The Economic Times

Skywatchers are preparing for one of 2026s most beautiful lunar events as a rare Blue Moon rises alongside bright stars and planets. Even though Blue Moons do not actually appear blue, they continue to capture public fascination because of their rarity and unique timing.

The Reserve Bank of India has announced the Assistant Prelims Result 2026. Candidates can check their status on the official RBI opportunities portal. Over 8,000 aspirants have qualified for the upcoming Mains examination. The Mains exam is scheduled for June 7, 2026. Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for this crucial stage.

She was handed $400 million and one impossible mission make Huawei independent from foreign chips. Years later, He Tingbo emerged as Chinas powerful Chip Queen, leading the company through brutal US sanctions and Americas tech blockade. From building Kirin processors to driving Huaweis AI future, her rise has become one of the biggest semiconductor success stories in the global tech war.

Ladakh Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena launched an integrated Ease of Doing Business portal to bring multiple government services onto a single digital platform. The portal currently links 13 departments and offers 23 online services, including approvals, registrations and clearances.

Fuel price hikes could soon push up fruit and vegetable costs in Delhi. Traders at Azadpur mandi anticipate higher transport expenses. This increase in logistics costs will likely be passed on to consumers. Retail prices may see a slight rise in the coming days if fuel prices continue their upward trend.

Memorial Day 2026 will feature nationwide parades, ceremonies, and gatherings honoring fallen U.S. military members. From Washington D.C.'s National Memorial Day Parade to unique tributes in Hawaii, communities will blend solemn remembrance with patriotic celebrations. The holiday weekend also unofficially marks the start of summer for many families.

India's statistics ministry is set to unveil a new way to measure industrial output next week. Key changes include expanding the sectors tracked and adopting a chain-linked framework. The base year will be updated, and new sectors like renewable power and waste management will be included. This aims to provide a more accurate picture of India's evolving industrial landscape.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has announced a significant relief package for farmers. Marginal farmers with cooperative bank crop loans up to Rs 50,000 will see their dues fully waived. Large farmers will receive a flat relief of Rs 5,000 towards their crop loan repayment. This initiative aims to benefit 14.

Best Memorial Day sales: Memorial Day sales bring big savings across top stores. Shoppers can find deals on electronics, home goods, and outdoor gear. Popular items like MacBooks, grills, and cooling fans are discounted. Retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and REI are participating. These promotions are available through Memorial Day Monday.

Heightened weather activity is observed across India as storm systems over the Himalayas and the approaching southwest monsoon towards Kerala signal significant changes. The IMD has issued rain and thunderstorm alerts for Himalayan states due to a strong western disturbance, while Kerala braces for heavy rainfall with the monsoon's early onset predicted around May 26.

U.S. dollar index fell about 0.3 per cent to 98.969. Euro rose 0.40 per cent to $1.1649 and the British pound gained 0.55 per cent to $1.35044. The Australian dollar advanced 0.64 per cent at $0.7174, while its kiwi counterpart tacked on 0.5 per cent to $0.58750.

Pollution levels in North India and the Himalayas have risen sharply. Particulate matter pollution increased over 20 percent in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, Himalayas, and North-East India between 2010 and 2019. Biomass burning is the primary driver of this pollution. Emissions from Punjab and Bihar are reaching the Himalayas, impacting these sensitive regions.

Power department employees in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda district were filmed using a stand fan and water to cool an overheated transformer amidst North India's intense heatwave. The unconventional method aimed to prevent transformer failure and maintain electricity supply during peak demand. The viral video highlights the strain on power infrastructure during extreme summer conditions.

A 60-year-old disabled security guard was allegedly beaten and run over twice by an SUV after an argument at a tempo stand in Delhis Peeragarhi. CCTV footage of the incident has shocked social media users, many of whom called the attack inhuman and demanded strict punishment for those involved. Police have registered a murder case and launched a search for the accused.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called on banks to move beyond standard loan products. She emphasized the need for repayment structures that align with the specific income cycles of different businesses. This initiative aims to provide tailored credit solutions for MSMEs, supporting their growth and contributing to a stronger middle class and a developed India.

Memorial Day has arrived, and whether shoppers are searching for last-minute snacks, drinks or barbecue essentials, most will still have plenty of dining and retail options available on Monday. Most national retailers, grocery chains and restaurants are expected to remain open for the holiday. However, banks and post offices will be closed, while the stock market will also pause trading in observance of the federal holiday.

Indian companies face near-term credit challenges due to high energy prices. Geopolitical risks and trade developments also shape the corporate landscape. While some sectors like capital goods and defence show strength, others like aviation and fertilisers face headwinds. Weather patterns could impact rural demand for sectors such as tractors and FMCGs.

Mortgage interest rates today: Over recent days and weeks, U.S. Treasury investors have focused on the elusiveness of a deal and long-term consequences of the war, lifting yields well above 4.5 per cent on the benchmark 10-year note.

As heatwave conditions continue across India, cooling fruit shakes can help you stay refreshed and hydrated throughout the day. From watermelon mint shake to pineapple coconut and mango banana blends, these six easy homemade summer drinks are simple, tasty and perfect for dealing with extreme heat naturally.

Is the US stock market open today? Here are the trading hours of Dow Jones, Nasdaq, S&P 500 and NYSE for Memorial Day 2026. As millions of Americans pause for Memorial Day, Wall Street goes quiet too. Here is everything investors need to know about stock market hours, holiday closures, and what comes next.

Mosquitoes become a major problem during Indian summers and monsoons, but you do not always need a mosquito net to stay protected. From removing stagnant water to using natural smells and simple evening habits, these five easy tips can help keep mosquitoes away from your home naturally and comfortably.

A Bengaluru resident shared seven habits that significantly reduced his monthly expenses without compromising his lifestyle. By moving closer to the Metro, curbing convenience spending, planning weekends, cooking at home, and resisting gadget upgrades driven by social pressure, he found a more sustainable way to manage finances in the city.

President Droupadi Murmu presented India's top civilian honours. Violinist N. Rajam received the Padma Vibhushan for her classical music contributions. Former Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and banker Uday Kotak were awarded the Padma Bhushan. Actor Dharmendra was posthumously honoured with the Padma Vibhushan for his cinema work. His wife Hema Malini accepted the award.

Hip replacement surgeries among Indians in their 30s and 40s have reportedly risen by nearly 40 per cent in the post-Covid period. Doctors say the increase is largely linked to steroid-related bone damage and delayed diagnosis of avascular necrosis (AVN), a painful condition that can lead to severe hip arthritis and collapse of the hip joint in younger patients.

Students seeking Kerala CM Kids LSS and USS 2026 results may encounter delays on the official website. The portal bpekerala.in can experience heavy traffic. Alternative official sites and troubleshooting steps are available for accessing scorecards. Candidates who appeared for the February 2026 examination can retrieve their marks. Patience and trying alternate options are advised for result access.

Quote of the Day: Plato's observation that love is a serious mental disease highlights its overwhelming and irrational power, leading to altered perceptions and hasty decisions. While not inherently negative, this quote emphasizes how unchecked love can override reason, causing emotional blindness and a loss of control. The idea remains relevant today, reminding us that love requires awareness beyond mere emotion.

Meet Scott Remer: Scott Remer, believed to be Americas only full-time elite spelling bee coach, is once again in the spotlight after reports revealed he charges families up to $180 an hour to train children for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The Yale and Cambridge graduate has coached several national champions, including Dev Shah and Faizan Zaki.

A recent conference in New Delhi brought together experts to discuss strengthening India-Israel ties. Participants called for deeper collaboration in defense, technology, culture, and trade. The discussions highlighted the need for greater public understanding of this important relationship. The forum aims to foster informed conversations and bridge perception gaps between the two nations.

Pune Ban news: Pune's civic body has imposed a 14-day ban on public gatherings starting May 26 to curb rising fuel expenses. The Pune Municipal Corporation is implementing strict measures to reduce fuel consumption by municipal vehicles, urging officials to prioritize public transport and carpooling for official duties.

Iran and the US are nearing an understanding on a 14-point memorandum of understanding. Discussions focus on ending the Middle East war and a US naval blockade. In return, Iran would ensure safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz. While progress is reported, difficult issues like Iran's nuclear program and sanctions remain. A deal is not yet imminent.

Word of the Day: Clinquant is more than just an elegant synonym for flashy. The word speaks to illusion itself, the conflict between outward beauty and genuine value. In a world increasingly shaped by aesthetics, branding and carefully curated identities, the term feels strikingly relevant.

The Supreme Court has announced the creation of a dedicated expert committee to delineate the Aravalli hills' boundaries. With a focus on community engagement, the panel will include five to seven members who will collaborate with specialists and the public. This decision follows earlier directives that temporarily stopped mining activities and established a collective definition.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai believes the next generation will rise to the challenge of artificial intelligence. He acknowledges public worry about AI's impact on jobs. Pichai plans to share his experiences at Stanford, emphasizing that graduates will both drive AI progress and manage its effects. He said he has always been extraordinarily optimistic about the next generation.

The Supreme Court has urged the Centre to ensure girls continue their education without interruption. The apex court stressed the importance of providing free sanitary napkins and functional, gender-segregated toilets in all schools. This directive aims to uphold gender justice and educational equity across India.

Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar advises against overanalyzing food and restrictive diets, stating that they diminish enjoyment and can lead to stronger cravings. She emphasizes that satisfying, complete meals are crucial for managing hunger and preventing late-night snacking. Diwekar advocates for mindful eating, where food is enjoyed intentionally rather than out of desperation.

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has assured that residents facing the Munambam land dispute will not be evicted. His government will legally fight to protect their land rights. Satheesan alleged the Waqf Board's registration of the land on the UMEED portal was politically motivated. The BJP supports the protesting residents. The dispute is a politically sensitive issue in Kerala.

Euphoria Season 3: The penultimate episode, titled Rain or Shine, pushed nearly every major character to the edge emotionally. While viewers anticipated betrayal, violence and chaos, few expected the shocking turn the episode took.

A 12-year-old girl was allegedly sold by her mother for Rs 16,000 and 10 saris in Uttar Pradesh. She was then subjected to repeated sexual assault by a 40-year-old man and later abused again by an auto driver after being abandoned. Police have arrested the mother, the man, and the auto driver.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has postponed a hearing concerning anticipatory bail for former judge Giribala Singh. This case pertains to the death of her daughter-in-law, Twisha Sharma. Sharma's family has accused her husband and in-laws of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide.

Apple is preparing to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026. The event will also introduce Apple's first foldable phone. The new iPhones are expected to feature an A20 chipset and camera upgrades. India prices are anticipated to be similar to previous models. New colour options are also rumoured.

Uttar Pradesh has set a new record for electricity supply. Energy Minister AK Sharma announced peak demand reached 31,804 MW on Sunday night. This figure is claimed to be the highest in the state's and the country's history. Urban areas are receiving up to 24 hours of uninterrupted power, while rural areas get around 22 to 22.5 hours daily.