The Economic Times

India and the European Union have reached a historic milestone by concluding their free trade agreement negotiations. This significant pact is expected to catalyze a rise in Indian exports and attract international investment. Thanks to the agreement, more than 99 percent of Indian goods will enjoy preferential access to the EU market.

India's trade deal with the EU is a credit positive, according to Moody's, boosting manufacturing, foreign investment, and exports of labor-intensive goods. While lower EU import tariffs could ease costs, European carmakers will see enhanced market access, intensifying competition for domestic players. Overall gains depend on improved business friendliness and streamlined regulations.

India is expanding its social security agreements with European Union nations. Pacts are already in place with 14 EU countries. India hopes to finalize agreements with the remaining 13 within the next five years. These agreements prevent double contributions for Indian professionals working in the EU. This is a significant development for Indian businesses and skilled workers operating abroad.

Kim Kardashians quote, At the end of the day, life is about being happy being who you are, and I feel like we are so blessed to have the support system and the best family to really just support each other no matter what we're going through. states about happiness and family emphasizes values that resonate far beyond celebrity culture. It reminds us that success and visibility mean little without emotional support.

Word of the Day: Quintessence signifies the purest essence of something. This word describes the most perfect example of an idea or quality. It reminds us that meaning lies in what remains after removing the unnecessary. Understanding quintessence helps us recognize authenticity and value quality over quantity. It is used to describe characters, works, or people who perfectly embody a theme or quality.

Millions of US parents may get up to $1,000 for their children under a new Trump Accounts program. The money is not automatic and requires opening a government-backed account during tax filing. Extra funds are possible for some families due to a major private donation. Parents must act early to qualify.

Gulf coast of the United States: The extreme temperatures and prolonged cold will bring risks of hypothermia and frostbite, forecasters warned. Some modest warming is expected later in the week, they said, though hazardous wind chills are likely to persist through Friday.

A viral story claims medieval European women poisoned husbands daily, giving an antidote at night. Historians say this practice never happened. Medieval Europe lacked the science for such precise poisoning. Similar tales appear in later folklore and popular culture, not medieval records. The story is a modern myth, not historical fact.

Amazon layoffs affected employees severance package details are drawing attention as Amazon plans to cut up to 16,000 roles. The explainer covers who is impacted, why jobs are cut, what severance support employees may receive, and how investors view the move.

The IRS officially opened 2026 tax filing on January 26. Experts predict a 30% refund surge due to the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. New federal breaks for seniors, families, and hourly workers are now active. Average payouts may exceed $4,000 this year. Use the Wheres My Refund? tool on IRS.gov to track your status. File electronically with direct deposit for the fastest processing.

Assam's Chief Minister announced a major electoral roll revision targeting the 'Miya' community. He expects to remove five lakh names. Meanwhile, opposition parties have raised serious concerns about the ongoing revision process. They allege illegal interference and irregularities in the deletion of genuine voters. The political climate in Assam remains charged over electoral integrity.

Quote of the Day: Walt Whitman, a renowned American poet, championed independent thinking. His words urge readers to question what they are told and trust their inner voice. Whitman's life, from humble beginnings to his influential work 'Leaves of Grass', highlights his commitment to intellectual freedom. His enduring message resonates today, encouraging personal authenticity and critical examination of beliefs.

India and the European Union have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement. This deal supports India's shift to export-focused manufacturing. It aims to significantly increase electronics exports, reaching nearly 50 billion US dollars by 2031. The agreement also promotes job creation and innovation. This partnership leverages India's manufacturing scale and Europe's technological expertise for long-term industrial growth.

Budget 2026: India is making significant strides in infrastructure development. The PM Gati Shakti program has successfully reduced logistics costs, boosting competitiveness. Future efforts will focus on expanding highways, ports, and railways, encouraging private participation. Developing smart cities and leveraging digital public infrastructure will further drive economic growth and help India achieve its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

A shocking murder unfolded on Ananthnagar Road. Prashanth M, 33, was killed by his friend Roshan Hegde, 36. Hegde deliberately crashed his SUV twice, causing fatal injuries to Prashanth who was clinging to the car. The incident was initially mistaken for an accident. Dashcam footage revealed the brutal act. The motive stemmed from a drunken argument following a cricket match.

Carlos Alcaraz has reached the Australian Open semi-finals for the first time. He will face Alexander Zverev next. Alcaraz defeated Alex de Minaur in straight sets. He is aiming to win his first Australian Open title. This victory would bring him closer to tennis history. Zverev also secured his semi-final spot. Novak Djokovic plays Lorenzo Musetti in another quarter-final.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Operation Sindoor for showcasing India's indigenous defence strength. He urged faster technology adoption, emphasizing 'survival of the fastest'. Singh called for reducing research-to-deployment time and encouraged DRDO to take risks in new sectors. He highlighted the growth in defence exports and the goal of an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'.

China and Russia are set to boost strategic coordination. Defence Minister Dong Jun conveyed this to his Russian counterpart during a video call. The move comes as Ukraine and Russia negotiators met to discuss peace. China maintains a neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict. Western nations accuse Beijing of aiding Russia's war effort.

US stock market today: US stocks enter a high-stakes week as futures edge higher. Gold smashed records, hitting $5,111 per ounce on massive safe-haven demand. President Trumps 100% tariff threat against Canada over China trade ties has rattled global markets. Meanwhile, USA Rare Earth (USAR) shares soared after securing $1.6 billion in federal funding. Investors now await the Federal Reserves Wednesday rate decision and major tech earnings for market direction.

Confucius thought of the day on life: Confucius, an ancient Chinese philosopher, taught that personal character, not achievement, builds a meaningful life. His ideas emphasize self-control, respect, and responsibility for societal harmony. Leading by example, not authority, influences others. Integrity and consistency matter more than status. Confucius's wisdom, rooted in daily actions, continues to guide individuals toward lasting respect and moral clarity.

The EU-India FTA, concluded on January 27, 2026, will eliminate or reduce tariffs on 96.6% of EU exports, saving 4 billion annually. The deal benefits all 27 EU member states through sector-specific advantages. Germany, France, Italy lead in automotive and machinery; Spain, Italy, Greece gain in olive oil and wine; Belgium, Netherlands in processed foods; and Austria, Finland, Denmark in high-tech equipment. Tariff cuts begin in early 2027, with full benefits rolling out over 510 years.

Maharashtra's ITIs will implement PM SETU for skill development, while Himachal Pradesh braces for heavy snowfall. A Supreme Court plea challenges UGC's caste discrimination definition. Internationally, India and the EU finalized a landmark free trade deal, boosting Renault's investment. Sports news sees Bangladesh out of the T20 WC, impacting media accreditation, and para-athlete Praveen Kumar receives the Padma Shri.

Rahul Gandhi criticizes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alleged plan to dismantle MGNREGA. Gandhi claims this move seeks to remove workers' wage negotiation rights and diminish panchayat authority. He asserts the government aims to concentrate power, reverting the country to an era of centralized rule.

Curated by nutritionist Heena Trivedi, these salads focus on gut health, hormones, glow, and sustainable energy proving salads can truly nourish, not starve, your body.

The EU-India Free Trade Agreement, concluded on January 27, 2026, marks a historic milestone after two decades of negotiations. It will eliminate or reduce tariffs on 96.6% of EU goods exports and 97% of Indian goods, creating a market of 2 billion people. Key benefits include sharp tariff cuts on cars (to 10% over 5 years), wine (to 2030%), olive oil, processed foods, and full removal on medical equipment, machinery, chemicals, and aircraft parts. The deal excludes sensitive sectors like dairy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement as the mother of all deals and a ew blueprint for common prosperity. He described the pact as India's biggest free trade agreement to date, marking a historic moment in bilateral engagement and underscoring deep political trust and shared ambition.

Fatima Sana Sheikh's saree selections combine timeless craftsmanship with a modern edge, vibrant colors, rich fabrics, and refined styling that elevate contemporary Indian ethnic fashion.

Congress leaders plan to speak with Shashi Tharoor. His absence from a Kerala election meeting sparked speculation. Tharoor cited prior commitments and issues with party leadership. The party wants to ensure unity for upcoming state polls. Tharoor's influence is noted. Some within the party have concerns about his stances. This development affects the Kerala Congress unit.

The Maharashtra Cabinet Infrastructure Committee, chaired by CM Devendra Fadnavis, has approved the 22,862 crore Metro Line 8 (Gold Line). The 35-km corridor will link Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports in just 30 minutes. Other approvals include the Nashik Ring Road for Kumbh Mela and Gadchiroli mineral highways.

India-EU trade deal cars list: European luxury cars are set to become more affordable in India following a new Free Trade Agreement. Import duties on EU-made cars will be phased down to 10% by 2030, with an initial sharp cut to 40% in 2026. This liberalization, applicable to cars above $15,000, promises significant price reductions for premium and performance models.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assures the public that new University Grants Commission regulations will be implemented fairly. These rules, updated on January 13, aim to prevent caste-based discrimination in higher education. Despite assurances, protests and political opposition have emerged, with some students and community members expressing concerns about potential discrimination.

France has banned social media for children under 15. The law also prohibits mobile phones in high schools. This measure aims to protect young minds from algorithmic influence and harmful content. Scientists and the public overwhelmingly support this move. The ban is set to take effect next September. Other European nations are considering similar steps to safeguard minors online.

India's vocational training system is getting a major AI upgrade. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is partnering with Microsoft to bring AI education to 200,000 students. This initiative will cover over 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes and National Skill Training Institutes.

Bobby Deols renewed style journey blends rugged masculinity with refined tailoring, proving confidence, age, and reinvention can redefine modern menswear effortlessly.

Para high-jumper Praveen Kumar, aged 23, has been awarded the Padma Shri. This marks a significant achievement for the Jewar-based athlete. He previously won silver at the Tokyo Paralympics and gold at the Paris Paralympics. Praveen also received the Arjuna Award and Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna. He continues to train and aims for new records.

A senior IPS officer addressed madrassa students on Republic Day. He encouraged them to read the Bhagavad Gita alongside the Quran. The officer also emphasized environmental conservation, scientific temper, and tolerance. He highlighted the importance of upholding India's integrity and unity. This initiative follows his previous directive for police recruits to recite religious texts for a righteous life.

Quote of the day by Maya Angelou stands as a concise expression of the principles she lived by, grace without submission and strength without malice. More than a line of wisdom, it reflects a philosophy shaped by survival, creativity and moral courage.

India's Goa state is considering an Australia-style social media ban for children under 16, citing mental health risks. This move follows Australia's recent implementation of a similar law, which deactivated millions of teen accounts. Other Indian states are also exploring comparable regulations for minors' online activities.

From power dressing to playful maximalism, these OTT shows didnt just entertain, they shaped wardrobes, inspired trends, and turned screens into global fashion runways.

Henry Kissinger, a noted American diplomat who led the United States through some of its most complicated foreign policy challenges, offered deep insights into diplomacy. Known for his acumen, intellect and sharp mind, Kissinger, in one of his quotes, warns that confidence doesnt always equal understanding. The loudest certainty often belongs to ignorance, while genuine knowledge tends to be thoughtful, tentative, and open to revision, Henry Kissinger tries to say through his thought.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday said that the central government remains open to suggestions from all political parties ahead of the Budget Session of Parliament.

India secured a key commitment from the EU in their trade pact. Any future concessions on carbon regulations will automatically extend to Indian exporters. The agreement also includes safeguards for Indian firms if EU measures impact pact benefits. Technical cooperation and financial assistance for reducing emissions are also part of the deal. This ensures India's interests are protected.

Adam Sandler's wisdom highlights how surroundings impact ambition. He notes that achieving great heights is challenging when one is with unmotivated individuals. The quote emphasizes the importance of choosing supportive company for personal and professional growth. This insight applies to careers, creativity, and life. Selecting the right people aids in reaching higher goals.

The Maharashtra cabinet has approved the PM SETU scheme for Industrial Training Institutes to boost skill development and youth employment. Initially rolled out in Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Pune, the program aims to modernize ITIs and facilitate job placements. Additionally, the cabinet approved using the TReDS platform for contractor payments and the revival of a cooperative spinning mill.

HBSE Date sheet 2025: The Haryana Board of School Education has announced the 2026 exam schedule for Class 10 and Class 12 students. Class 12 exams begin February 25, 2026, and Class 10 exams start February 26, 2026. Exams will be held offline. Students can download the official date sheets from the BSEH website. This timetable applies to all regular and private candidates.

Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya reported that out of 1.7 lakh declared illegal foreigners, only 467 have been repatriated. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urged voters to choose development over 'vote bank politics' and to resist 'Bangladeshi Muslims' who he claims threaten the state's identity and culture.