The Economic Times

Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has ordered officials to work urgently to create six crore 'Lakhpati Didis'. A plan is also being prepared to connect 10 crore women to financial inclusion programs. The minister stressed the importance of expanding bank linkages, credit access, insurance, and financial literacy for rural women.

French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India saw him connect with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sharing an AI-generated image on X. The leaders engaged in extensive bilateral discussions covering defense, education, clean energy, and aviation. Macron's presence also marked the inauguration of the Franco-Indian Center for Artificial Intelligence in Health, highlighting a focus on innovation.

Nicole Kidman is currently single after finalizing her divorce from Keith Urban in January. The Oscar-winning icon has reportedly gained the attention of multimillionaire businessman Paul Salem, who is romantically pursuing her. Sources state that the pair share mutual friends and have met twice in group settings, but have not spent time alone together.

An IT employee lost his job after being caught gambling at a casino during work hours. He had worked there for many years and has a family with three children. His wife is worried about money and his future job chances. Many people online said his gambling habit is the biggest problem and advised getting help first before searching for work.

The Enforcement Directorate has issued its largest attachment order, seizing 247 properties valued at over Rs 10,000 crore. This action is part of a money laundering investigation into the PACL group's alleged Rs 48,000 crore Ponzi scheme. The attached assets were acquired using investor funds.

The Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya Entrance Exam Result 2026 is now available. This result is for admissions to Class VI and lateral entry into Classes VII, VIII, and IX for the upcoming academic session. Students can check their scores online. The examination was conducted in January 2026. Results were published on February 18, 2026.

As Ramadan approaches, Muslims worldwide observe a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection to deepen their faith. Greetings like 'Ramadan Mubarak' (Blessed Ramadan) and 'Ramadan Kareem' (Generous Ramadan) are exchanged, signifying wishes for mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual growth. These heartfelt expressions strengthen community bonds and acknowledge the sacred month's significance.

Did You Know: An unusual yet scientifically accurate fact about one of the worlds most beloved fruits is drawing curiosity: bananas are mildly radioactive. Far from science fiction, this phenomenon is a natural result of the fruits chemical composition.

Two contractual employees were arrested for stealing AI wearable devices from the AI Impact Summit venue in New Delhi. The accused, Manish Nagar and Ashish Mahariya, were hired for videography. They allegedly mistook the devices for pen drives. The stolen AI wearables have been recovered. Police identified the accused using CCTV footage and technical surveillance.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa provided an update on electoral roll revision. He assured voters that no names will be deleted if notices are not received. The revision process is ongoing with increased officials. Applications for adding and deleting names are being processed. The Chief Electoral Officer clarified procedures and addressed concerns raised by political parties.

The Supreme Court has asked cricketer Mohammad Shami to respond to his estranged wife's request. She wants cases, including a domestic violence allegation, moved from West Bengal to Delhi. The court issued a notice to Shami. This follows a previous notice regarding maintenance for his wife and daughter. The high court had previously increased their interim maintenance payments.

Iran is actively rebuilding and hiding key sites after recent attacks. Satellite images reveal new construction and efforts to conceal facilities at Parchin and Isfahan. Tunnel entrances are being buried and fortified near Natanz. Missile bases also show signs of repair. These actions highlight Iran's response to international pressure and military actions.

IRS tax refund tips: New tax laws introduced over 100 changes, including expanded deductions and credits, potentially leaving many Americans with less money back. Experts advise taxpayers to be aware of these updates, as many new deductions don't require itemizing, and a higher SALT cap could benefit more people who choose to itemize.

Raita is the unsung hero of the Indian table, providing a cooling contrast to spicy curries and a creamy texture to dry biryanis. While the classic boondi or cucumber versions are staples, these six variations use seasonal ingredients and unique tempering to elevate your meal from ordinary to gourmet.

Galgotias University has apologized for confusion at the AI summit. A representative mistakenly presented a Chinese-made robotic dog as their own innovation. The university stated the representative was ill-informed and not authorized to speak to the press. Organizers asked the university to leave its stall. The government emphasized that exhibitors must showcase their own work.

CPI(M) MP John Brittas suggests the Congress leadership's ceasefire with Shashi Tharoor is temporary, driven by the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. Brittas believes Tharoor is needed for electoral reasons and this favour may not last post-elections, questioning genuine support for him within the party.

Tax refunds in the US are higher this year, giving extra money to many people. The IRS says millions are still waiting for payments, and more refunds will be sent soon. Many Americans are using this money for rent, food, and bills. Experts say filing online and using direct deposit helps people get their refund faster.

Target will pay over $1,700 to eligible individuals due to a class action lawsuit alleging failure to disclose salary ranges in Washington job postings. The settlement resolves claims that Target violated state law by not providing this information.

Ramadan 2026 in America is expected to begin on Wednesday, February 18, marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447 AH. Muslims across the United States will observe daily fasting from Sehri at dawn until Iftar at sunset. The fasting schedule gradually changes each day, with Sehri becoming earlier and Iftar later as the month advances. Ramadan ends around mid-March with communal prayers and celebration.

West Bengal's Rajya Sabha elections are set for March 16. The ruling TMC is expected to win four seats, while the BJP anticipates securing one. This outcome is largely determined by Assembly numbers. The polls occur as political parties prepare for upcoming state assembly elections. Candidate selection is being closely watched for political messaging.

Discover the healing power of Indian soups with this guide to six comforting bowls. From the protein-rich Dal Shorba to the zesty Tomato Saar and nutrient-dense Mutton Paya, these recipes provide a light, spice-infused alternative for dinner nights, focusing on gut health, immunity, and deep emotional comfort.

The Himachal Pradesh government will release Rs 1.10 crore in MLA Area Development Fund installments before March 31. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu announced this in the Assembly. The government will also consider the MLA discretionary fund. Future disbursements will be discussed with opposition leaders. Legislators are advised to prioritize capital works for state development.

Uber is investing more than $100 million into the creation of autonomous vehicle charging hubs. The investment will build DC fast charging stations at its autonomous depots and at pit stops across major cities.

Switzerland backs India's push to democratize artificial intelligence. Swiss President Guy Parmelin emphasized cross-border data flow for digital benefits. He also called for rules to protect national data sovereignty. Switzerland is keen to host the next AI summit. The nation is committed to building a trustworthy AI framework through international cooperation.

Quote of the day by Usain Bolt: Usain Bolt's famous quote, I don't think limits, encapsulates his mindset of self-belief and ambition that propelled him to worldwide fame. His career exemplifies how disregarding perceived boundaries can lead to extraordinary achievements. Bolt's philosophy emphasises mental strength, focus, and confidence as essential keys to breaking barriers and attaining greatness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Kazakhstan Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov. The leaders discussed strengthening their strategic partnership. This meeting occurred on the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Several world leaders also attended the summit. The event brought together global experts to discuss artificial intelligence. The summit aimed to advance international discussions on AI.

Sarvam AI, led by founders Pratyush Kumar and Vivek Raghavan, unveiled a groundbreaking suite of India-centric AI solutions at the 2026 Summit. Highlights include the Sarvam Kaze wearable glasses worn by PM Modi and the deployment of sovereign LLMs like Sarvam 105B, driving India's mission toward technological independence and mass democratization.

U.S. Stock Market: Broader AI-linked and megacap technology stocks had also lost ground as investors looked for stronger evidence the heavy investments in the technology were tangibly boosting revenue and profits.

UK police are probing whether Jeffrey Epstein utilised London airports as part of his trafficking operations. This development follows the information that had emerged about private flights into and out of Stansted Airport.

Addressing a press conference, Sivankutty said that under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, passing the Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (K-TET) is mandatory for teachers.

India and Canada are set to finalize terms for free trade agreement talks. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's upcoming visit to India is expected to see this agreement. Talks for a trade pact were paused by Canada in 2023. Both nations are now resuming negotiations to establish a mutually beneficial trade pact. Chief negotiators have been appointed from both sides.

Quote of the day by Stephen Hawking encapsulates a life devoted to understanding the cosmos. It reminds humanity that even in the face of limitation, the capacity to question, explore and imagine remains boundless.

Modi will also welcome the leaders of the various participating countries at the summit venue, Bharat Mandapam, this evening, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said in an official statement on Wednesday.

The Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board has announced the MP Police Sub-Inspector and Subedar Result 2026. This recruitment drive fills 500 vacancies. Candidates who took the written exam from January 16 to January 21, 2026, can now check their scores online. Qualified candidates will advance to physical tests, document verification, and a personality test.

As Assam gears up for the 2026 assembly polling season, the Election Commission is prioritizing voter engagement and accessibility. In a recent oversight, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar highlighted the preparedness and shared exciting new developments designed for the electorate. For the first time, candidate portraits will be displayed on the EVMs to facilitate easy identification.

India has rolled out a series of transport link services in the Maldives to enhance connectivity. India has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Maldives in establishing essential public services and projects that directly benefit communities.

Marcus Aurelius, the last famous Stoic philosopher of antiquity, through his quote, says that true happiness does not depend on external things but on one's mindset. When you control your thoughts and perspective, you realize that very little is needed to live a peaceful and happy life. This quote can also be applied in marriages and relationships. It tries to convey a message that when you manage your mindset, your marriage becomes calmer, stronger, and happier. This is because a strong relatio

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar reported a significant achievement in Assams electoral roll revision, successfully registering eligible voters and filtering out the ineligible. This timely Special Revision is crucial as we approach the final stages of the NRC. Additionally, the assembly election dates are planned to coincide with the vibrant Bihu festival, aiming to enhance voter turnout.

India secured a Super Eight berth in the T20 World Cup with a decisive win over Pakistan, marking their third consecutive victory. They will now compete in Group 1 against West Indies, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, commencing their Super Eight campaign against South Africa on February 22.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the CMAT 2026 results on its official website, cmat.nta.nic.in. Over 41,000 candidates appeared for the exam, and successful students can now use their scores for MBA and PGDM admissions across India. The results reflect marks and percentile based on a transparent answer key process.

In a softly lit corner of Shanghai, a new kind of nightlife is brewing, one that trades neon shots for apothecary drawers and tequila hangovers for herbal healing. Bars like Niang Qing have abandoned standard menus in favor of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diagnoses, where a resident practitioner in a white coat checks a customers pulse before a mixologist crafts a bespoke herbal cocktail.

Panic spread across two court complexes in Telangana on Wednesday. Bomb threats were received via email at the CBI court in Hyderabad and the district court in Karimnagar. Security teams conducted thorough searches at both locations. No explosive devices were found. Officials declared both threats to be hoaxes. Investigations are ongoing to find the senders of the emails.

West Bengal elections: Shah said he had seen ISKCON's influence across India during his travels as BJP president and Union minister, noting that the Bhagavad Gita published by the organisation was accessible to people across age groups and professions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined forces with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to enhance collaboration across trade, investment, artificial intelligence, and more. Their dialogue also touched on pressing global matters, setting the stage for a deeper strategic and economic partnership between India and Serbia.