The Economic Times

China's ambitious tree-planting program has transformed the Taklamakan Desert, once known as The Place of No Return, into a functioning carbon sink. Satellite data reveals measurable photosynthesis and carbon absorption, demonstrating a remarkable environmental shift. While water availability and heat absorption pose challenges, the project offers hope for desertification reversal.

Shrinking Season 3 Episode 4 release time, what to expect and how to watch worldwide is now confirmed. The episode streams February 18, 2026, on Apple TV Plus. Jimmy speaks at Gaby class, Paul faces Parkinson changes, and Gerry returns. Viewers worldwide can stream the episode using an Apple TV Plus subscription.

The U.S. government is backing prediction market platforms in a major legal fight with several states. The dispute is about who should control these online betting-style markets federal regulators or state gambling authorities. The outcome could change how sports betting, online prediction trading, and digital event contracts are regulated across the country in the future.

Five people were injured in a New York church explosion Tuesday morning in Boonville, Oneida County. One firefighter remains in critical condition. The blast happened around 10:30 a.m. at Abundant Life Fellowship Church. Thick black smoke filled the sky. Police say no sign of criminal activity. Investigators are probing a possible propane or gas leak. The church suffered severe structural damage. The cause remains under active investigation.

The Supreme Court is noticing a worrying trend of lawyers using artificial intelligence to draft court petitions. Judges have encountered cases where AI tools have cited judgments and quotations that are either incorrect or do not exist. This raises serious questions about the accuracy and reliability of AI-assisted legal drafting.

US stock market crashes today as the Dow Jones falls 114 points to 49,386. The S&P 500 drops 0.25%. The Nasdaq slips 0.35%. Bitcoin tumbles 2.19% to $67,326. Gold plunges 3.21% to $4,884. Oil prices weaken. Tech stocks trade mixed. Investors react to inflation data, AI concerns, and Federal Reserve rate cut uncertainty. Market volatility spikes across stocks, commodities, and crypto.

The Supreme Court will hear appeals in April regarding the fodder scam convictions. This includes appeals against the Jharkhand High Court's decision to suspend the sentence of former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad and other convicts. The court noted the advanced age of the accused. Cases where respondents have died will be closed.

Ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes of Sinope taught that insults reflect the speaker's flaws. He believed true dignity comes from within. His philosophy remains relevant today, especially in online interactions. Diogenes lived a simple life, rejecting material possessions. He emphasized self-sufficiency and independence from external validation. His teachings highlight that one's honor is not diminished by others' words unless accepted.

Indian courts are pushing business families towards mediation for dispute resolution. This approach aims to protect family ties and business value. Recent court directives highlight the benefits of negotiated settlements over lengthy legal battles. Experts advocate for formal family agreements to prevent future conflicts. Mediation offers a private avenue to address complex issues involving legacy and control.

The federal government will deposit $1,000 per child into new Trump Accounts starting in 2026. This is a one-time government payment. It is not automatic. Parents must open the account and claim it through their tax filing. Eligible children must be U.S. citizens with Social Security numbers and born between 2025 and 2028. The money will be invested for long-term growth. Annual contributions up to $5,000 will be allowed.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is seeking expert help to recover data from the crashed Learjet 45's cockpit voice recorder. Both recorders were severely damaged by intense heat and fire. The CVR, made by Honeywell, is undergoing examination. This investigation aims to understand the cause of the accident that claimed five lives, including Maharashtra's deputy chief minister.

NCP leaders met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. They demanded a CBI probe into the aircraft crash that killed Ajit Pawar and four others. The Chief Minister assured the state government will write to the Union Home Ministry. This request seeks a CBI investigation into all angles of the crash. The move follows allegations of conspiracy behind Ajit Pawar's death.

Tarique Rahman has taken oath as Bangladesh's new Prime Minister. This marks a significant political shift after two decades. Rahman's government faces the challenge of governance experience. India's Lok Sabha Speaker attended the ceremony, signaling hopes for stronger bilateral ties. The new government is expected to foster inclusive politics. Several international dignitaries were also present.

Heartreachment is a modern expressive word that states a deep emotional influence that reaches directly into the heart. It refers to moments, actions, or words that create lasting emotional resonance rather than brief reactions. The term blends familiarity and intuition, making its meaning easy to grasp even on first encounter. Heartreachment applies to daily life experiences, from personal conversations to powerful art and storytelling.

Bumfuzzle is a rare English word that means to confuse or puzzle someone. It is mostly used in casual talking, not formal writing. The word comes from old dialect words and has been used for more than 100 years. People often use it when something is very hard to understand or makes their mind feel mixed up.

The Supreme Court has expressed its reservations about the feasibility of tracking every violent event unfolding in West Bengal, suggesting that a petitioner should turn to the Calcutta High Court for possible recourse. The case highlights allegations surrounding the killings of BJP workers post the 2018 local body elections.

A recent online discussion reveals young professionals are struggling with the 9-to-5 office grind. An economics graduate shared his dissatisfaction with his filing clerk role, sparking a flood of advice. Many resonated with the feeling of burnout and disillusionment. Suggestions ranged from remote work to pursuing trades. The conversation highlights the search for fulfillment beyond traditional office structures.

India has emerged as a strong voice for the Global South. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated India is shaping global discussions and contributing to a more balanced world. The nation offers practical solutions to global challenges. India's progress is rapid and sustainable. Its digital infrastructure ensures welfare benefits reach citizens efficiently.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with France's Catherine Vautrin. Discussions focused on increasing local manufacturing for Rafale fighter jets. India also wants French support for setting up engine maintenance facilities. A renewed 10-year defense pact will boost training and technology cooperation between the nations.

The Karnataka High Court has dismissed a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi. The case was filed by the BJP over a Congress campaign. The court stated continuing the proceedings would be an abuse of law. Rahul Gandhi had reposted campaign material on social media. This campaign targeted the then BJP government with allegations of corruption.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. He conveyed a special invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The invitation is for Rahman, his wife, and daughter to visit India. This visit can be scheduled at a mutually convenient time. Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence in Rahman's leadership.

A 2004 study published in Sleep and Hypnosis found that sleeping on the left side is connected to more nightmares, affecting around 41 percent of participants compared to 14.6 percent of right-side sleepers. The study analyzed 63 people, asking them to sleep on either side and then report dream experiences. Interestingly, left-side sleepers reported generally better sleep overall despite more bad dreams. Right-side sleepers experienced fewer nightmares but lower-quality rest.

Veteran actor Pravina Deshpande has passed away at the age of 60. She was undergoing treatment for multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer. Deshpande had a notable career in Hindi and Marathi entertainment, appearing in films like Ready and Ek Villain. She also featured in popular television shows. Her contributions spanned films, television, theatre, and web series.

Midterm elections 2026: Political forecasts indicate a shifting landscape for the 2026 midterms, with Republican Senate win probabilities dropping to 60% while Democrats are favored to win the House at 83%. Democrats are expanding their strategy into competitive districts, and key Senate races in Texas and Michigan are intensifying, focusing on economic issues and candidate endorsements.

Many office employees feel tired and sleepy after lunch, which affects their focus and meeting participation. People shared easy tips like eating lighter food, walking outside, drinking water, standing while working, and taking short rest breaks. These simple daily habits can boost energy levels, reduce afternoon tiredness, and help workers stay active, productive, and more focused throughout the day.

Happy Lunar New Year-Year of the Fire Horse 2026: China celebrated the Lunar New Year with a TV show and once again the humanoid robots were a central part of the performance.

A Delhi court has denied bail to Manoj Gaur, former MD of Jaypee Infratech, in a money-laundering case. The court highlighted allegations of cheating and criminal breach of trust involving thousands of homebuyers. Gaur allegedly diverted funds collected for housing projects, leaving them incomplete.

Social media platforms X and Meta Platforms told the Delhi High Court that satire and public speech should be protected from takedown orders in personality right cases. Baba Ramdev is suing for alleged misuse of his image and identity online. Platforms argue against indiscriminate blocking, citing freedom of speech. They state some content has been removed.

India's global capability centres are now deploying artificial intelligence at scale. This shift is creating new, specialized roles that blend technology, product, and strategy. Demand for these AI-focused positions is surging, with significant salary premiums. Companies are actively hiring for these emerging roles to integrate AI into core business operations.

India's net session ahead of their T20 World Cup game against the Netherlands focused on spin. Abhishek Sharma displayed powerful hitting for over an hour. Rinku Singh also bowled off-spin with a round arm action. Other players like Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan also practiced. The team prepared for their upcoming match.

Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar has formally complained about large-scale voter deletions in Greater Bangalore Area. He has urged the state election commission to conduct a comprehensive audit of these deletions. Shivakumar seeks the restoration of all eligible voters who were wrongly removed. He also wants to ensure families are not split across different polling booths.

Iran and the United States have agreed on guiding principles for nuclear talks. This understanding was reached during indirect discussions in Geneva. While progress has been made, a final deal is not expected soon. Both sides will now move forward based on these principles.

A South Goa consumer court has issued a bailable warrant for Ola Electric CEO Bhavish Aggarwal. He failed to appear for a hearing regarding a customer's faulty scooter. The court ordered Bengaluru police to arrest him and produce him on February 23. The case involves a customer seeking a refund and compensation for a scooter with motor and touchscreen issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited newly appointed Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, along with his wife and daughter, to visit India. Modi congratulated Rahman on his party's election victory, emphasizing the deep-rooted friendship and shared aspirations between the two nations. He expressed eagerness to strengthen bilateral ties and regional cooperation.

Tamil Nadu's Agriculture Department receives Rs 47,248 crore in the Interim Budget for 2026-27. Farmer welfare schemes will continue. The government aims to modernize agriculture, boost farmer income, and ensure food security. A new Agroforestry Policy will be introduced to encourage cultivation of high-value trees. This policy will ease rules for felling and transporting trees.

Ramadan 2026: During the holy month, Muslims will observe a daily fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink and other physical needs from the time of the Fajr prayer until Maghrib.

Twenty-two Naxalites surrendered in Sukma, Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. They joined the government's 'Poona Margem' rehabilitation scheme. Police and CRPF officials facilitated the surrenders. The Maoist influence is declining due to ongoing operations and development projects. Surrendered cadres received financial assistance and will be rehabilitated. Over 1,500 Naxalites surrendered in the state in 2025.

Ancient humans did not sleep continuously. They commonly slept in two shifts each night, separated by a period of wakefulness. This practice changed over the last two centuries. Artificial lighting and industrial schedules led to the modern habit of sleeping for eight uninterrupted hours.

Iran conducted live fire military drills in the Strait of Hormuz, temporarily closing the vital waterway. This show of force coincided with indirect talks in Geneva between Iran and the United States concerning Iran's nuclear program. The drills involved missile firings, with Iran citing safety concerns. The U.S. has increased its military presence in the region.

Businessman Madhav Gopal Agrawal has shared his account of a financial dispute with actor Rajpal Yadav. Agrawal lent Rs 5 crore in 2012 for Yadav's film Ata Pata Laapata. The loan was reportedly given with a personal guarantee. Repayment deadlines were missed, leading to multiple agreements and dishonoured cheques. A settlement of Rs 10.40 crore was later agreed upon.

IRS tax return mailing deadline: Taxpayers filing by April 15 face new risks with United States Postal Service postmark changes. Effective December 24, 2025, postmarks may not reflect the actual drop-off date. This impacts the IRS mailbox rule, which uses the postmark for timely filing. Mailing on April 15 could result in a later postmark date. Early mailing or manual postmarks are recommended.

A veteran employee, Jennifer Schroeder, went viral after revealing she was passed over for a promotion in favor of a 25-year-old colleague and then asked to train her. In a TikTok video, Schroeder cited, I watched a 25-year-old get my promotion, and then they asked me to train her. Heres what I said No.

Worm Moon 2026: This years Full Moon carries added significance as it aligns with a total lunar eclipse, commonly known as a Blood Moon. Astronomically, the March 2026 Full Moon will shine in the constellation Leo, close to the brilliant star Regulus, often dubbed the Little King.