The Economic Times

Dowager meaning: Dowager signifies a widow with inherited status or wealth. This term, rooted in history, describes women in royal and noble families. Its relevance continues today in discussions of inheritance and property rights. The popular character of the Dowager Countess from Downton Abbey brought the word to a new audience. The concept ensures financial protection for widows.

As the Olympic flame is set to dim in Verona, the closing ceremony promises to celebrate not only athletic excellence but also the resilience and unity that define the Winter Games.

India has updated its merchandise trade indices. The new base year is FY 2022-23, replacing the old FY 2012-13. This change better reflects current trade realities and global commerce patterns. The Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics announced the revision. It follows expert committee recommendations for international statistical alignment. This will aid policymakers and businesses.

Thought of the day: For many admirers, Norriss journey, from a reserved young boy in Oklahoma to a martial arts champion, Hollywood star and cultural icon, embodies this principle. The message is neither abstract nor theoretical; it is rooted in lived experience.

A new study from the University at Buffalo shows that cannabis-infused beverages may help people lower alcohol consumption. Surveying 438 adults, researchers found that users of cannabis drinks reduced weekly alcohol intake from seven to almost 3.35 drinks. Binge drinking episodes also dropped significantly. Cannabis beverages, often packaged like beer or hard seltzers, enable users to maintain social rituals while consuming fewer alcohol calories.

The Department of Technical Education, Karnataka has announced the DTE Karnataka C25 Diploma Result 2025 for supplementary exams. Students who took the June/July 2025 examinations can now check their scores online on btelinx.in and dtek.karnataka.gov.in by entering their registration number and date of birth.

Many people are waiting for their tax refund after filing returns in 2026. The Internal Revenue Service allows taxpayers to track refund status online using a simple tool. Refunds usually come in a few weeks, but delays can happen due to mistakes or extra checks. There is no official news yet about any new stimulus payment this year.

US-Iran conflict oil and gas price impact: Global oil prices are climbing amid fears of a US strike on Iran. This could mean higher fuel costs for Americans. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route, faces potential disruption. Analysts predict significant price hikes if conflict escalates, impacting household budgets.

Central Railway is deploying 186 special trains to manage the Holi travel rush, connecting Mumbai and Pune with key destinations like Nagpur, Banaras, and Gorakhpur. Advance bookings are open, offering passengers more options for their festive journeys. These services aim to ensure smoother travel during the peak period.

The average price of a dozen eggs has reduced to $2.58, roughly half of what consumers paid at peak levels last year. The drop follows recovery from avian flu outbreaks that killed millions of egg-laying hens and pushed prices over $6 per dozen. As flocks rebound and supply increases, wholesale prices have fallen below production costs, leaving several farmers selling at a loss.

Many Americans may get their tax refund late this year. The delay mostly affects people who claimed two popular tax credits for workers and families. A law requires the IRS to hold these refunds for extra checks to stop fraud. Even though refunds may be bigger this year because of new tax cuts, some taxpayers will need to wait longer.

Did You Know: Honey, prized for centuries as both a natural sweetener and a healing remedy, is also one of the rare foods that can last indefinitely without spoiling but there's a catch.

Despite not securing a deal on Shark Tank India, Mumbai-based 3Sistersdrinks successfully raised 2.5 crore from independent investors. The beverage brand, known for its unique auto-rickshaw entry, impressed investors with its dual business model of in-house brands and contract manufacturing, enabling profitable growth.

A CNN royal commentator warns that Prince Andrew's recent arrest in the UK could cast a significant shadow over King Charles III's reign. The arrest, stemming from an investigation into alleged misconduct in public office related to Jeffrey Epstein, might force Charles to consider a regency, potentially leading to Prince William assuming a more authoritative role.

The Calcutta High Court has decided that an eight-year-old boy will continue to live with his father, with whom he has been staying for the past five years. The court referred the couple to mediation under the supervision of the Calcutta High Courts mediation committee and asked that a psychologist be involved in the process.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrigs disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that damages motor neurons controlling voluntary muscles. It often starts with muscle weakness, twitching, slurred speech or difficulty swallowing, and eventually progresses to widespread paralysis. Most cases have no known cause, though a small percentage are inherited. Average survival is three to five years after symptoms begin, though some live longer. Eric Danes death has renewed awar

India's merchandise trade deficit widened in January 2026 as imports outpaced exports, driven by a surge in gold and silver shipments. Despite external pressures, the domestic economy showed resilience with sustained momentum in industrial and services sectors, supported by strong domestic demand and improved investor sentiment.

Why are gold and silver prices fluctuating so often, and is it complete manipulation? Gold prices increased due to US-Iran tensions, falling European bond yields, and inflation outlook. Federal Reserve policy expectations, investor demand, and central bank buying influence gold, silver, platinum, and palladium prices and cause frequent fluctuations in global bullion markets.

India is fortunate with a young population embracing AI. Policymakers are investing in digital infrastructure and removing entrepreneurship barriers. This positions India well for AI adoption. The IMF sees AI lifting global growth and helping India achieve its developed nation goal by 2047. While optimistic, risks of unfairness exist.

Many of us rely on a morning ritual to kickstart our day, but consuming certain foods too quickly after waking can sabotage your energy and digestion. During the first hour, your cortisol levels are peaking and your stomach is highly sensitive after a long fast. Choosing the wrong fuel can lead to a blood sugar roller coaster or painful acidity that lingers until lunch.

Supreme Court tariff ruling impact on consumers Americans may see relief as the Supreme Court considers President Trump's tariffs. A ruling against these tariffs could lower household costs by up to $800 in 2026. However, other existing tariffs will remain, meaning not all extra expenses will disappear. The impact on refunds for consumers and businesses is still uncertain.

The IRS has warned taxpayers about a strict 60-day rule for filing taxes. People who file very late may face a minimum $525 penalty plus interest that keeps growing. The agency says filing and paying on time is the best way to avoid fines. Some penalties can be reduced only if taxpayers show a valid and genuine reason.

Bomb hoaxes continue to target Delhi schools. Police face challenges tracing threats due to VPNs and encrypted emails. Perpetrators use international servers and privacy-focused services. Tracing these digital phantoms is a complex and often frustrating task for investigators. Many attacks remain unsolved, leaving authorities in a reactive cycle.

Discover seven nutritious, low-oil Indian dinner options designed for health-conscious living in 2026. From steamed vegetable idlis to smoky baingan bharta, these recipes prioritize fiber and protein while utilizing techniques like steaming and roasting to deliver authentic traditional flavors without the excess grease or heavy calories.

Book of the Day: Readers often call Anything You Want liberating, especially those who feel disconnected from corporate jargon and inflexible management philosophies.

The national capital is gearing up for a major cultural transformation with the launch of the first-ever Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF), scheduled to begin on March 25, 2026. Designed to position Delhi as a premier global film destination, this week-long extravaganza will feature over 125 films from five countries, ranging from international premieres to regional Indian cinema.

Raj Kundra received bail in a Bitcoin money laundering case. Kerala increased Dearness Allowance for employees. PM Modi discussed AI's potential in agriculture and education. India and the US are set to finalize an interim trade pact. Brazil and India plan a critical minerals and AI alliance. A new US initiative aims to counter China's AI push.

The internationally acclaimed Malayalam film Theatre: The Myth of Reality is finally set for its digital debut after a successful theatrical and festival run. Starring Rima Kallingal in a powerhouse performance that earned her the Best Actress award at the 48th Kerala Film Critics Awards, the film is directed by Sajin Baabu, known for the award-winning movie Biriyani.

Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora warned that AI tools are rapidly gaining deep personal insights, potentially knowing users better than their spouses. He highlighted that AI's speed of advancement outpaces governance, creating significant risks as people share sensitive data with increasingly autonomous systems.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited Zubeen Garg's cremation ground. She described the singer as the 'voice of Assam's soul' and stated he was above politics. Vadra emphasized Garg's message of love and unity, which upheld Assamese culture. She noted the deep emotional attachment people had with Garg. Her visit was unscheduled and intended to pay respects without political motives.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel is strengthening alliances, highlighting the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a gigantic power. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's proactive approach to security and its designation as a model ally by the US, underscoring the significant alliance between Israel and India.

Quote of the day: In a culture that often prizes certainty, control and relentless striving, Zhuangzis insight is profoundly countercultural, a reminder that liberation often comes not from mastery over circumstances.

Gujarat, Lakshadweep and Puducherry recently published their respective final electoral rolls as part of the poll roll cleanup exercise. Before SIR was announced on October 27 last year, the combined electorate of Gujarat and the two Union territories stood at 5.19 crore. After publication of final rolls, their total voter base came down to 4.50 crore -- a net change of 68.9 lakh.

The 82 km DelhiGhaziabadMeerut RRTS corridor is set to fully open to the public this Sunday, February 22, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the inauguration at Shatabdi Nagar, flagging off a Namo Bharat train toward Sarai Kale Khan and launching the Meerut Metro service. This milestone marks the completion of a project that began with its first phase in October 2023.

An intriguing study unveils the depth of generosity in India, where a large chunk of individual donations is directed toward religious institutions and aiding the homeless. Surprisingly, only a fraction is funneled into secular social initiatives. Meanwhile, non-cash contributions slightly edge out financial ones, indicating a culture of resource sharing.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has called out Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his lack of action on job creation and future development strategies. During her statement, she questioned why the Chief Minister continues to focus on political disputes from years gone by.

America faces a crisis as its workforce shrinks and education falters. While AI promises productivity, it may not offset declining human capital. Fewer workers mean higher costs for retirees and government debt. The nation needs better education and skilled immigration to boost its economic future. This strategy is crucial for prosperity.

Delhi circle rate news: Delhi's property circle rates are poised for a significant overhaul, with proposed hikes up to 30% to align with soaring market prices. This move aims to boost stamp duty collections and transparency, impacting various property segments. The revision, the first since 2014, will be finalized after public feedback and cabinet approval.

The Pokemon Company has revealed that Pokemon FireRed and Pokmon LeafGreen Version will arrive on the Nintendo Switch later this month, bringing fans back to the Kanto region as the franchise marks its 30th anniversary.

French President Emmanuel Macron lauded India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI), recognising its profound impact on digital transactions. Meanwhile, the Congress party weighed in, asserting that the UPI's foundational ideas were laid down while the UPA was in power.

The Supreme Court of India has taken decisive action in the clash between the West Bengal government and the Election Commission. By appointing judicial officers to oversee the handling of claims and objections for voter list revisions, the court aims to streamline the Special Intensive Revision process. District collectors and police superintendents are on board to facilitate this transition.

Delhi Police have arrested Khusnuma Ansari, also known as 'Madam Zeher'. She is accused of running a drug syndicate for the Lawrence BishnoiHashim Baba gang. Her beauty parlour served as a front for these illegal activities. This arrest follows a pattern of women playing key roles in gang operations in the Delhi-NCR region.

The Bombay High Court has strongly criticized the Navy for a significant intelligence lapse. The court questioned how a tall building was constructed near INS Shikra without the Navy's notice. This lapse occurred despite the building receiving its commencement certificate before a mandatory No Objection Certificate rule was implemented.

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) is poised for Navratna status, a move that will grant it enhanced financial and operational autonomy. This elevation recognizes the shipyard's significant evolution from a 19th-century workshop to a strategic defence asset, mirroring India's growing maritime ambitions and self-reliance.