The Economic Times

Nipah virus update: Airports in Taiwan, Nepal and Thailand have reintroduced Covid-style health checks after five cases of Nipah virus were reported in West Bengal. These South Asian airports have reinstated airport health screenings, especially for travellers arriving from high-risk areas. According to WHO, symptoms of Nipah can include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat.

India and the European Union have inked an innovative free trade agreement, marking a new era in economic collaboration. This pact will dramatically cut tariffs on a wide array of EU imports to India, setting the stage for a massive trade bloc of two billion individuals.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Kaja Kallas, Vice President of the European Commission. They discussed strengthening India-EU security and defence ties. The focus was on integrating supply chains and building future-ready capabilities. This meeting highlights potential for closer economic and strategic collaboration between India and Europe. Both sides are optimistic about expanding joint initiatives.

India and the European Union have finalized a Free Trade Agreement. Tariffs on cars will significantly decrease from 110% to 10% for 250,000 vehicles annually. This agreement marks a significant step in bilateral trade. Total trade between India and the EU exceeded 190 billion US dollars in 2024-25. India's exports to the EU reached 75.

Europe and India have made history by concluding a free trade agreement. This landmark deal, after 18 years of talks, creates a free trade zone for two billion people. Both sides are set to benefit from this partnership between two major economies. The agreement marks a significant step forward for both regions.

Australia is battling a severe heatwave. Ouyen in Victoria could see 49 degrees Celsius, potentially a state record. New South Wales and South Australia also face extreme heat. Multiple bushfires are burning across Victoria, with some out of control. Authorities have issued warnings and evacuation orders as the threat of bushfires intensifies.

Vijay Chowk, Kartavya Path in Delhi, will remain closed today from 4 AM to 6 AM due to the Beating Retreat rehearsal today. Police have advised commuters to take Ring Road, Ridge Road, Aurobindo Marg, Madarsa T-Point, Safdarjung Road due to the traffic restrictions in place. The main Beating Retreat ceremony will be held on January 29.

The Madras High Court has overturned a previous order. This order had directed the immediate release of the censor certificate for the film Jana Nayagan. The court found the single judge acted prematurely. The case will now be reconsidered. This means the film's release faces further delays. The producers had alleged undue delays by the censor board.

Electric car sales in Europe surpassed petrol car sales in December. This happened even as policymakers considered easing emissions rules. Tesla saw its market share decline against rivals like BYD and Volkswagen. Overall car sales in Europe grew for the sixth consecutive month. Registrations reached a five-year high in 2025. This indicates a strong shift towards electric vehicles.

China's lending to developing nations has significantly decreased. Poorer countries are now sending more money back to China in debt payments than they receive in new loans. Multilateral institutions have stepped in, becoming the primary source of development finance. This shift impacts African nations, affecting their ability to fund public services and investments.

US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra warned that Canada's airspace could see increased F-35 presence, even if Ottawa abandons its planned purchase. He stated the US would acquire more F-35s to protect the continent, leading to more frequent flights into Canadian airspace. This comes as Canada reviews its $19 billion deal for 88 F-35 jets.

Today's word of the day 'disheveled' means looking untidy, rumpled, or not properly arranged.' Disheveled is an adjective used to describe someone or something that appears messy or untidy.

A devastating fire engulfed two warehouses in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district. The blaze claimed at least eight lives, with more feared trapped. Firefighters battled the inferno for over 24 hours. Charred bodies and skeletal remains were recovered. Investigations into the cause and damage are ongoing. Families await identification of victims.

India and the European Union have signed a significant technology and defence partnership, marking a crucial step in strengthening bilateral ties amidst a complex global landscape. This agreement, coinciding with India's 75th Republic Day, aims to enhance cooperation in maritime security, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism, fostering closer ties between the two ancient civilizations.

Foreign companies in Taiwan are enhancing emergency plans amid growing security worries. However, actual disruptions from China tensions are minimal. A survey by AmCham Taiwan reveals most firms plan to maintain or increase investments. Companies are improving risk management through resilience planning. A double taxation agreement with the U.S. is anticipated for approval in 2026.

Heavy snowfall in Kashmir caused the cancellation of around 50 flights at Srinagar International Airport on Tuesday. Adverse weather conditions led airlines to ground inbound and outbound services. This disruption has left hundreds of tourists stranded. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for updates and alternative travel plans. The snowfall continued as reports came in.

India told the UN Security Council that Pakistan's use of terrorism as state policy is unacceptable. India's envoy rejected Pakistan's narrative on Operation Sindoor. India stated that terrorism can never be normalized. India will protect its citizens. Pakistan has no standing on Jammu and Kashmir. India also commented on Pakistan's internal legal matters.

Influencer Sammy Yahood faces a visa ban from Australia. He was scheduled to speak at events for Jewish audiences. Yahood, a critic of Islam, calls the Australian government tyrannical. He claims the decision was made at the last minute. Yahood has a significant online following and advocates for Western values. He previously called for banning Islam.

Government capital spending is set to surge past Rs 12 lakh crore by FY27. This marks a significant increase, reflecting a strong focus on infrastructure development. The report highlights a steady rise in government-led capital expenditure over the years. This sustained push aims to fuel economic growth and build national assets.

India has firmly rejected Pakistan's statements regarding Operation Sindoor. New Delhi asserted that Pakistan has no right to comment on India's internal matters, especially Jammu and Kashmir. India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack was a measured action against terrorist infrastructure. India also highlighted Pakistan's violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and advised introspection on its own rule of law.

High Potential Season 2 Episode 11 release time and how to watch details are now confirmed. The ABC series returns after a break with a new episode. Viewers can check the air time, streaming options, episode schedule, cast details, and story background in this explainer.

Mumbai and Thane are bracing for light rain spells today as the IMD issued a yellow nowcast warning. The IMD has issued a light rainfall alert for parts of North Maharashtra on Tuesday. Pune is likely to see a partly cloudy weather today and the cloud cover in the city is expected to increase in the coming days.

Wonder Man release time, episode schedule, how to watch, plot and cast details are now confirmed. The Marvel series streams on Disney+ with all episodes released together. The show stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and features returning MCU characters.

Himachal Pradesh weather: At a time when tourists are stranded in Manali and Shimla, the IMD has warned of more snowfall in the state for the next few days. Shimla may see a cold day today and a yellow alert has been issued. Manali may also see snowfall today and mercury may plunge to -1 degrees Celsius tomorrow. An orange alert has been issued for Kullu, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Lahaul and Spiti districts.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka stormed into the Australian Open semi-finals with a dominant 6-3, 6-0 win over Iva Jovic. The Belarusian showcased her formidable power in punishing heat, securing her 14th Grand Slam semi-final appearance. Sabalenka, a two-time Melbourne champion, now eyes a third title, having previously won in 2023 and 2024.

Brazil Lula India visit: India and Brazil are members of the BRICS grouping, which Trump has repeatedly criticised, alleging efforts to weaken the US dollar through trade in national currencies.

US-Canada spat: Trump threatened this past weekend to impose a 100% tariff on goods imported from Canada if America's northern neighbour went ahead with a trade deal with Beijing, though Carney has said Canada has no interest in negotiating a comprehensive trade deal with Beijing.

Fallout Season 2 Episode 7 will release early on January 27 on Amazon Prime Video. Fans can watch the episode at 6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET in the US. This guide provides global release times, schedule, and details on how to stream the episode, plus information about the Season 2 finale.

Delhi weather update: After experiencing the coldest Republic Day since 2021, Delhi is likely to witness light rain and low temperatures today, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted. Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad are also likely to experience one or two spells of rain with thunderstorms and lightning. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi-NCR for Tuesday, predicting one to two spells of light rain and gusty winds up to 40km/hr.

Wednesday Season 3 release date, filming, production and cast update explains where the Netflix series stands now. The report covers story direction, returning and new cast, filming schedule, production details, and the expected Netflix release window based on confirmed updates.

Minnesota shooting: Corporate leaders in Minnesota are breaking their silence on immigration enforcement after federal agents fatally shot a protester. Major CEOs have called for de-escalation, marking a significant shift in public opinion. This comes as businesses previously feared criticising President Trump.

Singles Inferno Season 5 Part 2 Episode 5 and 6 release time, schedule, what to expect and how to watch details when new episodes drop on Netflix, global timings, full release plan, recap of Part 1, upcoming events, and streaming details for viewers worldwide.

Greg Bovino: Federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis is scaling back following the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti. Commander Gregory Bovino and some agents are departing after criticism over the incident and controversial remarks. Mayor Frey is pushing for the full departure of the operation, emphasizing cooperation on criminal investigations but not unconstitutional arrests.

S&P 500, Dow, Nasdaq today: US stocks closed higher on Monday, propelled by gains in major tech companies like Apple, Meta, and Microsoft ahead of their earnings reports. Investors also monitored political developments, including a US tariff threat on Canada and fears of a government shutdown, while gold prices surged to record highs amid market uncertainty.

Hypethral meaning: Discover 'hypethral,' a fascinating word describing spaces open to the sky, like ancient courtyards. This architectural term, a variant of 'hypaethral,' originates from Greek and Latin, meaning 'under the sky.' Learn its pronunciation and see how it vividly paints a picture of unroofed, airy structures, inviting you to explore its unique usage.

Many companies are asking employees to return to offices after long remote work periods. Workers are facing hot desking, crowded spaces, poor WiFi, and no personal desks. Team leads worry this will make hiring harder. Employees feel management cares more about using office space than their comfort or productivity, causing debate online about RTO policies and office planning.

The 1947-48 contest against India was Bradman's final home Test series before retiring in 1948 with a career batting average of 99.94, earning him the reputation as crickets greatest batter. The series marked Indias first Test tour of Australia as an independent nation.

India and the European Union have concluded talks for a free trade agreement. This pact, the 'mother of all deals', marks 18 years of discussions. Legal review is underway, with signing expected later this year and implementation early next year. The agreement aims to boost trade and investment between the two major economic blocs.

French food maker Vitagermine has recalled specific batches of its Babybio infant formula due to a toxin contamination scare. This precautionary measure follows similar recalls by major dairy companies like Danone and Nestle. The contamination involves cereulide, a toxin that can cause nausea and vomiting.

Union Budget 2026: India's emerging private space sector is urging the government to classify space assets as critical infrastructure. This move aims to unlock low-cost financing and boost private investment. Companies are requesting government funding to procure products and services from domestic players. Such support is seen as vital for scaling operations and making India a global leader in space and AI.

Paris Men's Fashion Week concluded with designers favouring practical and enduring styles. This approach reflects a cautious industry mood amid global economic concerns. Classic suits and muted colours dominated runways. Some designers, however, experimented with bolder looks. The focus was on creating lasting pieces rather than fleeting trends.