The Economic Times

Guwahati witnessed the launch of India's first AI-powered 'phygital' banking branch by Slice Small Finance Bank. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the facility, blending physical and digital services. This innovative branch offers AI-enabled self-service kiosks and paperless transactions. It aims to enhance financial inclusion by providing accessible credit and banking solutions to all segments of society, particularly underserved communities.

Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna has revealed his favourite Indian restaurant is Soam in South Mumbai. He lauded the eatery for its deep respect for Indian culinary traditions and authentic home-style cooking, highlighting its preservation of traditional techniques. Soam is celebrated for its Gujarati cuisine and Mumbai street food, offering comforting, homely flavours.

Actor-producer Ravi Mohan will not act until his divorce from Aarthi is finalized. He spoke out against online harassment. This comes after singer Keneeshaa announced her breakup with him. Keneeshaa stated she was leaving Chennai and her career due to cyberbullying. Ravi Mohan blamed trolls for Keneeshaa's departure. He also spoke about personal struggles and difficulties meeting his children.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is assessing all government departments. A White Paper will detail the state's financial status. Ministers are working with district administrations to combat drug trafficking and illegal mining. The government assures transparency and plans to fulfill all election promises. The monthly financial assistance scheme for women will be implemented after budget allocation.

The Nagaland State Lottery Sambad DEAR VISION Morning draw for May 16, 2026, has announced its winning numbers. A ticket holder secured the Rs 1 crore first prize with number 99L 02659. The lottery, known for its affordability and transparency, offers daily draws with various prize tiers.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced financial incentives for families having more children. The government will provide Rs 30,000 for a third child and Rs 40,000 for a fourth. This initiative aims to boost the state's declining population. Further details will be released soon. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of a stable population for economic growth.

A senior Hamas official told Reuters that the chief of the group's military wing, Izz al-Din al-Haddad, has died following Israeli airstrikes. Witnesses in Gaza reported mosque announcements of his martyrdom. Haddad was described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as an architect of the October 7th attacks.

V D Satheesan described the IUML as a vital 'brother party' for Kerala's secularism. He met IUML leaders, emphasizing their crucial role in the UDF's success. Satheesan highlighted the IUML's consistent secular stance, even during sensitive periods. He stated that the IUML's strength is essential for Kerala's stability. Discussions on portfolio sharing are complete, with announcements expected soon.

A woman alleged gangrape on a bus in Outer Delhi, claiming sexual assault by the driver and conductor. The accused, however, contend it was a monetary dispute, with police investigating the sequence of events. The victim's statement has been recorded, and the bus seized for forensic examination with the cops saying that the matter is under investigation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged stronger India-Netherlands ties in resilient supply chains and green hydrogen. He highlighted India's digital and tech progress. Modi spoke to the Indian diaspora in The Hague. Global challenges like pandemics and wars were noted. India is positioned as a key economic and tech partner. Discussions will focus on semiconductors, green hydrogen, and innovation.

The Karunya KR-754 lottery results are announced today at 3 PM. Ticket holders can check their numbers for a chance to win prizes. The top prize is a 1 crore jackpot. Other prizes include 25 lakh and 10 lakh. Smaller prizes are also available. Winners can claim their prizes from retailers or designated offices.

Walmart and Amazon are aggressively expanding online delivery services into rural America, a market previously overlooked due to logistical challenges and perceived lower profitability. Leveraging existing store networks and new micro-fulfillment hubs, both retail giants are investing heavily to capture this growing demographic, driven by changing rural economies and increased remote work.

Senior BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty praised Suvendu Adhikari as the ideal chief minister for West Bengal. Adhikari visited Chakraborty's residence for discussions. Chakraborty expressed confidence in Adhikari's ability to bring significant changes to the state. Adhikari sought Chakraborty's blessings before commencing his district tour. The visit is seen as politically significant ahead of upcoming elections.

Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, was a renowned American writer and humorist. He captured societal flaws and human nature through his stories and sharp remarks. Twain's works, including Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, transformed American fiction. He faced personal loss and bankruptcy but repaid debts through lectures. Twain died in 1910, remembered for his wit and moral insight.

Manoj Jarange, a Maratha quota activist, will begin an indefinite hunger strike on May 30. He has set a May 29 deadline for the Maharashtra government to issue Kunbi caste certificates in Marathwada. Jarange demands the dissolution of the Maratha quota sub-committee and a separate ministry for Maratha and Kunbi communities.

Quote of the day by Chris Pine highlights a message about growth and identity. The quote explains how mistakes shape people and help them learn. The life story and career of Chris Pine support this idea through his experiences in film, television, and theatre. This article explains the meaning of the quote, its relevance today, and life lessons connected to his journey and achievements in entertainment.

Indian Naval Ship Sunayna has docked in Colombo for a three-day visit. The ship is part of the Indian Ocean Ship - Security and Growth for All in the Region initiative. This deployment involves a multinational crew from 16 countries. The visit aims to foster cooperation and maritime security. The ship will be open to visitors.

Delhi is set to unveil a new city logistics plan aimed at boosting industrial investment. The national capital has achieved the highest 'Exemplary' ranking in the LEADS 2025 Index. This recognition highlights the government's efforts in improving logistics infrastructure and ease of doing business. The plan will be integrated into the upcoming Warehousing and Logistics Policy 2025.

US President Donald Trump revealed the Iran ceasefire was a favor to Pakistan, acting as mediator. He indicated international pressure also played a role. Trump dismissed needing favors from China's President Xi Jinping regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The US may conduct further action after the truce. Pakistan's mediation role faces scrutiny within the US administration.

The India Meteorological Department will soon update its heatwave warning criteria. Current parameters do not suit India's geography, causing issues in states like Kerala. This revision aims to improve the accuracy of heatwave declarations. New criteria will be finalized after consulting the Disaster Management Authority. This change comes as Kerala experiences unusually high temperatures and humidity.

A Mumbai family chose to celebrate their son Mohammed Zaid's 55 percent board exam score. Instead of pressure, they organized a surprise party. A custom cake designed like his marksheet was part of the joyous occasion. The heartwarming gesture emphasizes happiness over high marks. This unique celebration has resonated widely online.

India's Narcotics Control Bureau has achieved a significant breakthrough. Under 'Operation RAGEPILL', the agency seized the first-ever consignment of Captagon, a drug known as the 'Jihadi Drug'. The seizure is valued at Rs 182 crore. This operation targeted a consignment bound for the Middle East. A foreign national was also arrested.

The Israel-UAE alliance, typically discreet, was exposed by revelations of Iron Dome deployment and a secret Netanyahu visit, prompting a UAE denial. This highlights regional sensitivities to public ties with Israel, especially amid the Iran war and Gaza conflict, as Gulf states prefer to downplay such partnerships.

Shadaab Khan, son of late actor Amjad Khan, revealed he auditioned for a significant role in the successful film Dhurandhar. While he felt his audition went well for a role spanning both parts of the franchise, he was ultimately not cast. Khan understood the rejection, citing a mismatch in physical appearance and screen presence required for the character.

Dehradun and Mussoorie see a surge in vehicles despite calls for fuel conservation. Thousands entered Dehradun over a weekend. While officials promote 'No Vehicle Day', the highways tell a different story. Uttarakhand is pushing for electric vehicles and public transport. This comes as global events impact fuel supplies and India's economy.

A viral video sparked speculation that US President Donald Trump was caught snooping at Chinese President Xi Jinping's private notebook during a summit. However, full-length footage has revealed the folder actually belonged to Trump. The clip, taken out of context, showed Trump leaning towards a folder on the table. Later footage confirms it was Trump's own document.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China on May 19 to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and strategic cooperation with President Xi Jinping. The visit follows Donald Trump's trip to Beijing, where unresolved trade and geopolitical tensions, including the Ukraine conflict, were discussed without a breakthrough. China remains a key economic partner for Russia amid Western sanctions.

The Election Commission has ordered a probe into allegations of foreign nationals voting in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election. Police arrested ten foreign nationals attempting to fly out after noticing indelible ink on their fingers. These individuals, from Sri Lanka, the UK, and Canada, allegedly used fraudulent Indian ID documents. The Central Crime Branch is investigating these cases.

The Kerala SSLC 2026 revaluation, photocopy, and scrutiny application process has commenced following the Class 10 results declaration. Students dissatisfied with their marks can apply online for rechecking their answer sheets, excluding the IT paper. The board has outlined specific fees and procedures for these services, emphasizing headmaster verification for all applications.

Tata Trusts faces a directive from the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner to postpone its board meeting. This action was taken without prior notice or a hearing for the Sir Ratan Tata Trust. The directive stems from complaints questioning the composition of the Trust's Board of Trustees. Tata Trusts maintains that amended laws are prospective.

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that if it continues to harbor terrorists and operate against India, it must decide its future. His remarks came after the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.

A UN event celebrated the INSV Kaundinya's voyage from Porbandar to Muscat. This journey highlighted India's ancient maritime trade routes and centuries-old traditions of peaceful commerce. Speakers stressed cooperation at a time of global shipping route tensions. The voyage underscores the deep historical ties between India and Oman.

Angelina Jolie is an Oscar-winning actress who also champions humanitarian causes. Her life shows how stepping outside one's comfort zone leads to a broader understanding of the world. Jolie's extensive travels and work with refugees have shaped her into a globally recognized figure. Her legacy combines artistic success with advocacy for human rights and global equality.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah called for synchronized global laws and real-time intelligence to combat drug syndicates and narco-terrorism, aiming for a drug-free India by 2047. He stressed that fragmented international approaches empower drug cartels and urged standardized punishments and seamless extradition of kingpins to prevent irreversible damage from drug abuse and its funding of crime.

Rottnest shark attack: A 38-year-old man has died following a suspected shark attack near Rottnest Island, Western Australia. The incident occurred around 10 am on Saturday, May 16, when the man was believed to have been bitten by a shark at Horseshoe Reef. Despite receiving treatment at the scene, he could not be revived.

Pakistan is set to boost its defense budget by approximately PKR 100 billion. This move aligns with an International Monetary Fund program. Revenues are projected to rise significantly. The government will also focus on digitizing payments and tackling corruption. Reforms aim to create a level playing field for businesses. An IMF mission is in Pakistan to finalize budget proposals.

A disturbing case from Gujarat's Morbi district involves a man allegedly consenting to his wife and 13-year-old daughter being sexually assaulted by their landlord and his relative due to unpaid rent. The complaint, filed under BNS and POCSO, details repeated assaults at various locations. The husband and landlord have been arrested.

Senior NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil has slammed the Maharashtra government. He stated that funds are unavailable for distressed farmers. However, the government is proceeding with unnecessary projects. This is happening despite the state's significant debt. Farmers growing mango, cashew, and onions face unseasonal rain and low market prices. Their situation has become pitiable.

President Trump's aggressive approach to Iran is facing challenges. His tough talk and demands have not yielded the desired results. Analysts suggest this strategy may be hindering a quick resolution to the ongoing crisis. The situation impacts global energy supplies. Iran's leaders are reportedly unwilling to accept total defeat. The standoff continues, with domestic pressures on President Trump.

A Reddit post about a tense tipping experience at a NYC diner has gone viral after a customer claimed a waitress mocked their water order, vanished during service, and pushed preset tip options during payment. The story has reignited online debate around restaurant etiquette, rude service, and growing frustration with digital tipping culture.

The Board of Intermediate Education has released hall tickets for the Intermediate Public Advanced Supplementary Examinations, commencing May 21. Students can download their admit cards from bie.ap.gov.in by entering their roll or Aadhaar number. Candidates are urged to verify details and arrive at centres 30 minutes early.

Ankur Warikoo has announced the closure of his upskilling courses business, citing its lack of continued sense despite significant growth. The platform achieved 100 crores in sales and 25 crores in profits, educating 5 lakh students since its 2020 inception. Warikoo, a prominent entrepreneur and content creator, is known for his impactful work in education and personal development.

Residents across Canada's Maritime provinces are facing increased fuel costs ahead of the long weekend. Gasoline and diesel prices have risen in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick, impacting household budgets and daily commutes. For some, like a seafood vendor in New Brunswick, the hikes are significantly increasing operational expenses.