The Economic Times

Israel maintains a layered air-defense posture with Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 for long-range threats, David's Sling for mid-range missiles and aircraft, and Iron Dome for short-range rockets. The Iron Beam laser system is nearing operational status. The US has deployed THAAD and assisted in intercepting missiles, underscoring strong defense coordination.

Former Tunisian Prime Minister Ali Larayedh received a 24-year prison sentence. He was convicted of helping Tunisian jihadists travel to Syria. His party claims the case is politically motivated. This follows President Kais Saied's consolidation of power. Larayedh served as prime minister between 2013 and 2014. He denies the charges and plans to appeal.

The United States has authorised the departure of some embassy personnel and their families from Israel due to safety risks, the U.S. embassy said in a post on X on Friday.

SBI Clerk Mains Result 2025 pdf download: The State Bank of India has announced the SBI Clerk Mains Result 2025-26. Candidates who took the exam on November 21, 2025, can now check the PDF for their roll numbers. Successful candidates will proceed to the Local Language Proficiency Test. This test is mandatory for final selection. There is no interview.

Jammu and Kashmir speedster Auqib Nabi delivered a stellar five-wicket performance in the Ranji Trophy final. This achievement has put his team in a strong position for their first-ever title. Nabi has also become the leading wicket-taker this season. Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has lauded Nabi's potential for the national team, suggesting an England tour as a fitting debut.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav voiced strong support for former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after the Rouse Avenue Court discharged Kejriwal and others in the Delhi Excise Policy case, ruling there was no criminal intent and failing to substantiate conspiracy claims. Yadav also criticized the BJP and religious figures for alleged involvement.

The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk has urged Iran to halt all executions. This call comes after a death sentence was issued for a protestor. Reports indicate at least eight people, including two children, have received death sentences. Another thirty individuals are also at risk of execution. The UN official expressed deep concern over these developments.

A Delhi court discharged Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia in the excise policy case. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera criticized the BJP, calling them a 'shape-shifter'. He alleged the BJP uses agencies as campaign tools and governance through vendetta. Manish Sisodia called it a victory against a conspiracy. The CBI plans to challenge the discharge in the Delhi High Court.

Global K-pop superstars BTS are set to release their new album, Arirang, on March 20, followed by the Arirang World Tour commencing April 9. Fans can also experience the tour live in cinemas across over 75 countries starting in April. The comeback is further amplified by Netflix specials, including a live-streamed event and a documentary detailing the album's creation.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde affirmed the government's dedication to elevating Marathi. The language will be promoted for culture, economy, and employment. Policy steps include creating encyclopedias and increasing Marathi usage in government. Efforts aim to make Marathi a business language and generate income. The government seeks global recognition for Marathi through conferences and translations.

Tata Sons has deferred a decision on Natarajan Chandrasekarans third term as chairman, despite a prior unanimous Tata Trusts resolution backing his extension. Chairman Noel Tata reportedly raised concerns over losses, capital expenditure and a potential listing. The move highlights internal differences within the Tata Groups holding structure.

Kolkata earthquake today: Massive tremors were felt in West Bengal's capital Kolkata today and residents were seen rushing out of their offices and buildings. However, amid this, netizens were debating whether Bangladesh is secretly testing nuclear power with another one asking what is wrong with our neighbouring country. As the news of the Kolkata earthquake continues to circulate on social media, the internet remains flooded with reactions, memes, and on-ground visuals.

Thought of the day by James T. Kirk highlights the quote, A meeting is an event where minutes are taken and hours are wasted. This article explains Thought of the day today, Thought of the day today meaning, and Thought of the day by James T. Kirk relevance in modern work life and leadership.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has approved the internal reservation bill for Scheduled Castes, a move that will enable the state to fill over 56,000 vacant government posts. The bill's assent follows its passage by both houses of the Karnataka Legislature, clearing the path for much-needed recruitment.

Rashid Naseem, a fugitive wanted in an investment fraud case, has been arrested in the UAE. He is the promoter of Shine City Group. Naseem was declared an outlaw under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act. The Enforcement Directorate had initiated a money laundering case against him. Funds worth Rs 800-1,000 crore were allegedly collected through fraudulent schemes.

A Danish intern's six-month transformation into a dosa enthusiast in Bengaluru has gone viral. Initially hesitant about spice, he ended his stay confidently ordering a ghee pudi masala dosa, spicy, showcasing a delightful cultural adaptation. The video highlights how shared culinary experiences can foster quick connections.

Quote of the day by Richard Branson highlights the message Work until your bank account looks like a phone number. This quote of the day today meaning focuses on effort, income growth, and persistence. The quote of the day by Richard Branson relevance connects to his journey in business, risk, and success.

More than six lakh farmers in Maharashtra await benefits from the 2017 farm loan waiver scheme. The state government is working to provide this relief. Under other schemes, millions of farmers have already received loan waivers and incentive subsidies. A committee is studying farm loan liabilities and will submit recommendations.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 journey faces a critical juncture. Their semi-final hopes now depend on the England versus New Zealand match. Pakistan needs a specific result to stay in contention. A win for New Zealand will eliminate Pakistan. The team awaits the outcome to determine their path forward.

Artificial intelligence poses headwinds for India's software sector, but former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan says AI will drive an adjustment rather than spell disaster. He calls for rapid reskilling and agile adaptation. While routine, low-value tasks are vulnerable, AI also opens new opportunities and business models. India's cost advantage and skilled workforce remain core strengths.

Karnataka is championing the AVGC-XR sector, focusing on AI as a creative enhancer, not a replacement. The state is committed to protecting artists' rights and ensuring fair pay. Initiatives are underway to expand digital creative hubs beyond Bengaluru, fostering talent across Karnataka.

The Assam government will ask the Gauhati High Court for a fast-track court to speed up the Zubeen Garg death case. Garg's wife welcomed the move, seeking strict punishment for those accused. The singer died last year in Singapore. A Special Investigation Team filed a charge-sheet naming seven accused. The family wants the case expedited to ensure justice.

Apple growers from Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand will protest in Delhi next month to oppose a proposed duty concession on US apples under a trade pact that would allow duty-free imports from the United States. They warn the move could flood Indian markets and harm domestic farmers. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha has pledged support for the protest.

Ticket bookings for 'The Kerala Story 2-Goes Beyond' continue despite a 15-day stay ordered by the Kerala High Court. Petitioners informed the court that sales are ongoing as the matter is reviewed. The court had paused the release earlier over concerns of potential communal disharmony. The producer has appealed, keeping screenings in play.

Kolkata experienced significant tremors on Friday following a magnitude 5.4 earthquake originating in Bangladesh. The seismic event occurred at a depth of 35 kilometers. While official magnitude readings for Kolkata are unconfirmed, residents reported feeling strong shaking, prompting concern and immediate attention.

Virosh wedding: Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda tied the knot in Udaipur on February 26. Vijay Deverakonda's jewellery included Oddiyanam, Kasu mala, Kadukkan, Kolusu, long haram. The different and stunning jewellery opted by the Liger actor has sparked a buzz online with many users praising him for his royal look.

India and Maldives are deepening their strategic partnership. Discussions focused on enhancing defense and diplomatic cooperation. Both nations reviewed regional security dynamics. Maldives highlighted strong bilateral ties and collaboration on sustainable development. India remains a reliable partner for technology and knowledge transfer. Maritime security cooperation was also reinforced.

Rob Rausch girlfriend: Love Island alum Rob Rausch confirmed he is off the market, revealing he's been dating someone new for two months. While Rausch has kept his girlfriend's identity private, speculation online suggests she may be an esthetician from Kansas City. He recently denied any romantic connection with Maura Higgins.

India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated the proposed India-US trade deal will be rebalanced if circumstances change. New Delhi will protect its economic interests as US tariff signals evolve. Discussions are ongoing. India remains confident in its export growth despite global trade headwinds. Sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy are protected in the deal.

The Election Commission is preparing for Tamil Nadu's assembly polls. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced measures for fair elections. Voter rolls are being revised to include all eligible voters. VVPAT counting will be mandatory. Postal ballots will be counted before EVMs. All polling stations will have basic amenities. The law and order situation is satisfactory.

Salman Khan's co-actor Daisy Shah has come out in support of Palaash Muchhal after his wedding with Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana was called off. Daisy, who made her debut with Salman Khan in Jai Ho, called Palaash a very good person and also revealed how she developed a strong bond with Palak Muchhal and her family. Palash Muchhal and Smriti Mandhana were scheduled to get married last year, but the wedding was called off.

Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal has announced jobs for 12 roles in his new startup, Temple. But along with the tech skills he has announced very important fitness requirements for all the roles. This unusual hiring reflects the company's focus on building high-performance tech for elite athletes, demanding physical discipline from its team.

Rolling Loud Australia has been cancelled for March 2026, with organizers blaming local promoters Primuse Entertainment for failing to meet payment obligations. They have also confirmed that ticket holders are entitled to a full refund. This marks the second cancellation for the festival's return to Australia after a previous indefinite postponement.

Veteran politician O Panneerselvam's (OPS) political journey has had a bold turn with him formally joining the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. He stood beside Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at the party headquarters in Chennai. This move marks a significant political realignment in Tamil Nadu. Panneerselvam cited AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami's leadership as dictatorial. He stated the DMK is working to save the Dravidian Movement.

The Gujarat High Court censured a GST officer for depending on unverified AI-produced court citations, which proved fictitious. The errors impacted a matter involving Marhabba Overseas Private Limited. The court called for thorough verification and prudent use of AI in legal processes, granting interim relief to the petitioner and signaling a cautious stance on AI-assisted quasi-judicial decisions.

Central bankers face political pressure worldwide. They are fighting to keep their independence. This effort risks making them seem political. Populist rivals want to influence central bank decisions and leadership. This situation highlights a delicate balance between independence and public accountability. Markets may ultimately have the final say.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described public capital expenditure as the cornerstone of India's economic strategy, noting a marked rise in government infrastructure spending to secure long-term productivity gains. This investment drive forms part of a sustained nation-building effort aimed at transforming India into a developed economy by 2047.

Claude maker and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei advised students and young professionals to focus on human-centered skills, as software engineering and math are rapidly being taken over by AI. His remarks came after he warned that white-collar jobs could disappear in the coming five years. Anthropic is the artificial intelligence company that created Claude.

Space practices offer lessons for Meghalaya's renewable energy push. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla highlighted International Space Station's reliance on solar power. Meghalaya's Chief Minister's Solar Mission is bringing solar power to remote schools and homes. This initiative improves last-mile connectivity and reduces reliance on traditional electricity grids.

Actress Diane Keaton rejects the idea of slowing down as one ages. She believes in staying present and engaged through all of life's experiences, both good and bad. Keaton's perspective reframes aging as persistence, not decline. Her career demonstrates a commitment to participation and purpose at every stage of life. She passed away in 2025 at age 79.

The Kerala State Lottery Department will announce the Suvarna Keralam SK-42 lottery results on February 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM. The top prize is Rs 1 crore, with other attractive prizes also available. Winners can claim their prizes by submitting the original ticket, identification, and a filled claim form at the Kerala Lottery Office.

The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Anjadip, a new warship. This vessel will boost anti-submarine warfare and coastal surveillance. INS Anjadip is designed to detect and track enemy submarines in shallow waters. It also supports coastal defence and search-and-rescue missions. This addition strengthens India's naval capacity to protect its coastline and maritime interests.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is visiting India to improve relations. He aims to sign a trade agreement and strengthen economic ties. This visit is part of a broader strategy to diversify Canada's global partnerships. Carney's foreign policy focuses on reducing reliance on the United States. He is also scheduled to visit Australia and Japan.