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The Economic Times

National / The Economic Times

Mother of all trade deals is loading: What it means for India

India and the EU are on the cusp of a landmark Free Trade Agreement, potentially dubbed the 'mother of all deals.' This pact, two decades in the making, aims to boost bilateral trade and investment, offering a crucial diversification avenue amidst rising protectionism. Key sticking points include market access for automobiles and agriculture, but a breakthrough could reshape global trade.

17 Jan 2026 3:57 pm
Inaugural Global Economic Cooperation forum to held in Mumbai Feb 17-19

Mumbai will host the Global Economic Cooperation 2026 summit from February 17-19. This forum will bring together governments, investors, and industry leaders. They will discuss economic diplomacy and cooperation in a changing global landscape. The event aims to shape practical pathways for collaboration in capital, infrastructure, technology, and energy. It will focus on key areas for global stability and prosperity.

17 Jan 2026 3:35 pm
Iran's Leader Khamenei calls Trump 'criminal' for causing casualties, damage, slander on Iranians

Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei said on Saturday that Iran considers U.S. President Donald Trump a criminal for inflicting casualties, damage, and slander on the Iranian people during the protests.

17 Jan 2026 3:31 pm
Technology must be used for welfare of society, people should not become slaves to it: Mohan Bhagwat

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed young entrepreneurs in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. He emphasized using technology for societal good without becoming dependent. Bhagwat highlighted that business should prioritize social responsibility alongside profit. He cited farmers' dedication to agriculture as an example of society-centric work. Bhagwat also stressed adapting technology to India's conditions and safeguarding employment.

17 Jan 2026 3:31 pm
Iran tensions easing, says Shashi Tharoor; cites halt to executions, softer US tone

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor noted positive developments in Iran, with cancelled executions and a toned-down US stance. He believes tensions are decreasing, offering hope for the people of Iran. However, Tharoor expressed doubt regarding the Gaza peace plan, citing ongoing violence and a lack of clear progress on Hamas disarmament. The situation remains tense.

17 Jan 2026 3:31 pm
Party had to split due to Sanjay Rauts actions: Sena spokesperson

Shiv Sena spokesperson Susieben Shah criticized Sanjay Raut for his remarks against Eknath Shinde. Shah stated Raut's actions caused the Shiv Sena's split. She thanked Mumbai citizens for the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance's success in the BMC elections. The alliance holds the majority and will appoint its mayor. Sanjay Raut had earlier accused Eknath Shinde of betrayal.

17 Jan 2026 3:26 pm
Malik thora galti ho gayi: DJ plays Microsoft Teams meeting sound at office party, sparks manager meme frenzy

An office party video is going viral. A DJ played the Microsoft Teams ringtone, a sound many dread. This unexpected mix with a popular meme line caused laughter and online chatter. The clip has resonated with corporate employees, turning a work sound into an unexpected party highlight. The video has garnered significant views and comments.

17 Jan 2026 3:08 pm
Woman killed after tree falls on her car south of Wollongong as winds and rain batter NSW coast, thousands warned to stay indoors; all you need to know

A woman has died in New South Wales after a tree branch fell on her car. The incident occurred on Macquarie Pass during severe weather. Emergency services responded to the scene. Police have closed the pass for several hours. Many SES volunteers are assisting with rescues across the state due to heavy rain and strong winds.

17 Jan 2026 2:52 pm
Quote of the day by William Wordsworth: What we need is not the will to believe

Quote of the Day invites readers to reflect on how they engage with ideas, traditions and information. Rather than promoting belief without scrutiny, Wordsworths words emphasise patience, openness and the courage to question.

17 Jan 2026 2:52 pm
Kerala takes responsible investment pitch to Davos, Rajeeve to lead team

Kerala is set to showcase its strengths at the World Economic Forum in Davos. A delegation will highlight the state's commitment to sustainable and high-tech industries. The focus will be on responsible investment and industry. Kerala aims to attract global investors by emphasizing its ESG-focused ecosystem. The state will present its transition to a knowledge-based, Industry 4.0 compliant model.

17 Jan 2026 2:50 pm
Not regular activity: MEA clarifies India did not participate in 'BRICS Naval Exercise'

India clarified that the 'BRICS Naval Exercise' was a South African initiative, not a regular BRICS activity, with India not participating. The drills, led by China and involving Russia and Iran, are underway near South Africa's coast amid rising global maritime tensions. India's regular maritime exercise in this context is IBSAMAR with Brazil and South Africa.

17 Jan 2026 2:47 pm
Ashok Gehlot alleges nearly 1,400 fake objections in Alwar draft voter list

Congress leader Ashok Gehlot has raised serious concerns over electoral roll revisions in Ramgarh, Alwar. He claims a BJP election agent filed 1,383 fake objections in one day. Gehlot alleges this is a conspiracy to undermine democracy and steal the public mandate. He has demanded criminal cases against those involved and strict action.

17 Jan 2026 2:47 pm
Six children among 14 killed in road accident due to fog in Pakistan's Punjab

A tragic accident occurred in Pakistan's Punjab province. A truck carrying 23 passengers, mostly a family, fell from a bridge in Kot Momin. Dense fog caused the driver to lose control. At least 14 people, including six children, died. Nine others were injured and are receiving treatment. The family was traveling to Faisalabad for a funeral.

17 Jan 2026 2:41 pm
Shivakumar scraps Davos tour to attend party meetings ahead of Assam polls

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has cancelled his Davos trip for the World Economic Forum. He will attend meetings in New Delhi regarding the Assam Assembly elections. Shivakumar is also leading a campaign against the Centre over MNREGA. This has led to a special session of the Karnataka Assembly. He is meeting senior Congress leaders in Delhi.

17 Jan 2026 2:33 pm
Taking Maharashtra to Davos

Maharashtra is presenting its investment potential at the World Economic Forum 2026. The state highlights its ability to convert ambition into measurable outcomes through scale, speed, and policy certainty. Maharashtra has attracted significant FDI, focusing on sunrise sectors and strengthening traditional manufacturing.

17 Jan 2026 2:29 pm
Senior Maoist among two killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh

Security forces eliminated two Naxalites in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh. Senior cadre Dilip Bedja was among those killed in the encounter. The gunfight occurred during an anti-Naxalite operation in the forested hills. Security personnel from the Special Task Force, District Reserve Guard, and CoBRA were involved. Bodies of two Naxalites and AK-47 rifles were recovered.

17 Jan 2026 2:26 pm
Maharashtra politics: BJP expands footprint as rivals shrink

The BJP has expanded its political presence in Maharashtra. This follows a strong performance in the November 2024 assembly elections. The party also achieved stellar results in recent civic polls across 29 municipal corporations. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is set to govern 25 of these corporations. Other parties have seen their political bases shrink significantly.

17 Jan 2026 2:25 pm
CRISIL flags strong headwinds for merchandise exports

Indian merchandise exports face challenges from the US-India trade deal stalemate and possible US sanctions on Russian crude oil. Tea and basmati rice may see pressure. However, the current account deficit is projected to stay manageable due to strong services trade and remittances.

17 Jan 2026 2:02 pm
Delhi Excise Policy case: Chargesheet against Kejriwal is cut-and-paste of earlier filings, argues counsel

A Delhi court heard arguments in the Excise Policy corruption case. Arvind Kejriwal's lawyer stated no evidence links him to the alleged Rs 100 crore payment. The chargesheet was described as a repetition of earlier filings. The court adjourned the matter for further hearing. The case involves allegations of undue influence on policy formulation.

17 Jan 2026 2:02 pm
CJI Kant lays foundation for court complexes across six UP districts

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has initiated the construction of integrated court complexes in six Uttar Pradesh districts. These facilities in Chandauli, Mahoba, Amethi, Shamli, Hathras, and Auraiya are expected to become a national standard. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was present at the foundation-laying ceremony. The Chief Justice expressed his intent to promote these developments across India.

17 Jan 2026 2:01 pm
MCD to set aside Rs 35 crore for microchipping, vaccinating stray dogs in upcoming budget

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi plans a significant budget allocation for stray dog management. Around Rs 35 crore is earmarked for microchipping and vaccination. This initiative aims to improve public safety and animal health. The corporation will spend Rs 20 crore directly, with Rs 15 crore through NGO partnerships. A target of 25,000 dogs will be microchipped and vaccinated soon.

17 Jan 2026 1:55 pm
Babar Azam humiliated, Rizwan retired, Afridi pulled out mid-over: Netizens mock Pakistan premium players performance in BBL

Pakistani cricket stars Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi faced scrutiny during Australia's Big Bash League. Azam's visible frustration after being denied a run and his subsequent dismissal sparked online debate. Rizwan's quiet innings and Afridi's mid-over withdrawal added to the discussion. Steve Smith's dominant century led Sydney Sixers to victory.

17 Jan 2026 1:45 pm
Murshidabad sees fresh unrest with highway, rail traffic blocked over migrant worker assault

Protests erupted again in Murshidabad, West Bengal on Saturday. Locals blocked National Highway-12 and railway tracks at Beldanga. This followed allegations of another migrant worker being assaulted in Bihar. The unrest reignited anger after a previous death. Police are working to restore normalcy. Efforts are underway to prevent further violence.

17 Jan 2026 1:43 pm
PM Modi flags off Indias first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah-Guwahati in poll-bound West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off Indias first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah-Guwahati (Kamakhya) from Malda Town Railway Station on Saturday, boosting rail connectivity in poll-bound West Bengal.

17 Jan 2026 1:38 pm
Word of the Day: Liminal

In a post-pandemic world marked by rapid change, many people experience life as a series of unresolved transitions, career shifts, identity questions, and geopolitical realignments. Liminal gives language to this shared sense

17 Jan 2026 1:38 pm
Tamil Nadu Elections: AIADMK announces first wave of promises

AIADMK has unveiled its initial election promises for the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. Key pledges include Rs 2,000 monthly aid for women heads of families and free bus travel for men. The party also plans housing schemes and enhanced employment opportunities. AIADMK aims to regain power in the state.

17 Jan 2026 1:37 pm
Raj Thackeray admits MNS's poor BMC polls performance, vows to fight for Marathi manoos

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray has accepted his party's disappointing performance in the BMC elections. He stated the contest was between 'Shiv Shakti and money power'. Despite the setback, Thackeray urged party workers to remain steadfast in their commitment to Marathi manoos and Marathi asmita. He assured that MNS corporators would challenge any actions against Marathi interests.

17 Jan 2026 1:35 pm
Treaties should be driven by national interest, not pressure from foreign govts or corporations: Supreme Court

India's Supreme Court has ruled that tax treaties must prioritize national interest over foreign pressure, emphasizing the need to protect tax sovereignty and prevent abuse. Justice Pardiwala's opinion highlighted that international tax pacts require transparency, periodic reviews, and strong exit clauses. The court upheld the taxation of capital gains from Tiger Global's Flipkart exit, reinforcing these principles for future agreements.

17 Jan 2026 1:25 pm
Centre revives three long-stalled Yamuna dam projects to shore up Delhis water supply

The Centre has revived three stalled dam projects on the Yamuna and its tributaries. These projects, Lakhwar, Renukaji, and Kishau, aim to significantly boost Delhi's water supply. Officials state the dams could meet the capital's drinking water needs for the next 25 years. Water supply is expected to commence within five to seven years.

17 Jan 2026 1:23 pm
Pakistan security forces kill 12 terrorists in Balochistan

Pakistani security forces neutralized 12 terrorists in Balochistan after an attack on two banks and a police station in Kharan town. The militants had looted 3.4 million PKR and taken hostages, who were later rescued unharmed. This incident marks the year's largest terror attack in the restive province.

17 Jan 2026 12:56 pm
30 Tableaux to roll down Kartavya Path during Republic Day Parade in Delhi

Over 30 tableaux will showcase India's cultural heritage and developmental achievements on Kartavya Path during the Republic Day Parade. Themes of freedom and self-reliance will be highlighted, with states and ministries presenting unique narratives. The parade will also feature 2,500 artists and distinguished European leaders as Chief Guests.

17 Jan 2026 12:55 pm
Amazon iPhone Republic Day Sale: iPhone 17 Pro at Rs 85,700 and iPhone Air at Rs 91,000. Check how to get the deal

Amazon iPhone Republic Day Sale: Amazon's Great Republic Day Sale brings massive price drops on popular smartphones. The iPhone 17 Pro is now available at an effective cost of Rs 85,700. The iPhone 17 Air sees a sharp reduction to Rs 91,249. Deals extend to Samsung, OnePlus, and iQOO models. Budget-friendly options are also part of the sale.

17 Jan 2026 12:53 pm
Police stop BRS cadres from taking part in rally demanding Secunderabad Municipal Corporation

Police stopped BRS cadres attempting to hold a peace rally in Hyderabad. The rally aimed to demand a separate Secunderabad Municipal Corporation. Former Minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav had organized the event. BRS leaders stated party workers were prevented from participating and taken into custody. Senior leader T Harish Rao condemned the actions.

17 Jan 2026 12:40 pm
Indian Army develops third 120-feet-long Bailey bridge in Sri Lanka

This achievement follows the earlier successful launch of two Bailey bridges in the Jaffna and Kandy regions. Collectively, these engineering efforts have restored road connectivity, improved access to essential services, and provided much-needed relief to communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah.

17 Jan 2026 12:36 pm
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi not averse to joining politics

Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has relocated to Islamabad. He has expressed openness to entering politics in the future. Afridi desires to witness Pakistan's prosperity. He believes this is achievable when governments and institutions complete their constitutional tenures. He feels Pakistan and its cricket have provided him with much. He wishes to contribute to his nation's progress.

17 Jan 2026 12:35 pm
EUMercosur free trade pact to be signed after 25 years

The South American trade bloc Mercosur and the European Union will sign on Saturday a deal 25 years in the making to create one of the world's largest free trade areas at a time of growing protectionism and volatility. The deal will favor European exports of cars, wine and cheese, while making it easier for South American beef, poultry, sugar, rice, honey and soybeans to enter Europe.

17 Jan 2026 11:49 am
Shell and Mitsubishi explore exit options from LNG Canada amid expansion talks and market uncertainty

Global energy markets are shifting. Major investors Shell and Mitsubishi are considering selling parts of their stakes in Canada's LNG project. This comes as the project's owners look at a significant expansion. The project offers cost advantages but faces fears of global oversupply. Decisions on potential sales are not guaranteed.

17 Jan 2026 11:47 am
'Blow to self-proclaimed Vishwaguru's self-boastful diplomacy': Congress on US-Pak military exercise

The Congress criticized the Modi government following joint US-Pakistan military training, calling it a blow to India's diplomacy. The exercise, 'Inspired Gambit 2026', focused on counter-terrorism and infantry skills. This development follows past US praise for Pakistan as a counter-terrorism partner, raising concerns about India's foreign policy stance.

17 Jan 2026 11:47 am
Elon Musk seeks up to $134 billion damages from OpenAI, Microsoft

Elon Musk is seeking $79 billion to $134 billion in damages from OpenAI and Microsoft, alleging fraud for abandoning nonprofit roots. A financial expert calculated these damages based on Musk's initial investment and contributions. A jury trial is set for late April, with OpenAI calling the lawsuit baseless harassment.

17 Jan 2026 11:42 am
World Economic Forum: Global risks enter Age of Competition as geoeconomic tensions dominate 2026 outlook

The world is entering what the World Economic Forum (WEF) calls an Age of Competition, marked by intensifying geoeconomic rivalry, rising societal polarization and accelerating technological disruption, according to the Global Risks Report 2026, released ahead of the WEF annual event.

17 Jan 2026 11:04 am
US, Pakistani troops conclude joint training exercise 'Inspired Gambit 2026' in Pabbi

American and Pakistani soldiers have completed joint training in Pakistan. The exercise, named 'Inspired Gambit 2026', focused on infantry skills and counterterrorism tactics. This event marks a strengthening of defence ties between the two nations. The training took place at Pakistan's National Counter-Terrorism Centre. This collaboration highlights renewed engagement between the US and Pakistani defense establishments.

17 Jan 2026 10:58 am
Maharashtra civic polls: From Fadnavis, AIMIM to Thackerays, here are 10 biggest winners and losers

The Maharashtra civic elections 2026 saw the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieve a significant victory, securing over 1,800 seats statewide and ending Shiv Sena's long-held control of the BMC. Devendra Fadnavis and the BJP emerged as major winners, while Uddhav Thackeray's Sena and the Congress faced substantial setbacks. The results underscore a shift in urban Maharashtra's political landscape.

17 Jan 2026 10:57 am
This battle is not over...: Shiv Sena (UBT) reacts to BMC loss

Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) (UBT) on Saturday gave its first reaction following the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, striking a defiant tone and signalling that the political fight in Maharashtra is far from over and will continue until the Marathi community receives the respect it deserves.

17 Jan 2026 10:52 am
Quote of the day by Bob Hawke: The things which are most important don't always

Bob Hawke served as Australia's 23rd Prime Minister. He was known for his charisma and negotiation skills. Hawke guided Australia through major economic changes. These included financial deregulation and floating the Australian dollar. He also focused on social and environmental issues. His leadership left a lasting impact on modern Australia. Hawke remains a popular and influential figure.

17 Jan 2026 10:52 am
Kutch earthquake: 4.1 magnitude quake hits Gujarat district

A 4.1 magnitude earthquake jolted Gujarat's Kutch district early Saturday, causing panic but no reported casualties or damage. The tremor's epicenter was located 55 km north northeast of Khavda. Kutch, situated in a high-risk seismic zone, regularly experiences such events, a reminder of the devastating 2001 earthquake.

17 Jan 2026 10:30 am
150 years of Vande Mataram to be celebrated at Republic Day 2026, European dignitaries to attend

This year's Republic Day parade on January 26 will celebrate 150 years of 'Vande Mataram'. The event will highlight India's military might and rich culture. Special guests from various fields will attend. The parade will feature advanced military equipment and cultural displays. The theme 'Vande Mataram' will be central to the celebrations.

17 Jan 2026 10:30 am
Florida roadway added to list of things named after Trump

A road near President Donald Trump's Florida club has been renamed in his honor. This marks the latest in a series of projects and buildings bearing his name since he returned to office. The renaming is symbolic and does not affect official addresses. Trump expressed his honor at the gesture.

17 Jan 2026 10:26 am
US names Rubio, Tony Blair, Kushner & World Bank President Ajay Banga to Gaza board under Trump's plan

The White House has unveiled a Board of Peace to oversee Gaza's temporary governance, including figures like Tony Blair and Jared Kushner, with Donald Trump as chair. This international body will supervise a Palestinian technocratic administration. Concerns about colonial structures and past controversies surround the appointments, with no Palestinians initially named to the board.

17 Jan 2026 10:18 am