The Economic Times

A US naval blockade on Iran has turned the Strait of Hormuz into a global flashpoint, significantly impacting China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil. While China officially urges restraint, its commercial actors are subtly testing the blockade's limits, creating a complex dynamic as the US aims to reshape global energy flows.

Quote of the Day by Thomas Jefferson: Never spend your money before you have earned it is one of the most popular and widely used quotes attributed to Thomas Jefferson, an American diplomat. The quote advises people that they should spend only what they have already earned and avoid relying on future income. The quote teaches financial discipline, helping people to stay out of debt and manage money wisely.

A neighborhood dispute erupted after a pet cat's kittens became the subject of a fierce ownership battle between two families. The conflict escalated with alleged threats and the disappearance of the kittens, prompting police intervention. Cops proposed a divided custody solution for the missing furballs.

A former sports journalist, facing declining pay and rising stress in the newspaper industry, transitioned to the US Postal Service. After years of financial struggle, his new career offers significantly higher income, exceeding $85,000 annually, and improved job security. The physically demanding role has also led to better health and a more satisfying work-life balance.

President Xi Jinping of China has urged respect for the sovereignty and security of West Asian and Gulf nations. He called for a sustainable security framework and adherence to international law. This comes as the UAE Crown Prince visits China amid regional conflicts. China advocates for an end to hostilities and unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Why are oil and gas prices down today, and will Brent crude and US WTI crude futures continue to drop or rise again soon? Oil and gas markets moved lower after signals of possible US-Iran talks eased supply fears linked to the Strait of Hormuz blockade. Brent and WTI dropped after sharp gains. Analysts warn that lost oil supply, lower inventories, and uncertain negotiations may still push prices higher again soon.

China has defended its decision to publish new names for regions in Arunachal Pradesh. India has rejected these 'fictitious names' stating they cannot alter the reality of Indian territory. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as its own. Both nations are engaged in a diplomatic exchange over territorial claims. China states its policy to improve relations remains unchanged.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a rally in Gangarampur, West Bengal. He assured a constitutional solution for the Gorkha issue without dividing the state. Shah stated the BJP will not permit a mosque construction similar to Babri Masjid. He also promised to end political violence, syndicate raj, and infiltrators.

The Trinamool Congress has demanded the immediate release of Vinesh Chandel, a co-founder of I-PAC. Chandel was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money-laundering case. The party described the arrest, just days before the West Bengal elections, as electoral sabotage.

Bihar's longest-serving Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, has stepped down after a decades-long political career. He formally submitted his resignation to Governor Syed Ata Hasnain, marking the end of an era in the state's politics. The decision followed a final cabinet meeting where the dissolution of the council of ministers was announced.

Sthree Shakthi SS-515 Lottery Result (14-04-2026): The Kerala State Lotteries Department is conducting the much-awaited draw for the Sthree Shakthi weekly lottery today, April 14, 2026. The draw takes place at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram and features an attractive first prize of 1 crore.

The Avatar: The Last Airbender universe remains one of the most beloved animated franchises globally. With original creators involved in the expansion plans, expectations for the new movie are exceptionally high.

Four men and a company face charges for allegedly stealing hundreds of crocodile eggs from Kakadu National Park in February 2024. The operation involved a helicopter and is considered serious offending, impacting Traditional Owners, noting the cultural harm they experienced. A five-day hearing is scheduled for November, with 10 witnesses expected.

The ministry of road transport and highways, Tuesday, notified the National Highways Fee Rules for fee collection from overloaded vehicles on National Highways beyond the permissible Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), the move aimed at promoting compliance with prescribed load limits and enhancing road safety while protecting highway infrastructure.

Rosatom State Corporation, through its unit ETC GET, has partnered with IIT Bombay and ProSIM R&D Pvt Ltd to launch a pilot training programme for nuclear specialists in India. The April 1517 session will focus on simulator and digital twin technologies to build practical operational skills, addressing a growing gap in trained manpower as India ramps up nuclear capacity. The initiative combines industry and academic expertise and is part of Rosatoms broader collaboration with India, including pr

Why are gold and silver prices up, and will precious metals continue to rise or fall again shortly? Gold prices increased after the dollar weakened and oil prices dropped. Peace talk expectations between the United States and Iran also affected markets. Investors tracked inflation, interest rate expectations, and geopolitical risks. Silver and other metals also gained. Analysts now expect short-term price swings while traders assess global developments and central bank policy outlook.

Noida's factory workers erupted in violent protests, demanding higher minimum wages after learning of significant pay hikes in Gurgaon. This wage disparity, exacerbated by Haryana's nearly 35% increase, fueled widespread unrest, leading to torching of vehicles and stone-pelting. Over 300 arrests were made as authorities investigate potential organized mobilization.

Elevate your nutrition with six tasty foods that combine high protein and high fiber for maximum health. From black beans and lentils to edamame and chia seeds, these dual-nutrient powerhouses are essential for 2026, helping you build muscle, improve digestion, and stay full longer with every delicious bite.

ICSE Result 2026 Date: The results of ICSE Class 10 are likely to be announced by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations in mid or last week of April. Once out, students can check the results on cisce.org and results.cisce.org. The official confirmation regarding the exact date and time is awaited.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said what unfolded on the streets was the final cry of this nation's workers and said the burden of US tariff wars, global inflation and fractured supply chains has not fallen upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi's industrialist friends but squarely upon the daily-wage labourer.

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee alleged logical discrepancy in the SIR exercise was selectively applied in West Bengal to favor the BJP, unlike in Bihar. She criticized the BJP as a dirty party and urged voters to reject them, claiming the party manipulates rally attendance by bringing in supporters from other states.

According to the IEA, Russias crude oil exports rose by 270,000 barrels per day (bpd) month-on-month to 4.6 million bpd in March.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the BJP and RSS of spreading hate and damaging the Constitution. He also alleged vote theft by the BJP. Gandhi stated that the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal has not fulfilled its job promises. He highlighted that 84 lakh youths have applied for unemployment allowance in the state.

A total of 2,926 candidates are now set to contest the West Bengal assembly elections. This number was finalized after the nomination withdrawal deadline passed. The Election Commission has confirmed the final list. Voters can access candidate details via the ECINet app. Ballot units will feature candidate photographs for easier identification. Polling is scheduled for April 23 and April 29.

UP Board Results 2026 Date and Time: UP Board class 10 and 12 results 2026 are expected in mid to late April, 2026. Students can check their UPMSP results on official websites like upmsp.edu.in and upresults.nic.in by using their roll number and school code. They can also check their results through DigiLocker and UMANG app.

A US-led naval blockade on Iran has sharply escalated tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global oil flows, trade routes and geopolitical stability. Oil prices have surged past $100 as shipping risks, insurance costs and supply disruptions ripple across markets. While enforcement remains complex and legally contested, the bigger risk lies in escalation and second-order effectsespecially for importers like India, which could face higher crude prices and tighter supply as global dema

Stay cool in 2026 by identifying the six worst vegetables for summer. This story explains why heating ingredients like ginger, chilies, and heavy root vegetables like Arbi can disrupt your internal temperature and digestion, offering a roadmap to a lighter, more hydrated, and thermally balanced summer diet.

Indian startups are offering house help for as little as $1 an hour, attracting thousands of women seeking employment and consumers eager for affordable services. While the market is booming, concerns about worker safety, particularly for women, remain a significant challenge that companies are actively addressing through training and safety features.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has recommended the dissolution of his cabinet. He will submit his resignation to the Governor later today. This move paves the way for the first-ever BJP-led government in Bihar. The BJP, the largest party in the assembly, will elect its leader this afternoon. This marks a significant political shift in the state.

The Ministry of Railways has announced the tentative schedule for the RRB NTPC CBT-1 exam, with multiple phases planned for May and June nationwide. Candidates can check their exam city and date 10 days prior, with e-call letters issued four days before. Aadhaar verification is mandatory, and candidates are warned against fraudulent job offers.

Juhi Bhatt, podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia's girlfriend, was spotted with him at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Ranveer Allahbadia aka Beerbiceps confirmed his relationship with Juhi Bhatt when a fan went to him asking for a selfie. Juhi Bhatt is a Mumbai-based content creator who has appeared in web series and also in many episodes of FilterCopy.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has unveiled its manifesto for the Tamil Nadu assembly polls. The party is focusing on women voters with promises of financial assistance. Key announcements include monthly pensions for women heads of households and fishermen. The manifesto also outlines plans for job creation for youth and improvements to the state's rail network.

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien accused the Centre of mocking Parliament over the women's reservation and delimitation bills. He stated that lawmakers have not yet received the draft legislation, despite Parliament convening soon. The Union Cabinet has cleared draft bills to reserve 273 seats for women in the Lok Sabha and increase its strength to 816.

Protests persist in Noida's Hosiery Complex. Workers demand higher minimum wages. Violence erupted Monday with stone pelting and torched vehicles. Over 300 arrests were made. Police conduct route marches. A government committee meets stakeholders to find a resolution.

Quote of the day by Queen Elizabeth I: Queen Elizabeth I stands as one of historys most remarkable rulers, guiding England through political unrest and cultural transformation. Rising from a troubled childhood to the throne in 1558, she shaped a powerful and stable nation. Her reign marked a turning point, blending strong leadership, strategic diplomacy, and a flourishing of arts and exploration.

The Congress leaders' remarks come a day after Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi asserted that the real issue with the government's move to bring bills in a special sitting of Parliament is delimitation, not women's reservation.

In a video from iconic singer Asha Bhosle's funeral, Mohammed Siraj was seen consoling and comforting Zanai Bhosle. Mohammed Siraj visited singer Asha Bhosle's home to offer condolences to her granddaughter Zanai. The two share a very close and amicable bond of siblings. Zanai Bhosle even tied rakhi to Siraj last year.

Kongsberg Maritime has secured its largest waterjet order to date, supplying 18 advanced Kamewa systems for the Indian Navy's next-generation missile vessel program. This collaboration with Cochin Shipyard Ltd will equip six high-speed stealth corvettes with enhanced anti-surface warfare and sea denial capabilities, marking a significant advancement in naval technology.

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, visited Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. This marked their first stop during their Australia tour. The former royals interacted with young patients and their families. The visit is privately funded. This is their first trip to Australia since 2018.

TCS Nashik Issue: A month-long undercover police operation inside a TCS BPO unit in Nashik has led to nine FIRs and the arrest of seven employees, including a senior HR official, on charges of sexual harassment, coercion, and hurting religious sentiments. TCS has suspended the accused and promised strict action.

Sony is developing an R-rated animated adaptation of the acclaimed video game Bloodborne, aiming to stay true to its dark and violent essence. This ambitious project, part of Sony's growing slate of game adaptations, will be co-financed by Lyrical Media and co-produced by PlayStation Productions and Lyrical Animation. Details on the plot and release date remain undisclosed.

Mark Carneys Liberals secured a House of Commons majority after byelection wins in UniversityRosedale and Scarborough Southwest, while Terrebonne remains too close to call. Victories by Danielle Martin and Doly Begum pushed the party past 172 seats, shifting Parliament from minority to majority rule and reshaping legislative control in Ottawa.

Karnataka SSLC Exam 2 Result 2026 Date Time: The results of Karnataka SSLC Exam 2 results might be released in June, according to reports. Students can check KSEAB results on the official website kseab.karnataka.gov.in and karresults.nic.in. Students who fail to meet these minimum marks will have the opportunity to appear for the KSEAB SSLC Supplementary Exams.

Explore five innovative Sabudana recipes that prove this ancient ingredient is for more than just fasting. From savory Thalipeeth to nutrient-dense salads and steamed idlis, these light and filling meals offer a gluten-free, energy-boosting solution for modern 2026 diets, focusing on digestion and long-lasting satiety.

A man faces 65 lakh debt after repeatedly bailing out his parents' failing businesses. Despite a good income, his finances are strained. He is now considering selling his flat to clear the debt. This situation highlights the difficult balance between familial duty and personal financial well-being. He seeks a path forward that ensures his own stability.