again? Futures slipped after reports linked to US-Iran tensions, rising oil prices, earnings updates, and corporate deals. Investors track geopolitical risk, logistics competition, and analyst outlook while deciding what to do next.
Assam Election Results: The BJP is poised to win the Assam Assembly elections, bucking anti-incumbency trends seen elsewhere. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's campaign, focused on infrastructure, welfare, and protecting indigenous identity, appears to have resonated strongly with voters. Strategic delimitation and a focus on the infiltrator narrative also played key roles in the anticipated victory.
At the Paryavaran Niti Manthan organised by the Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI) in association with the Niti Aayog on Monday, MRAI has called for called for a central nodal ministry to ensure continuity in leadership, faster decision-making, better inter-ministerial coordination and streamlined compliance processes.
Why are oil and gas prices up today, and will Brent, US WTI crude futures and Dutch natural gas rates continue to rise or fall again? Oil and gas markets moved higher after reports about a US warship incident near the Strait of Hormuz. Brent and WTI crude futures rose about 5%. Dutch gas prices also moved up as LNG supply remained trapped. Analysts say the market now watches supply disruption risks, OPEC+ output plans, storage levels, and geopolitical developments.
India on Sunday firmly rejected Nepal's objection to the upcoming Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the long-established Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, dismissing Kathmandu's territorial claims over the region as an unilateral artificial enlargement that New Delhi finds untenable.
BJP workers celebrated across West Bengal as early election trends indicated a significant shift. Celebrations erupted in Kolkata and across the state, with supporters raising slogans. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee released a video message urging party workers not to leave counting centers. Early leads showed the BJP ahead in many constituencies, prompting celebrations and some confrontations.
The Congress-led UDF secured a sweeping victory in Kerala, which AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal described as a verdict against the CPI(M)-led LDF's arrogance, corruption, and nepotism. He attributed the win to public anger over 10 years of misrule and claimed the LDF engaged in communal and opportunistic politics with a secret understanding with the BJP.
As the glow of Mays full moon fades, darker skies take over, creating ideal conditions to watch one of the seasons most anticipated celestial events: the Eta Aquariid meteor shower.
Security has been significantly increased around West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees Kalighat residence and the state secretariat Nabanna following a directive from the Election Commission. The move comes after a group raised Jai Sree Ram slogans near her home amid early trends showing BJP leading in a majority of seats.
Voters again showed little interest in the 'None of the Above' or NOTA option during recent assembly elections. Data reveals NOTA usage remained below one percent in most states. This trend continues a decline seen in Lok Sabha polls since 2014. The Election Commission introduced NOTA following a Supreme Court order in 2013 to protect voter secrecy.
The Asian Development Bank urges greater regional cooperation and faster reforms in Asia Pacific. The bank warns of overlapping crises including conflict, trade fragmentation, and climate risks. ADB is increasing financing and launching initiatives like a Pan-Asia Power Grid and a Digital Highway. Uzbekistan's president proposed a Digital Customs Alliance and AI scaling in developing nations.
Union Minister George Kurian secured third place in the Kanjirappally constituency during the recent Kerala Assembly elections. He received 26,984 votes. The Congress candidate Rony K Baby led the count. Despite Kurian's defeat, the BJP celebrated victories in Nemom and Chathannoor constituencies. The results were announced after 15 counting rounds.
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has followed in the footsteps of parties such as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and the Telegu Desum Party (TDP) in moving to form the government after its very first electoral outing.
A new chapter in Indian politics is unfolding. The BJP's return in Haryana signifies a strategic revival, and the once-unbreakable grip of Naveen Patnaik in Odisha has finally loosened. Meanwhile, Maharashtra's political alliances have set the stage for critical outcomes, and the BJP's comeback in Delhi after 27 years reflects a dramatic voter shift.
BJP Kerala president Rajeev Chandrasekhar announced the NDA has secured two MLA seats in Nemom and Chathannoor. This outcome directly challenges the Congress and CPI(M)'s earlier assertions that the BJP would not win any seats. Chandrasekhar stated the people's mandate reflects dissatisfaction with CPI(M)'s alleged corruption.
West Bengal Results 2026: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) appears poised to form the government in West Bengal for the first time, potentially ending the Trinamool Congresss 15-year dominance. Trends from the Election Commission of India indicate a strong lead for the BJP, driven by a welfare-focused campaign and robust ground-level organisation. If these trends hold, the outcome would signal a significant political shift in the state.
Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship: An outbreak of Hantavirus on a cruise ship sailing from Ushuaia in Argentina to Cape Verde has tragically claimed three lives. The World Health Organization is investigating this rare disease, transmitted from rodents. Hantavirus causes severe respiratory illness. Prevention involves avoiding rodent exposure and maintaining cleanliness.
InGovern Research Services urged directors of seven listed Tata Group firms to advocate for Tata Sons' public listing. Citing RBI's 2026 regulatory shifts, the firm stressed the fiduciary duty to protect public shareholders by demanding a listing roadmap, market-linked valuation, and governance reforms.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has requested a meeting with Governor R.N. Ravi. This comes as vote counting shows the Bharatiya Janata Party leading significantly. The BJP appears set for a historic victory in the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected at the BJP headquarters. Elections were held recently, with a record voter turnout.
Actor Thalapathy Vijay is a global star with a devoted fan base. His career spans three decades, marked by successful films and memorable dialogues. Vijay is now entering politics with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, which is showing strong leads. His net worth is estimated at Rs 600 crore, earned through films, endorsements, and investments.
West Bengals 2026 election is beginning to look like a political map being redrawn, with old equations giving way to new alignments. The BJPs current edge hints at a shift, but Bengal rarely moves in straight lines. Mamata Banerjees career reflects that pattern from student politics to forming the TMC in 1998 and ending Left rule in 2011, repeatedly turning setbacks into comebacks. In Bengal, even political tides rarely settle.
Early vote counting in West Bengal assembly elections shows a significant lead for the BJP. Many Trinamool Congress ministers are trailing in their constituencies. This trend indicates a strong challenge for the ruling party. Key leaders are facing tough contests. The Election Commission notes that final trends will emerge after more counting rounds are completed.
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi lost the Jorhat Assembly constituency to BJPs Hitendra Nath Goswami by a margin of 23,182 votes, with Goswami securing 69,439 votes against Gogois 46,257 as counting concluded.
Step inside Thalapathy Vijays Rs 80-crore Neelankarai mansion, a coastal fortress where luxury meets privacy. As his party TVK makes waves in the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, we explore his minimalist sea-facing sanctuary, complete with a private gym, a swimming pool, and a high-security design tailored for a leader.
Puducherry election winners list 2026: Chief Minister N Rangasamy secured an early victory. Key constituencies like Mangalam, Yanam and Mannadipet are being closely watched. Several of these seats saw narrow margins in the previous elections, indicating likely close contests ahead.
TVK Manifesto: Tamil actor Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is making a strong debut in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Election Results 2026, with early trends showing a significant impact. The partys manifesto, focused on welfare measures, job guarantees and farmer relief, appears to be resonating with voters, challenging the established DMKAIADMK dominance.
Tamil Nadu Results: Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has achieved a stunning victory in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, crossing the majority mark. This historic win, attributed to a decade-long transformation of fan clubs into a disciplined political force, signals a new era in Tamil Nadu politics, challenging the established order.
How can TVK form government in Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu appears headed for a hung Assembly as TVK is leading in a large number of seats but is likely short of the 118-seat majority mark. With counting still underway, Vijays party has three possible paths to form the government alliances with smaller parties, support from AIADMK, or issue-based backing.
BJP West Bengal results 2026: Industrialist Harsh Goenka has reacted positively to the Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in West Bengal. He believes the business community is delighted and sees this as a turning point for economic revival. Goenka anticipates development returning to the forefront, a boost in jobs and investments, and a stronger social climate.
Actor Vijay's political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, is making a significant impact in Tamil Nadu elections. Vijay is currently leading in key constituencies. Celebrations have erupted among his supporters. Security measures are in place around his home. The election results are being closely watched across India.
The Bhagyathara BT-52 lottery results have now been released, offering participants a chance to win prizes ranging from a 1 crore jackpot to smaller amounts. Ticket holders can check their numbers for the draw, which features multiple prize tiers. The Kerala State Lotteries Department ensures transparency in the announcement and claiming process.
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear Christian Michel James' plea for release from jail in the AgustaWestland scam case. James challenges the India-UAE extradition treaty, arguing he has served the maximum sentence for extradited offenses. The court issued notices to the Centre, CBI, and ED, seeking their responses within four weeks.
BJP Winners Assembly Elections 2026: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has shown improved performance in the 2026 Assembly elections across multiple states. While making its presence felt in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the party has recorded strong leads in West Bengal and Assam. Here is the state-wise performance and leading candidates.
BJP candidate Ratna Debnath, mother of the RG Kar rape victim, is leading in the Panihati assembly constituency. Her campaign focused on women's safety, aiming to continue her daughter's mission. This closely watched contest highlights issues of governance and accountability in West Bengal's ongoing election counting.
India's palm oil imports plummeted 27% in April to a one-year low, driven by sluggish institutional demand and a reduced price advantage over rival oils. This decline could impact global palm oil futures, while imports of soyoil and sunflower oil saw significant increases, pushing overall edible oil imports to a 2026 high.
Vijay Thalapathy TVK: Actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is poised to make history in Tamil Nadu, potentially becoming the state's first actor-turned Chief Minister in 49 years. Despite facing setbacks, including a stampede controversy, a film leak impacting his movie 'Jana Nayagan', and a personal divorce case, Vijay's political journey is gaining significant momentum.
The Congress-led UDF has secured a significant victory in Kerala. This marks the end of ten years of Left rule in the state. The list of winners from various parties including Congress, CPI(M), IUML, CPI, Kerala Congress, RSP, BJP, RJD, and RMPOI has been released. Voters have made their choice.
Who Won West Bengal Election:The Bharatiya Janata Party is leading significantly over the All India Trinamool Congress in the West Bengal Assembly elections, according to the latest Election Commission of India trends. BJP's Suvendu Adhikary holds a lead in Nandigram, while Mamata Banerjee is ahead in Bhabanipur. The state recorded exceptionally high voter turnout across its phases.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered district officials to be on high alert. Heavy rains and thunderstorms are affecting several districts, including Lucknow. The Chief Minister stressed immediate relief for citizens and prompt compensation for losses. Officials are instructed to stay on the ground and ensure public safety.
India Assembly Election Trends 2026: Indian Assembly election trends reveal a dynamic political landscape. In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee faces challenges while Suvendu Adhikari rises. Tamil Nadu sees M.K. Stalin confronting anti-incumbency and actor Vijay making a significant debut. Kerala experiences fatigue with the Left, and Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma consolidates power. Personality still matters, but only when aligned with public mood.
India's central bank is actively seeking methods to attract dollar inflows. This move aims to bolster foreign exchange reserves and stabilize the rupee. Measures under consideration include reviving a deposit scheme for non-resident Indians and removing withholding tax on overseas government bond investors. These steps are being explored amid rising oil prices and capital outflows.
West Bengal Assembly elections: Vote counting for the polls is underway. Trinamool Congress leaders are expressing concern as some party candidates are trailing. They allege delays and confusion at counting centers. TMC candidates claim the Election Commission is not cooperating. The results will decide if the TMC returns to power or the BJP forms its first government in the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the BJP headquarters today. Trends show the BJP leading in West Bengal and Assam. The party is also expected to retain power in Puducherry. Vote counting is underway for assembly elections in five states. The BJP appears set for a strong performance in the eastern regions.
Ratna Debnath, mother of the RG Kar rape-murder victim, is leading in the Panihati assembly constituency. She has secured a significant lead over her Trinamool Congress opponent. The tragic incident involving her daughter, a doctor, occurred in August 2024 at RG Medical College and Hospital. Election Commission data confirms her current advantage in the vote count.
Quote of the day by Queen Elizabeth II: Queen Elizabeth II served as a symbol of stability for over 70 years. She witnessed immense global transformations and adapted to a changing world. Her dedication to duty and service earned her worldwide respect. Her legacy highlights resilience and humility in leadership. She understood that change is a constant.

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