The Economic Times

India and Austria are deepening ties through discussions on trade, technology, and peacekeeping. Building on recent high-level meetings, Austria is also attracting more Indian students to its universities. Both countries seek to expand economic and cultural exchanges, with regular official consultations sustaining momentum and enhancing bilateral engagement.

Congress is in talks with DMK regarding seat sharing for upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, Chief Minister MK Stalin declared DMK will not yield to the BJP. He criticized the BJP and AIADMK. Stalin urged party workers to aim for a significant victory, targeting 200 seats. DMK has appointed seven lakh booth agents across the state.

National Science Day 2026: National Science Day 2026 is observed in India every year on February 28 to honour the scientific discovery made by Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (C.V. Raman). The Raman Effect explains how light changes when it passes through a clear material. This year's theme is Women in Science: Catalyzing Viksit Bharat.

US President Donald Trump expressed strong positive relations with Pakistan. He praised its leadership and stated the country is performing exceptionally well. Meanwhile, a US State Department official conveyed condolences for recent conflict casualties. The US also affirmed support for Pakistan's right to defend itself against Taliban attacks. The situation remains under close observation.

The United Nations is deeply concerned by escalating violence between Afghanistan and Pakistan. UN chief Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate end to the fighting. He urged both sides to resolve differences through diplomacy. Humanitarian officials are worried about the impact on civilians and infrastructure. Years of conflict have left millions needing aid.

The Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha are heating up. The Congress party suspects horse trading for the fourth seat. They propose that the BJD and Congress support an independent candidate of eminence. This move aims to prevent unethical practices in politics. The Congress will soon reveal its choice for the candidate.

Actor Robert De Niro has sharply criticized Donald Trump. He warns of an internal crisis facing the United States. De Niro urges peaceful public resistance before the midterm elections. He believes the polls are crucial for the country's future. The goal is to remove Trump from office. This ongoing feud has seen strong exchanges between the two.

A Duty Magistrate at Patiala House Court granted bail to Indian Youth Congress President Udai Bhanu Chib after a late-night hearing at her residence in the AI Summit protest case. Chib was produced before the magistrate around 12.30 am after completing four days of police custody.

US President Donald Trump has called Iran very difficult and dangerous. He is considering the next steps in nuclear negotiations. Trump prefers a peaceful resolution to ongoing military tensions in the Middle East. He stated that any deal with Iran must be meaningful. The US is not happy with Iran's negotiation approach.

Two teenage boys have been arrested and charged following a machete attack on a 54-year-old man at Sydney's Bondi Beach. The incident reportedly began with an argument over an e-bike, escalating to a physical confrontation where the man sustained stab wounds. Both youths face multiple charges and were refused bail.

Indias shift in the national accounts base year to 2022-23 has lifted real GDP growth estimates for 2025-26 to 7.6 per cent from 7.4 per cent earlier, reflecting structural economic changes and new data sources. The revision also raised 2026-27 projections to 7-7.4 per cent. Analysts say the update enhances credibility, aligns with global standards, and improves policy assessment, with positive implications for equities, fiscal stability and investment outlook.

Anthropic PBC, one of the fastest-growing AI startups, faces a major setback after the Trump administration ordered federal agencies to stop using its software and the Pentagon labelled it a supply-chain risk.

Student protests continue on Iranian university campuses seven weeks after a government crackdown. Demonstrations have occurred at multiple universities, with students expressing anger and confusion. The government has warned students against crossing a ed line and threatened punishment. Many universities have moved classes online to prevent gatherings. Fears of further repression are rising amid these ongoing campus movements.

Anthropic said on Friday it will challenge in court the Pentagon's decision to declare the AI firm a supply-chain risk, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump also directed every federal agency to stop work with the company.

Paramount's David Ellison has successfully acquired Warner Bros. Discovery. Ellison's company outbid Netflix in a surprising turn of events. This massive deal creates one of the largest entertainment empires globally. Paramount and Warner Bros. announced their merger agreement. The transaction is valued at $110 billion. This marks a significant victory for Ellison in the competitive media landscape.

Fifteen people were killed and at least 30 injured after a Bolivian Air Force Hercules aircraft crashed in El Alto near the capital La Paz on Friday evening, according to television reports.

US President Donald Trump hints at a 'friendly takeover' of Cuba. He states the Cuban government is in 'big trouble' and talking with the US. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly handling the issue at a high level. Trump believes this change could be positive for Cubans wanting to return home. The Cuban government denies high-level talks.

Former President Bill Clinton appeared before Congress to discuss his association with Jeffrey Epstein. Clinton stated he observed no wrongdoing during their interactions. His testimony marks a significant congressional event. Democrats called for President Donald Trump to also testify. Republicans declined this request. Epstein died in jail in 2019.

Indian company boardrooms are now prioritizing artificial intelligence adoption. Leaders are discussing strategies to integrate AI for improved efficiency and a competitive advantage. This shift is evident across various sectors, including manufacturing and digital-native industries. Companies are seeking clear roadmaps for AI implementation and measurable business outcomes. Dedicated units are being established to drive this technological transition.

What does Warner Bros and Paramount $110 bn deal say and what did Bruce Campbell say at townhall? Warner Bros Discovery has signed a $110 billion agreement with Paramount Skydance after Netflix declined to match the offer. The deal includes debt, streaming plans, and regulatory review in California and the European Union.

Why has Atlanta Falcons fired LaTroy Lewis and has football coach made social media accounts private? The team dismissed the assistant coach after sexual assault allegations surfaced. The case involves claims from his Michigan tenure, a police investigation, and questions about social media activity.

Who is LaTroy Lewis and what does Atlanta Falcons statement say? The Atlanta Falcons fired assistant defensive line coach LaTroy Lewis after sexual assault allegations surfaced. The team issued a short statement. The case links to Michigan, Sherrone Moore, and an ongoing police investigation.

Elizabeth Taylor's life, marked by public scrutiny and personal scandals, offered profound insights into human relationships. Her quote, You find out who your real friends are when you're involved in a scandal, highlights how adversity tests loyalty, revealing true friends who stand by you during difficult times.

Ripple is decentralizing XRP Ledger development funding, empowering independent organizations and venture partners. This strategic shift aims to foster a more distributed ecosystem and address concerns about Ripple's influence. New initiatives and upcoming features like XRP staking and a lending market are expected to revitalize the platform's DeFi sector.

A long-lost portrait of Richard Carrington, the 19th-century British astronomer behind the largest recorded solar storm, has been discovered. Carrington documented the first observed solar flare in 1859, linking solar activity to geomagnetic disturbances on Earth. The photo, originally owned by his friend Charles Vincent Walker, confirms Carringtons image and has now been added to the RAS archives. This discovery connects the human story to the scientific legacy of space weather research.

The Traitors Season 5 renewal, release date, host, cast and how to watch update confirms the series will return. Peacock renewed the show for season five. Alan Cumming will host again. The release date is not announced. All seasons stream on Peacock.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, speaking at Srinagar's Jama Masjid, asserted that West Asian stability hinges on justice for Palestinians, warning that US military build-up signals a potential attack on Iran. He also expressed concern over the conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan during Ramzan, urging dialogue and adherence to the Prophet's teachings for peaceful resolution.

The Trinamool Congress has announced its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections. State minister Babul Supriyo, former Bengal DGP Rajeev Kumar, advocate Menaka Guruswamy, and actor Koel Mallick will represent the party. The Trinamool Congress expressed hope that these individuals will uphold the party's legacy and commitment to Indian rights and dignity.

Afghanistan and Pakistan are engaged in military clashes along their border. Both nations report inflicting significant damage on each other's positions. Afghanistan's government has stated a desire for dialogue to resolve the conflict. Iran has offered to mediate between the two neighboring countries. The situation remains tense as both sides claim casualties and territorial gains.

Bangladesh Army sees significant top-level reshuffles. New officers are appointed to key positions, including Quartermaster General. This follows recent meetings between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and the army chief. These changes come after a previous reshuffle less than ten days prior. The appointments signal a shift in the military's top brass.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera alleged the BJP's involvement in Arvind Kejriwal's acquittal in the Delhi excise case, calling it a predictable script ahead of elections. He claimed cases against Congress leaders would escalate while those against AAP and other 'convenient allies' would cool down, accusing the BJP of using agencies as electoral tools.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has described Arvind Kejriwal's discharge in the Delhi excise policy case as a technical matter. It will issue a structured response after a thorough review of the court's judgment. The BJP noted evidence destruction in the case, and said the investigation agency will determine its next steps on technical grounds.

Word of the day: Diaphanous means light, delicate, and almost transparent. It often describes sheer fabric, soft light, or thin mist. The word comes from Greek, meaning to show through. Pronunciation: die-AF-uh-nus. In 2026, the usage of diaphanous has expanded beyond poetry into technical fields like UI/UX design and architecture.

Modern satvikism within Hinduism risks fracturing the tradition by elevating purity and order as absolutes. While it prizes cleanliness, it can entrench social hierarchy and contribute to environmental harm as rituals shift to modern, polluting materials.

A special CBI court ruled that issues related to election funding fall within the Election Commission's domain. State police, the CBI, or the ED cannot investigate these matters in isolation. Criminal law cannot substitute for remedies under election law. Permitting probe agencies to intrude into electoral affairs risks criminalizing political competition. The ruling safeguards fair elections and upholds constitutional democracy.

Belgorod, which lies about 40 km (25 miles) from the border with Ukraine, has been a frequent target of Ukrainian drone and missile strikes in the four years since Russia invaded its neighbour. Along with the neighbouring Kursk region, parts of which were seized by Ukraine in a surprise attack in August 2024 and held for many months, Belgorod has borne the brunt of Ukrainian cross-border strikes since the start of the war.

After a 13-year hiatus, the iconic parody franchise returns with Scary Movie 6, bringing back fan-favorite stars Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Anna Faris, and Regina Hall. The film promises no holds barred comedy, combining satire with outrageous physical gags. Set to parody modern horror hits which includes Get Out, Nope, A Quiet Place, and Terrifier 3, the sequel delivers irreverent humor for fans of the series.

Arvind Kejriwal and Kavitha Kalvakuntla have been discharged in the Delhi excise policy case. Kejriwal hailed it as a moral victory and challenged Prime Minister Modi to hold elections in Delhi. Kalvakuntla said the verdict proved her innocence. Both leaders spoke of the personal suffering endured during the legal proceedings.

O Panneerselvam has joined the DMK, a significant shift in Tamil Nadu politics. This follows the DMDK's alliance with the DMK. The BJP, which sought to unite anti-DMK parties, now faces a changed scenario. Panneerselvam's move comes after his expulsion from AIADMK and previous interactions with the BJP. The BJP views his impact as limited.

Quote of the day by Barbra Streisand: Barbra Streisand's wisdom on doubt and confidence offers a fresh perspective. She believes doubt is not an enemy but a motivator, essential for balance. This insight helps individuals prepare better and question assumptions. Streisand, a legendary singer and actress, has a career spanning decades. Her impactful quotes continue to inspire many.

Political parties have proposed holding the Tamil Nadu assembly elections in a single phase. The Election Commission will soon announce its decision. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar expressed confidence in high voter turnout, especially among young voters. He anticipates Tamil Nadu will surpass Bihar's recent election performance. Candidates can file nominations online or physically.

A special CBI court cleared former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, and K Kavitha in the Delhi excise policy case, saying there was no prima facie evidence. The bench also criticized the agency for a predetermined trajectory and a fragile narrative. The CBI said it would appeal the decision immediately.

The Pentagon will continue its support for Scouting America. This decision follows the organization's commitment to end all diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Scouting America has agreed to remove DEI language from its programs and publications. A new military service merit badge will be introduced. Membership will be based on sex assigned at birth.

Assam's tea garden workers will see a 30 daily wage increase. This decision comes ahead of state assembly elections. Wages will now be 280 in Brahmaputra Valley and 258 in Barak Valley. This move aims to address a key election issue. The final daily wage is expected to exceed 300.