The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
India's net session ahead of their T20 World Cup game against the Netherlands focused on spin. Abhishek Sharma displayed powerful hitting for over an hour. Rinku Singh also bowled off-spin with a round arm action. Other players like Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan also practiced. The team prepared for their upcoming match.
Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar has formally complained about large-scale voter deletions in Greater Bangalore Area. He has urged the state election commission to conduct a comprehensive audit of these deletions. Shivakumar seeks the restoration of all eligible voters who were wrongly removed. He also wants to ensure families are not split across different polling booths.
Iran and the United States have agreed on guiding principles for nuclear talks. This understanding was reached during indirect discussions in Geneva. While progress has been made, a final deal is not expected soon. Both sides will now move forward based on these principles.
A South Goa consumer court has issued a bailable warrant for Ola Electric CEO Bhavish Aggarwal. He failed to appear for a hearing regarding a customer's faulty scooter. The court ordered Bengaluru police to arrest him and produce him on February 23. The case involves a customer seeking a refund and compensation for a scooter with motor and touchscreen issues.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited newly appointed Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, along with his wife and daughter, to visit India. Modi congratulated Rahman on his party's election victory, emphasizing the deep-rooted friendship and shared aspirations between the two nations. He expressed eagerness to strengthen bilateral ties and regional cooperation.
Tamil Nadu's Agriculture Department receives Rs 47,248 crore in the Interim Budget for 2026-27. Farmer welfare schemes will continue. The government aims to modernize agriculture, boost farmer income, and ensure food security. A new Agroforestry Policy will be introduced to encourage cultivation of high-value trees. This policy will ease rules for felling and transporting trees.
Ramadan 2026: During the holy month, Muslims will observe a daily fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink and other physical needs from the time of the Fajr prayer until Maghrib.
Twenty-two Naxalites surrendered in Sukma, Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. They joined the government's 'Poona Margem' rehabilitation scheme. Police and CRPF officials facilitated the surrenders. The Maoist influence is declining due to ongoing operations and development projects. Surrendered cadres received financial assistance and will be rehabilitated. Over 1,500 Naxalites surrendered in the state in 2025.
Ancient humans did not sleep continuously. They commonly slept in two shifts each night, separated by a period of wakefulness. This practice changed over the last two centuries. Artificial lighting and industrial schedules led to the modern habit of sleeping for eight uninterrupted hours.
Iran conducted live fire military drills in the Strait of Hormuz, temporarily closing the vital waterway. This show of force coincided with indirect talks in Geneva between Iran and the United States concerning Iran's nuclear program. The drills involved missile firings, with Iran citing safety concerns. The U.S. has increased its military presence in the region.
Businessman Madhav Gopal Agrawal has shared his account of a financial dispute with actor Rajpal Yadav. Agrawal lent Rs 5 crore in 2012 for Yadav's film Ata Pata Laapata. The loan was reportedly given with a personal guarantee. Repayment deadlines were missed, leading to multiple agreements and dishonoured cheques. A settlement of Rs 10.40 crore was later agreed upon.
IRS tax return mailing deadline: Taxpayers filing by April 15 face new risks with United States Postal Service postmark changes. Effective December 24, 2025, postmarks may not reflect the actual drop-off date. This impacts the IRS mailbox rule, which uses the postmark for timely filing. Mailing on April 15 could result in a later postmark date. Early mailing or manual postmarks are recommended.
A veteran employee, Jennifer Schroeder, went viral after revealing she was passed over for a promotion in favor of a 25-year-old colleague and then asked to train her. In a TikTok video, Schroeder cited, I watched a 25-year-old get my promotion, and then they asked me to train her. Heres what I said No.
Worm Moon 2026: This years Full Moon carries added significance as it aligns with a total lunar eclipse, commonly known as a Blood Moon. Astronomically, the March 2026 Full Moon will shine in the constellation Leo, close to the brilliant star Regulus, often dubbed the Little King.
Jesse Jackson was a famous civil rights leader who inspired people to believe in their dreams. His quote says dreams should never be limited by anyone, not even governments or laws. He spent his life fighting for equality, jobs, education, and rights for poor and Black communities, and his work inspired many modern political leaders.
India and France have elevated their relationship to a 'Special Global Strategic Partnership'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron discussed defence, clean energy, and innovation. Key outcomes include an annual Foreign Ministers Dialogue and a Year of Innovation. The partnership aims to boost cooperation in critical sectors and strengthen bilateral trade.
Quote of the day: Todays statement by Aristotle invites reflection on how individuals respond to adversity, whether through despair, denial or dignified resolve.
Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and France's Safran have formed a joint venture to locally produce HAMMER precision-guided munitions in India. This partnership, announced following talks between Prime Ministers Modi and Macron, aims to bolster India's domestic defense manufacturing and reduce import dependence for advanced weapons. The joint venture will establish a Center of Excellence with equal equity for both companies.
After a 150-year absence, the luxury steamer Lac La Belle has been discovered in Lake Michigan. Veteran explorer Paul Ehorn and his team located the remarkably intact wreck, ending a decades-long hunt. The ship's dramatic history includes sinking, recovery, and a second, fatal voyage in 1872.
Scientists have isolated a Psychrobacter SC65A.3, a bacterial strain frozen for almost 5,000 years in Romanias Scrioara Ice Cave. The microbe carries more than 100 antibiotic resistance genes and resists many modern drugs, yet it also inhibits dangerous superbugs, disclosing its dual potential. Genome sequencing identified enzymes with biotechnological and antimicrobial applications, as well as hundreds of genes with unknown functions.
Michael Jordan Daytona 500 viral video: Michael Jordan's Daytona 500 victory celebration took an unexpected turn as a video of him interacting with driver Tyler Reddick's son, Beau, went viral. While some viewers questioned Jordan's actions, interpreting them as inappropriate, others defended him, citing the chaotic environment and suggesting a playful gesture.
Warner Bros. Discovery merger deal: Paramount's current offer for the whole company comes to $108.4 billion, while Netflix is offering $82.7 billion just for its studio and streaming businesses.
Many tax relief companies say they can save your money on IRS tax debt, but some are scams. Real companies help with payment plans, paperwork, and talking to the IRS. People should watch for warning signs like big promises, high fees, and pressure to sign fast. Always check reviews, licenses, and contracts before choosing any tax relief service.
Cryptocurrency prices, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Dogecoin, are down today. Weak derivatives, reduced retail interest, and key technical levels influence market movements. BTC, ETH, XRP, and DOGE face critical support zones. Traders watch $60K-62K for Bitcoin and $0.10 for Dogecoin while awaiting potential catalysts this week.
West Bengal's Yuva Sathi scheme is seeing thousands of educated unemployed youth register for a monthly allowance. The initiative, rolled out ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, has sparked debate. Supporters see it as a safety net, while critics call it an election-time dole. The government highlights public trust, while the opposition points to an employment crisis.
The case was filed in 2023, when BJP was in power in Karnataka, following a corruption rate card published by the then opposition Congress to claim large scale irregularities prevailing in the state under the saffron party's rule.
Gold rate prediction: Gold investors are looking into multiple factors which will drive gold price in near-term.
Assam's interim budget of Rs 62,294.78 crore was tabled ahead of assembly polls. The state's fiscal performance has improved, leading to increased central devolution. Significant progress in peace accords with militant groups and a special rehabilitation package for ULFA were highlighted. The government also emphasized job creation, infrastructure development, and enhanced air connectivity.
Paramount informally broached an even higher share price, $31 a share, Warner Bros said, apparently enticing the board to the table.
Many Americans may get very big tax refunds in 2026 because of new tax rules and higher deductions. Experts say this extra money could make people spend more, which may slowly increase prices. However, some officials believe inflation risk may stay low because supply of goods is improving and the economy is more stable now.
Gujarat's legislative assembly has passed a new bill. This amendment allows for longer daily working hours. Women can now work night shifts in shops and commercial establishments. The bill ensures safety and dignity for women workers. Employers must provide transportation and other facilities. Overtime limits have also been increased. The government aims to balance business ease with worker protection.
Silver price prediction 2026: Silver saw a massive surge in 2025 driven by uncertainty and China's export curbs. This pushed prices to $120 before a sharp pullback to $77. While some eye $200 in 2026, historical volatility and industrial demand suggest a complex outlook. China's trade talks with the US also add another layer of influence.
When evening hunger strikes, most people reach for chips or biscuits, leading to a late-night energy crash. Switching to high-protein snacks stabilizes your blood sugar and keeps you full until dinner. Here is the story of seven high-protein snacks to fuel your 2026 health goals.
Rushed mornings don't have to mean poor nutrition. This story highlights six no-cook breakfast solutionsfrom protein-rich yogurt parfaits to savory avocado mashesthat require zero stove time. These 2026-friendly ideas focus on assembly over cooking, helping you maintain peak energy levels throughout your busiest workdays.
Quote of the day by Ren Descartes: Ren Descartes, a foundational philosopher, championed doubt as essential for genuine understanding. His ideas encourage questioning assumptions and beliefs, fostering critical thinking, an invaluable skill in todays information-rich world. By embracing doubt, individuals can gain deeper insights and make more informed decisions across all aspects of life. Descartes wisdom remains profoundly relevant.
South India offers a masterclass in breakfast engineering, where fermented batters and steam-cooking create some of the most digestible and nutritious meals in the world. Here is the story of seven iconic South Indian breakfasts that define the morning ritual.
Artificial intelligence offers a unique opportunity for India to redefine governance and enhance the delivery of services to its citizens. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, emphasised how quickly India is adopting AI technologies and the potential of its large populace to drive significant advancements.
Narayana Murthy, one of the most well-known businessmen of our country, advises people not to be stuck at a place where they are not experiencing growth. You can apply this quote in corporate life as taking risks, accepting new challenges, and adapting to change may feel uncomfortable, but they help you grow professionally. Staying in a safe yet stagnant job hurts your career far more in the long run.
Word of the day: In an age where communication oscillates between brevity and spectacle, magniloquent shows languages theatrical power. Grand in sound and expansive in implication, the word encapsulates the art, and risk, of speaking greatly.
A new video reportedly shows 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra overtaking a bus moments before his fatal collision with a Scorpio SUV in Delhi. The SUV was allegedly driven by a minor who was making reels on the road. The minor has been granted interim bail, prompting concerns about the incident's handling.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron virtually inaugurated India's first private sector helicopter final assembly line for H-125 helicopters. Built jointly by Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Airbus in Karnataka, this facility signifies a deepening strategic partnership and advancement in India's aerospace manufacturing capabilities. French Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin attended the inauguration program.
Jesse Jackson Death: As the world mourns the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson, his words on justice and courage continue to inspire generations
Chilled Chapati Dough: Social media claims that chilled chapati dough causes digestive issues are debunked by food expert Krish Ashok. He explains that cold fermentation, a common baking technique, slows microbial activity, making dough easier to digest and improving its flavor. Proper refrigeration prevents harmful bacteria, ensuring safety.
Assam's financial strategy for 2026-27 showcases a robust budget of Rs 62,294.78 crore, emphasising direct cash assistance through initiatives like Nijut Moina and Orunodoi. Buoyed by a surge in economic prosperity, the state reports a remarkable increase in per capita income.
Prime Minister Modi and French President Macron held crucial talks in Mumbai, focusing on defense, AI, clean energy, and expanding trade. The meeting aimed to deepen the strategic partnership, with discussions covering a potential $35 billion Rafale jet deal and joint production initiatives. Both nations emphasized strategic autonomy and multilateral cooperation amidst global uncertainties.

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