The Economic Times

RBI MPC Meet Feb 2026 Date & time: The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee is meeting to decide on interest rates. Markets, borrowers, and investors are watching closely. The decision on the repo rate is expected on February 6, 2026. Analysts anticipate the repo rate will remain unchanged at 5.25%.

Why is gold price down again and will it go below $4,917 or make a comeback? Gold prices fell with silver as the dollar strengthened. Market selling followed easing global tensions, tech stock pressure, and lower demand for precious metals.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unveiled a pro-people interim budget. She stated the budget prioritizes citizens' welfare and demonstrates fiscal discipline. Banerjee contrasted it with the Union Budget, calling it directionless. The state government allocated funds focusing on women, youth, workers, and vulnerable sections. This budget aims to balance welfare spending with financial prudence.

Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD has vocally contested the methods employed by the ruling NDA, claiming they funneled a staggering Rs 40,000 crore to sabotage the Mahagathbandhan in the latest Bihar assembly elections. He raised alarms over a democracy compromised by threats and coercion.

Word of the Day: In journalistic reporting, where clarity and neutrality are paramount, desuetude helps distinguish between repeal, reform, and neglect, three outcomes often conflated in public discourse.

Delhi is bringing back double-decker buses this month for a special tourism service. These electric buses will connect major attractions like Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya and the National War Memorial. The service aims to offer visitors a smoother sightseeing experience. Evening tours are also planned. This initiative marks a return of the iconic buses to the city's roads.

Paulo Coelho's timeless quote, 'Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience,' remains vital in today's world. It encourages embracing action over overthinking and highlights that true growth and confidence stem from real-world experiences, learning from both successes and failures.

The Supreme Court has ordered the West Bengal government to pay dearness allowance to its employees. This payment covers the period from 2008 to 2019. The court has directed the state to pay 25 percent of the outstanding DA by March 6. A committee will determine the total amount and payment schedule.

800 people go missing in Delhi: The data released by the Delhi Police shows that nearly 2,000 people go missing every month in the national capital. Since 2016, the figure has hovered around 23,000 to 24,000 a year, showing no significant surge. The data comes at a time when concerns have been raised amid reports of 800 people missing in Delhi in just fifteen days of 2026.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla revealed he advised Prime Minister Narendra Modi to stay out of the House. This decision followed unexpected and unprecedented conduct by Congress members during Wednesday's proceedings. Birla stated he had information about Congress MPs planning to approach the Prime Minister in an unexpected manner. He personally witnessed the developments.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has announced a one-man committee to address alleged ghee adulteration in Tirupati laddus. A Special Investigation Team report confirmed the use of palmolein oil and chemicals. Naidu described the adulteration as a grave offense. He stated that a previous report in 2022 also indicated adulteration.

Today's thought of the day reflects on Elon Musks recent tweet about how money cant buy happiness. The piece explores the meaning behind his words, the global reaction they sparked, and what the idea teaches us about purpose, fulfilment and real-world happiness.

Lunar New Year 2026: Those born under the Ox are among the zodiac signs facing a Tai Sui clash in the Year of the Horse 2026, prompting increased attention to traditional remedies and more cautious planning.

Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi met with West Bengal Congress leaders. This comes as the state prepares for assembly elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party also held a meeting with its West Bengal MPs. BJP National President Nitin Nabin offered guidance. The Trinamool Congress has not initiated alliance talks. Political parties are strategizing for the upcoming high-voltage contest.

Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in rare, back-to-back calls with Russia's Putin and US President Trump, signaling Beijing's global positioning. Discussions covered trade, Ukraine, and Iran, with China committing to increased US soybean purchases. Xi also cautioned the US on arms sales to Taiwan, while strengthening ties with Russia against the West.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated her government will provide land for border fencing. However, she insisted the central government must first withdraw its decision to expand the Border Security Force's jurisdiction.

India is open to sourcing crude oil from Venezuela and other nations. This decision hinges on commercial viability. Venezuela has been a long-term energy partner for India. Imports were halted in 2019-20 but resumed in 2023-24. Sanctions led to a subsequent halt. Indian public sector undertakings maintain partnerships in Venezuela. India assesses all crude availability on commercial grounds.

Tirupati has launched India's first AI-powered temple governance model. The Integrated Command Control Center enhances pilgrim comfort and safety. Real-time analytics and operational intelligence streamline darshan, queue, and accommodation management. This initiative reduces waiting times and improves security.

Marie Curie, a pioneering physicist and two-time Nobel laureate, believed that building a better world starts with individual self-improvement. She emphasized that personal growth, coupled with a shared responsibility to humanity, is crucial. Individuals should focus their efforts where they can be most useful, balancing personal development with practical contributions to society.

DSSSB is set to release admit cards for the Primary Assistant Teacher (PRT) exam, a computer-based test scheduled for February and March 2026. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the official website by entering their application number and date of birth. The exam will feature 200 objective questions across various subjects.

Bihar Police has launched a statewide crackdown on vulgar and double-meaning songs, deeming them a significant social problem impacting women's safety and children's development. Ahead of Holi, district police units are instructed to conduct a special campaign, booking individuals playing such songs in public spaces and on transport.

Quote of the day by Anne Frank: Anne Frank's profound quote, What is done cannot be undone, but one can prevent it happening again, emphasizes the power of reflection and personal responsibility. This timeless wisdom encourages learning from mistakes to foster growth and avoid repeating errors, offering guidance for a more mindful and intentional life.

The University of Calicut has announced new undergraduate and postgraduate results. Students can now check their scorecards online. Recent declarations include Third Semester BCom Professional and BCom, BBA, and BCom Honours supplementary and improvement results. Earlier, fifth semester results for various UG and PG programs were also published. Access is available via the official university results portal using registration numbers.

New Zealand's T20 World Cup preparations have been hit by illness, with Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway ruled out of a warmup match due to a viral infection. Finn Allen will also rest as he recovers from a shoulder injury. Despite these setbacks, coach Rob Walter is optimistic that all players will be fit for their opening match against Afghanistan.

Vivek Oberoi, the renowned actor and entrepreneur, has taken his fight to the Delhi High Court, seeking legal protection against the misuse of his likeness and personal branding. Reports indicate that various individuals and groups have been capitalizing on his fame, from counterfeit social media profiles to AI-generated imitations.

Anand Mahindra is trending for his tribute to pickup trucks as the workhorses of the world. Highlighting their role in rural logistics and global commerce, he shared a vision for Mahindra to dominate this space, backed by a record-breaking 35,000-unit export deal to support cooperatives in Indonesia.

China has stated it will not participate in nuclear disarmament talks currently. This comes as the US-Russian New START treaty has expired. The treaty had limited the number of warheads deployed by both nations. Beijing maintains its nuclear capabilities are on a different scale. International efforts to include China in new talks have so far failed.

India's sunflower oil imports are set to fall next year. Higher prices are pushing buyers towards cheaper alternatives like palm oil. This shift could help reduce global palm oil stockpiles. Importers anticipate bringing in only enough sunflower oil for essential needs. Palm oil imports saw a substantial rise in January, while sunflower oil imports decreased.

Australian shares experienced a downturn on Thursday, February 5, 2026. The S&P/ASX 200 index saw a decline, primarily driven by losses in base and precious metal miners. This was due to falling commodity prices and a stronger US dollar. Despite some sectors showing gains, the overall market sentiment was impacted by these factors.

A Kollam court granted statutory bail to Unnikrishnan Potty in a Sabarimala gold loss case. This comes as the investigation team failed to file a charge sheet within the stipulated time. Potty will now be released from jail. He is the first accused in both cases. Other accused are also seeking bail.

A woman's unconventional use of a Rapido porter to dispose of a box of garbage has gone viral, sparking debate. The porter, expecting a delivery, was instructed to simply leave the package amidst refuse. While some laud the 'Indian jugaad,' others express concern over the lack of courtesy towards gig workers, highlighting a clash between convenience and respect.

Google Pixel 10a set to launch in India on February 18, 2026, Google announced. The upcoming mid-ranger is expected to feature a Tensor G4 chip, a 6.3-inch 120Hz display, and a flush camera design. Pricing is rumored to start around 49,999, with exclusive pre-order offers available for early subscribers.

Global K-pop sensation BTS is set to make a monumental return with their fifth studio album, ARIRANG, releasing on March 20, 2026. This comeback includes a highly anticipated live performance at Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square on March 21, 2026, which will be live-streamed globally on Netflix.

Ghaziabad sisters' suicide: The three sisters who died by suicide were obsessed with Korean dramas and the K-pop culture. They were reportedly upset after their parents introduced Bollywood to their younger sibling, Devu, the diary they left revealed. The girls wrote in their diary that Korean is their life and they loved Korean actors more than their family members.

Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party has approached the Supreme Court. They are challenging the Bihar Assembly Elections of 2025. The party seeks fresh polls in the state. The plea alleges the Bihar government violated the Model Code. This was done by transferring money to women voters. The court will hear the matter soon.

Sons of Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan allege the government is deliberately blocking their visas. They claim their father is held in solitary confinement and denied proper medical treatment for a serious eye condition. The family states democracy is hollow and human rights are being crushed in Pakistan. They urge international bodies to intervene before irreversible harm occurs.

Parliamentary proceedings were marred by sharp exchanges as BJP chief J.P. Nadda labelled Rahul Gandhi an innocent child, accusing the Congress of being led by him. Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge objected, calling it an insult. The government asserted the Prime Minister was ready to address the Lok Sabha but was prevented by disruptions.

Parliamentary proceedings were marred by sharp exchanges as BJP chief J.P. Nadda labelled Rahul Gandhi an innocent child, accusing the Congress of being led by him. Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge objected, calling it an insult. The government asserted the Prime Minister was ready to address the Lok Sabha but was prevented by disruptions.

Quote of the day by Hellen Keller: Hellen Keller's profound quote encourages finding wonder and contentment in all circumstances, even darkness and silence. Despite becoming deaf and blind, she learned to communicate and inspired millions with her resilience. Her message teaches us to embrace life's challenges, find gratitude, and appreciate hidden wonders for inner peace.

Kerala Assembly has passed a resolution. It demands the central government withdraw the new VB-G RAM G Act. The state wants the MGNREGA scheme restored. This follows similar moves by Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. The new act places a significant financial burden on states. It also removes rights-based provisions crucial for poverty alleviation.

Hack of the day: Learn how to claim a refund and possible compensation for failed UPI payments in India. If a UPI transaction fails but money is debited, banks must reverse it within one business day (T+1). If delayed, you can dispute through your app and escalate to RBI CMS or Banking Ombudsman for relief.

The Lok Sabha approved the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address. This happened through a voice vote. Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not speak in the Lok Sabha during the debate. The government decided the Prime Minister would respond in the Rajya Sabha later. This occurred amidst ongoing disruptions and Opposition protests.

At 38, television actress Rubina Dilaik showcases extraordinary strength through aerial yoga, proving that motherhood and peak fitness can coexist beautifully together.

The Supreme Court will hear a Public Interest Litigation in March. The petition seeks action against political parties that promise freebies before elections. It asks for seizure of symbols or deregistration of such parties. The court previously sought responses from the Centre and Election Commission. This issue is considered serious and impacts fair elections.

A Reddit user shared a frustrating job search experience. After four interview rounds and positive feedback, including from the CEO, the candidate was ultimately rejected. The company cited another applicant with slightly more experience. This story highlights the uncertainty in recruitment processes, with other users sharing similar tales of unexpected outcomes.

800 people missing in Delhi: Concerns have been raised after reports emerged that more than 800 people, mostly women and children, have disappeared in the national capital in just the first two weeks of 2026. Children and women remain the worst-affected. You can track the status of missing people in Delhi on the official website: zipnet.delhipolice.gov.in

Valentines week 2026 colours: Valentine's Week offers a vibrant spectrum of emotions, with each day's color choice amplifying your message. From red's passion on Rose Day to blue's trust on Promise Day, and pink's romance on Propose Day, these hues express feelings beyond words. Embrace this colorful guide to articulate your love story throughout the week.