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The Economic Times

National / The Economic Times

No rising sun, no two leaves: 21 TN seats provide silent opportunity for Vijay's TVK and Seeman's NTK to emerge victorious

In a significant development for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, 21 constituencies will see contests without the traditional DMKs Rising Sun or AIADMKs Two Leaves symbols. With allies contesting under their own symbols, smaller players like TVK and NTK could capitalise on the fragmented field.

2 Apr 2026 4:45 pm
Raghav Chadhas replacement routine, party to decide Punjab role: Ashok Mittal

Ashok Mittal, AAP's new deputy leader in Rajya Sabha, calls Raghav Chadha's removal a normal party process. Mittal has no knowledge of Chadha joining the BJP. He assures Chadha will get speaking time in the Rajya Sabha. Mittal emphasizes AAP's democratic nature and states the party will decide Chadha's role in upcoming Punjab polls.

2 Apr 2026 4:31 pm
$20,000,000 scam at 30,000 feet: How Mount Everest guides made trekkers sick for hefty insurance gains

Nepal's tourism faces a $20 million insurance fraud crisis after trekking guides allegedly poisoned tourists to stage fake medical emergencies and force costly helicopter evacuations. Authorities have charged 32 individuals, exposing vulnerabilities in high-altitude rescue and insurance claim verification.

2 Apr 2026 3:56 pm
Assam polls 2026: Rahul Gandhi releases Congress manifesto; Focus on 11 sectors

Rahul Gandhi unveiled the Congress party's manifesto for the Assam Assembly elections. The document highlights 11 key sectors including governance, identity, and healthcare. This release follows the party's earlier announcement of five guarantees. Polling for the Assam Assembly is scheduled for April 9, with results expected on May 4.

2 Apr 2026 3:48 pm
Parties who made promises for last 70 years and never kept them: BJP Keralam President on UDF manifesto

Rajeev Chandrasekhar, BJP Keralam President, has dismissed the UDF manifesto. He stated that the BJP offers a clear vision for change in Keralam. The party aims to bring development similar to what Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved for India. Chandrasekhar emphasized that the BJP's manifesto provides a concrete roadmap with measurable outcomes for the state's progress.

2 Apr 2026 3:48 pm
Delhi shocker: Son robs father of Rs 10 lakh at gunpoint to teach him 'a lesson'. But one minute mistake turns the table

A 20-year-old man, along with an accomplice, robbed his father of Rs 10 lakh at gunpoint in Delhi's Mukherjee Nagar. Initially, the police thought the victim was cooking a story but when they scanned the CCTVs, one of the cameras captured his image when he lowered his mask to catch a breath. The son wanted to teach his father a lesson as he refused to give him the money.

2 Apr 2026 3:38 pm
HC convicts Amit Jogi in two-decade-old murder case, orders surrender

Amit Jogi, son of former Chhattisgarh CM Ajit Jogi, has been convicted in the 2003 murder of NCP leader Ramavatar Jaggi. The Chhattisgarh High Court overturned a previous acquittal. Jogi has been directed to surrender within three weeks. This verdict comes after a long legal battle spanning over two decades. The CBI had appealed the earlier acquittal.

2 Apr 2026 3:37 pm
'Pink Manifesto': Congress MP Jebi Mather says UDF to prioritise women's safety, interests in 2026 Keralam polls

The United Democratic Front has officially presented its election manifesto for Keralam, showcasing a strong commitment to women's rights and empowerment. This forward-thinking document promises free public transport for women and scholarships for girls, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. In addition, the UDF plans to combat cybercrimes and bolster healthcare specifically for women.

2 Apr 2026 3:34 pm
170 surrender in 31 days, almost realised goal of Naxal-free Bastar: IGP Sundarraj Pattilingam

A total of 170 Maoist cadres have returned to the mainstream in one month in Bastar Division, including the surrender of the senior Maoist cadre of Bastar Range, DKSZCM Paparao and several DVCM-level cadres, Inspector General of Police in Bastar Range, Sundarraj Pattilingam said.

2 Apr 2026 3:32 pm
Cybercrimes spike in Karnataka, CM Siddaramaiah pushes for tech-savvy policing

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has warned police about increasing cybercrimes and drug-related offences. He stressed the need for strong action and effective use of technology to combat these issues. The CM highlighted that while major crimes have decreased, these specific areas require more attention. He emphasized that police must be vigilant and accountable for preventing crimes within their jurisdiction.

2 Apr 2026 3:25 pm
India's GDP may come down to 6.5% in FY27, if crude remains at USD 100: CareEdge

Rising crude oil prices due to the West Asia conflict pose a threat to India's economy. Economic growth may slow, and inflation is projected to increase significantly. Several sectors face high impact from these price hikes and supply concerns. Domestic demand provides support, but elevated oil prices remain a key risk to overall growth.

2 Apr 2026 2:59 pm
Mizoram Police seize drugs worth over Rs 25 crore in multiple operations, several held

Mizoram police have made significant strides in their war against drugs, successfully executing several operations in the last few days. They seized impressive quantities of heroin and methamphetamine, with an estimated street value exceeding Rs 25 crore.

2 Apr 2026 2:57 pm
Is Rishabh Pant really an opening batter, asks Kevin Pietersen

Kevin Pietersen has raised concerns over Rishabh Pant's effectiveness in the top order, encouraging the young batsman to channel his energy into savoring the game instead of trying to climb the batting hierarchy prematurely.

2 Apr 2026 2:54 pm
Vidya Bharati a key reference point in shaping NEP 2020: Dharmendra Pradhan

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted Vidya Bharati's significant role in shaping India's National Education Policy 2020. He noted that many of Vidya Bharati's successful educational practices are now part of the national curriculum. These include bagless school days and mother tongue-based learning. The minister emphasised the policy's shift towards creativity and critical thinking, moving away from rote learning.

2 Apr 2026 2:53 pm
India's March palm oil imports fall to 3-month low as prices surge

March brought a sharp turn for India's edible oil import scene, with palm oil imports witnessing a striking 19% decrease, marking a three-month low. This shift is tied to the climbing global prices of tropical oils. Soyoil imports saw a minor dip as well, contrasting with the increased influx of sunflower oil.

2 Apr 2026 2:49 pm
Delhi parents get relief: Schools warned against forcing book & uniform purchases. Action if violated

Delhi government has directed private schools to stop forcing parents to buy books, uniforms, and other materials from specific vendors. Parents now have the freedom to choose any vendor, provided items meet specifications. This move aims to reduce financial pressure and ensure transparency in school purchases.

2 Apr 2026 2:47 pm
UPI growth stays relentless with 22.64 billion March transactions, says Department of Financial Services

Unified Payments Interface, or UPI, achieved 22.64 billion transactions in March 2026. This shows continued growth in digital payments across India. The total transaction value also increased significantly. UPI's daily transaction count and value saw a rise. Digital payments experienced strong year-on-year growth. India is transforming how it transacts.

2 Apr 2026 2:45 pm
Sunflower oil consumption set to wilt by 10% amid geopolitical heat, says Crisil

Indian refined sunflower oil demand is expected to fall about 10% in fiscal 2027 due to supply-chain disruptions from the Middle East conflict and higher prices, says Crisil. Consumers may switch to cheaper substitutes like rice bran and soybean oils, though overall revenues are likely to stay flat as higher prices offset the volume drop.

2 Apr 2026 2:40 pm
Indirect tax mop-up tops FY26 target, but pan masala cess misses the mark

India's indirect tax collections for fiscal year 2025-26 have surpassed the government's target. Customs, excise, and GST revenues showed strong performance. However, collections from a specific cess on pan masala manufacturing did not meet expectations. This shortfall is seen as temporary, with future collections anticipated to improve.

2 Apr 2026 2:39 pm
ISRO seeks minds to decode the Sun through Aditya L1 mission data

Exciting update from ISRO! Indian scientists are encouraged to submit proposals for access to valuable data from the Aditya-L1 solar mission. This is your second chance to dive into a treasure trove of over 27 TB of data that has already sparked scientific publications. Observations authorized during this cycle are scheduled between July and September.

2 Apr 2026 2:35 pm
ChatGPT available in Apple CarPlay after iOS 26.4 update; Check what are the features and how to access

OpenAI has integrated ChatGPT into Apple CarPlay, allowing users to access the AI chatbot directly from their vehicle's dashboard. According to a report by 9to5Mac, the feature is supported on devices running iOS 26.4 or newer and requires the latest version of the ChatGPT application.

2 Apr 2026 2:32 pm
HC grants last opportunity to Arvind Kejriwal on EDs expunction plea

The Delhi High Court has given a final chance to Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and others to reply to the Enforcement Directorate's request. The ED wants the court to remove critical remarks made by a trial court judge. These remarks were made when the judge discharged the individuals in the liquor policy case.

2 Apr 2026 2:31 pm
$90 million US F-15 fighter 'failed to intercept' Iran's $20,000 Shahed-136 drones: Video shows failed chase

F-15 fails to intercept Shahed drone: A US F-15 jet was seen attempting to intercept an Iranian drone over Iraq. This footage emerged as an oil facility in Erbil was reportedly hit by drone strikes. The incident has fueled speculation about a wider attack. Iran's ambassador to the UK mentioned assessing targets. The region remains tense with ongoing conflict and retaliatory actions.

2 Apr 2026 2:31 pm
Road ministry to compensate for price hike and volatility in commodity prices to contractors

Highway contractors will now receive payments monthly. The government has shortened the price adjustment period to one month. This aims to ease cash flow for developers facing rising costs of materials like bitumen and fuel. The measures are in place for three months to mitigate the impact of global events.

2 Apr 2026 2:28 pm
Jharkhand horror: Mother strangles teenage daughter on tantrik's advice; buries body in garden and claims rape

In a disturbing incident, a mother strangled her own daughter in Jharkhand on the advice of a tantrik as she wanted to cure her son of all ailments. The three accused in the case buried the body in a garden and misled the police by saying it was a case of rape. Police have arrested three people in the case and a further investigation is underway.

2 Apr 2026 2:06 pm
Health alert in NSW as Ross River virus activity detected in Greater Sydney ahead of Easter holiday travel surge

New South Wales health authorities are issuing a stern warning for the Easter long weekend. Recent mosquito surveillance in Greater Western Sydney has confirmed Ross River virus activity, heightening concerns as more people engage in outdoor activities. With mosquitoes remaining active due to warm, wet weather, residents are urged to take precautions against bites, especially during travel and holiday excursions.

2 Apr 2026 2:06 pm
Boom or bust? Analysts reveal what lies ahead for India Inc in FY27 amid Iran war

Indian businesses brace for 2026-27 with geopolitical tensions and AI reshaping industries. While core sectors show stability, policy shifts and costs pose challenges. Experts see opportunities for long-term growth. Banks anticipate margin recovery. FMCG expects better earnings. IT navigates AI disruption. Oil and gas faces price volatility. Pharma deals with supply chain issues. Navigating these dynamics will be key.

2 Apr 2026 2:04 pm
Mamata lashes out at EC over gheraoed judges, warns of BJPs alleged plot in Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has criticised the Election Commission. She stated the commission failed to protect judicial officers in Malda. Protesters had surrounded these officers. Banerjee also accused the EC of losing control over law and order in the state. She claimed the BJP aims to cancel polls and impose President's Rule.

2 Apr 2026 2:04 pm
Jain Premier League goes big: 12 teams auctioned for Rs 31 crore, plans to rope in Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Jonty Rhodes

The Jain Premier League has transformed into a high-value sporting platform, with its inaugural franchise auction generating Rs 31 crore. The league, backed by JITO, will feature over 40 matches across 12 cities, aiming for professional operations and attracting prominent cricket personalities.

2 Apr 2026 2:03 pm
Stalin avoids attacking Vijay in his own turf: Keeping post-poll alliance doors open or sign that TVK is not yet a threat?

DMK President Mr. M K Stalin launched a focused campaign in Trichy on Wednesday, characterizing AIADMK General Secretary Mr. Edappadi K Palaniswami as a complete Sanghi while maintaining a strategic silence regarding TVK President Mr. Vijay. Despite the TVK chief contesting from Trichy East and consistently targeting the DMK in his speeches, the Chief Minister opted to ignore the rhetoric, focusing instead on the AIADMKs past support for the CAA.

2 Apr 2026 2:03 pm
Government signals 'very important' bill soon as Rajya Sabha adjournment hints at fresh push on womens quota

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju indicated a significant bill will be introduced soon. The government plans to reconvene Parliament for this important legislation. Discussions are underway with opposition parties. This move could lead to increased Lok Sabha seats and operationalize women's reservation. The government is committed to fulfilling its promise on women's reservation.

2 Apr 2026 1:59 pm
Kerala Karunya Plus KN-617 lottery result out today, 02-04-2026; Check 1 crore first prize winner and complete list here

Karunya Plus KN-617 Lottery Result (02-04-2026): The Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Karunya Plus KN-617 weekly lottery today, April 2, 2026. The event will be held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring a grand first prize of 1 crore.

2 Apr 2026 1:55 pm
West Bengal Assembly elections 2026: BJP's Suvendu Adhikari files nomination for Bhabanipur seat

Suvendu Adhikari filed his nomination for West Bengal's Bhabanipur assembly constituency. Union Home Minister Amit Shah was present for the event. Adhikari also participated in a roadshow through Bhabanipur and surrounding areas. The BJP is highlighting this contest as a significant battle. Assembly polls are scheduled for April 23 and April 29. Vote counting will take place on May 4.

2 Apr 2026 1:51 pm
Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: TVK chief Vijay files nomination for Tiruchirapalli East

Vijay, TVK chief, filed his nomination for the Tiruchirappalli East constituency. He also filed papers from Perambur in Chennai. A massive roadshow preceded the nomination. Vijay assisted a rider after a minor accident. He faces a key contest against DMK and AIADMK candidates. Intensive campaigning is planned across the central district.

2 Apr 2026 1:47 pm
CAG flags Rs 3.69 lakh crore cess transfer shortfall; RJD MP demands accountability in Rajya Sabha

A Rajya Sabha member has highlighted a major issue with central government cess collections. A CAG report reveals a Rs 3.69 lakh crore shortfall in funds transferred to their intended purposes. These lapses date back to 1974. Significant amounts are missing from health, education, and investor protection funds.

2 Apr 2026 1:45 pm
How much oil should you consume daily? Famous liver expert & FSSAI share healthy limits

Liver specialist Dr Shiv Sarin advises limiting daily oil intake to no more than 20% of total calories, as excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) also highlights the importance of understanding the difference between visible and hidden fats, recommending moderation in both. Adopting healthier cooking methods and being mindful of oil usage can significantly improve diet and support long-term wellbeing.

2 Apr 2026 1:35 pm
Himanta 'most corrupt CM' in India; Modi, Shah, Sarma running 'land ATM' in Assam: Rahul Gandhi

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi labels Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as India's most corrupt CM. He alleges Sarma, along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, operates a land ATM in Assam. Gandhi also pledged justice for singer Zubeen Garg within 100 days of Congress forming government in the state.

2 Apr 2026 1:32 pm
National Clean Air Programme needs complete revamp to focus on reducing PM2.5 levels: Jairam Ramesh

Loni, Uttar Pradesh, has been identified as the world's most polluted city in 2025. This alarming report highlights severe PM2.5 levels, exceeding WHO guidelines by over twenty times. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh urges a complete overhaul of the National Clean Air Programme. He emphasizes the urgent need to address this public health crisis across India.

2 Apr 2026 1:29 pm
CBSE Class 10th Result Date 2026: Check when, how to download from cbse.gov.in, login details needed, alternate ways and more

CBSE 10th Result 2026 Date and Time: The CBSE is expected to announce the results of Class 10 in April-May with certain reports suggesting April 20. Students can download the results from official websites, cbse.gov.in or results.cbse.nic.in. Students can also use UMANG app, DigiLocker platforms to see their scorecards. They are advised to keep their roll number, date of birth and other login credentials ready.

2 Apr 2026 1:27 pm
PFC Independent Director Bhaskar Bhattacharya resigns, to contest Bengal polls

Bhaskar Bhattacharya, an independent director at Power Finance Corporation, has resigned. He plans to contest the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal. Bhattacharya stated his decision was to avoid any potential conflict of interest. He was appointed to the PFC board in May 2025. His resignation was effective April 1, 2026. He will be a candidate from the Serampore constituency.

2 Apr 2026 1:26 pm
AAP removes Raghav Chadha as Deputy Leader of Rajya Sabha: Report

The Aam Aadmi Party has made significant changes in the Rajya Sabha. MP Raghav Chadha will no longer get speaking time in Parliament. The party has formally communicated this to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat. MP Ashok Mittal will now serve as the new Deputy Leader of AAP in the Upper House.

2 Apr 2026 1:21 pm
PlayStation Plus monthly games April 2026: Sony reveals this month's line-up including Lords of the Fallen; Check the full list and availability here

PlayStation Plus April 2026 games: Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for April 2026, featuring Lords of the Fallen, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, and Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream. These titles will be available to all PlayStation Plus members starting Tuesday, April 7, until Monday, May 4.

2 Apr 2026 1:21 pm
Pakistan and Afghanistan hold talks in China to end 'worst conflict'

Pakistan and Afghanistan are meeting in Urumqi, China. Senior officials from both nations are engaged in discussions. China is hosting and mediating these crucial talks. The objective is to address the ongoing conflict between the two neighbours. This meeting aims to establish a foundation for comprehensive dialogue. It marks a significant step towards resolving tensions.

2 Apr 2026 1:17 pm
Amit Shah leads mega roadshow in Kolkata ahead of Bhabanipur nominations

Union Home Minister Amit Shah led a vibrant roadshow in Kolkata. The event supported BJP candidates, including Suvendu Adhikari for Bhabanipur. The rally featured music, colours, and saffron flags. Shah called for 'Parivartan', stating West Bengal desires change. The roadshow passed Mamata Banerjee's residence. The minister highlighted concerns about women's security, unemployment, and corruption in the state.

2 Apr 2026 1:00 pm
Who is Catherine Hansen? Wife of Canadas Jeremy Hansen, the first non-American astronaut sent on a moon mission

Four astronauts have launched on a historic mission around the moon. This marks humanity's first lunar voyage in over fifty years. Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen is part of this crew. His wife, Catherine Hansen, a doctor, supported his lifelong dream. The mission is a significant step for NASA's lunar ambitions.

2 Apr 2026 12:50 pm
NDA's betrayal includes 'strangling MSMEs' in West Asia crisis, alleges Stalin at poll rally

M K Stalin accused the NDA of betrayals during a rally, alleging that MSMEs were hit during the West Asia crisis and weavers were not protected from US tariffs. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam chief also criticised the NDA over issues such as NEET and the CAA, and attacked the AIADMK-BJP alliance.

2 Apr 2026 12:48 pm
Prepaid power meters not mandatory; defaulters may be shifted: Govt in Lok Sabha

The government has clarified that pre-paid electricity meters are not mandatory for consumers. Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar stated this in the Lok Sabha. The system offers flexible recharges for affordability. However, habitual defaulters may be required to adopt pre-paid meters to ensure revenue for uninterrupted power supply.

2 Apr 2026 12:47 pm
Iran War: Fertiliser, agri-input stress emerges; Kharif outlook hinges on policy, farmer choices

India relies heavily on fertiliser imports routed through the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently facing disruptions.

2 Apr 2026 12:37 pm