The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
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.
Antonio Costa's Goa connection: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with European leaders in New Delhi. He called European Council President Antonio Costa the 'Gandhi of Lisbon'. This highlighted Costa's Indian roots from Goa. India and the European Union finalized a free trade agreement. Strategic cooperation was also discussed. Costa's family has deep ties to Margao, Goa. His father was a writer.
Himachal Pradesh's higher reaches are bracing for heavy snowfall and rain, with an orange warning issued for Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Lahaul and Spiti districts. Light snowfall has already been recorded in several areas, with Gondla village in Lahaul and Spiti receiving the highest accumulation of 22 cm. Tabo village recorded the state's lowest temperature at minus 8.9 degrees Celsius.
India and the EU have finalized a significant trade deal, signaling India's growing influence in global economics and its emergence as a stable partner. This agreement, alongside other recent pacts, positions India as a key player in a shifting global trade order, especially as US trade policy under Trump becomes increasingly unpredictable and isolating.
India and the European Union have finalized negotiations for a free trade agreement. This pact aims to boost India's exports and reduce reliance on China. Tariffs will be lowered or eliminated, benefiting sectors like technology, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. Bilateral trade in goods reached over 136 billion dollars in 2024-25. This agreement marks a significant step in economic cooperation.
Richardson, 34, had joined the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL) on a one-year deal but could only manage two appearances for the team. A BBL original, he played for Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Renegades, winning the championship with the latter in 2018-19. Richardson is the fifth-highest wicket-taker in BBL history with 142 wickets.
India and the European Union have signed a significant Free Trade Agreement. This pact aims to boost trade between the two economic giants. It will improve market access and strengthen supply chains. Cooperation will expand across manufacturing, services, clean energy, technology, and critical minerals. The agreement supports India's manufacturing goals and helps the EU diversify its supply chains.
India and the European Union have signed a significant trade agreement. This deal will substantially reduce tariffs and open markets for both sides. Indian exporters will gain near-zero duty access to the EU for most goods over seven years. This pact offers Indian businesses long-term certainty and access to a vast consumer market.
A devastating fire engulfed a dry food warehouse in Kolkata's Nazirabad area. At least eight people have died, with many still unaccounted for. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours in challenging conditions due to the narrow access. An inquiry has been ordered, and the absence of fire-fighting devices is being investigated.
The Supreme Court has postponed a hearing on a law regulating school fees in Delhi. The next hearing is scheduled for February 2. This law aims to bring transparency to fee fixation and prohibits capitation fees. The court had previously questioned the timing of the law's enforcement. Private schools had challenged the Act and its rules.
India and the European Union have signed a major free trade agreement. This deal marks a historic occasion for both democratic powers. It will significantly boost trade by reducing tariffs on most goods over several years. The agreement also aims to foster cooperation in manufacturing and technology. This breakthrough is expected to strengthen India-EU relations on the global stage.
A new EU-India free trade agreement will bring cheaper European goods to India. Expect lower prices on wine, spirits, beer, and olive oil. Many processed foods like chocolates and breads will also become more affordable. Import duties on cars and pharmaceuticals are set for significant reductions. This deal expands consumer choices and eases prices for Indian shoppers.
A new EU-India free trade agreement will bring cheaper European goods to India. Expect lower prices on wine, spirits, beer, and olive oil. Many processed foods like chocolates and breads will also become more affordable. Import duties on cars and pharmaceuticals are set for significant reductions. This deal expands consumer choices and eases prices for Indian shoppers.
Apple has launched an upgraded AirTag with improved range and sound. For Android users, several tracking alternatives exist. Each offers different features and price points for locating lost items.
The mass killings of stray dogs continue in Telangana after 200 more canines were allegedly poisoned to death in Hanumakonda district. At least 1,000 stray dogs have been killed in a month in Telangana, and cases have been reported from Kamareddy, Jagtial, Hanumakond,a and Ranga Reddy districts. Animal welfare activists claimed that these deaths have been carried out by elected representatives, including Sarpanchs, to fulfill the promise to curb stray dog menace ahead of the gram panchayat elect
The Supreme Court has paused a Gujarat High Court order to return 108 hectares of land to villagers from Adani Ports. The apex court noted Adani was not heard before the High Court's directive. The state government will now consider Adani's objections. The High Court will re-examine the case. Parties must maintain the status quo on the land.
Australian shares closed higher on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, with the S&P/ASX 200 reaching a new 50-day high. Broad-based gains, led by mining and gold stocks, pushed the market up as participants awaited a key inflation report for interest rate clues. Telix Pharmaceuticals and Capstone Copper Corp. were top performers.
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.
AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami announced a Rs 10 lakh relief for bull tamers who die during Jallikattu. He also promised insurance for registered tamers and bulls. This pledge was made during the inauguration of a Jallikattu event in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu.
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.

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