The Economic Times

Bahujan Samaj Party will contest all upcoming elections independently, prioritizing political power for exploited sections. Mayawati stated her nephew Akash Anand needs more maturity for major party responsibilities. Preparations are underway for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, which will see a major contest. Former AIMIM leader Asim Waqar joined Congress, aiming to challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Kharge questioned Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah's silence on the issue. He urged people to support Rahul Gandhi's fight for Dalits and women.

India and Belgium are cooperating on advanced defense equipment development. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the indigenous Zorawar light tank's capabilities. This collaboration includes manufacturing the Belgian John Cockerill turret in India. The Zorawar tank is designed for high-altitude warfare in challenging terrains. Induction of these tanks into the Indian Army is expected by 2027.

In 1983, six brave rats embarked on an experimental journey aboard the Challenger shuttle. Their specially designed enclosure ensured protection from any contamination caused by the animals. Despite successfully maintaining safety, the mission highlighted critical challenges in food distribution and water accessibility. This pivotal short flight yielded essential insights necessary for the development of long-term space missions, emphasizing the need for testing life support systems in adverse s

The Maharashtra Charity Commissioner has dismissed a complaint against the Tata Trusts. The complaint questioned a 1989 share transfer from Navajbai Ratan Tata Trust. The Commissioner found the sale was necessitated by statutory compulsions and properly documented. Consideration received was based on an agreed valuation and resulted in a profit. The Commissioner noted the complainant's conduct was unbecoming of a trustee.

Kitchen shelves often gather grease and crumbs, turning cleaning into a chore. By using aluminium foil, you can create an easy-to-clean barrier. Just line your shelves with foil to trap spills and debris. When it gets messy, simply swap it out for a fresh piece. This clever trick not only streamlines your cleaning routine but also minimizes the elbow grease required to maintain a spotless kitchen.

India and Belgium will work to double bilateral trade over the next five years. Cooperation will expand beyond traditional commerce into defence and clean energy sectors. Both nations seek to enhance collaboration in critical minerals and semiconductor technology. Belgium's expertise and India's scale offer complementary strengths for mutual growth. This strategic partnership aims to foster shared priorities for a clean energy future.

The Morton Arboretum, founded in 1922, conserves biodiversity and enhances climate resilience. This living collection of trees offers significant value to human well-being. Research shows urban trees reduce stress and improve moods for city dwellers. The Arboretum actively works to improve tree canopy in under-resourced neighborhoods. A century later, this institution continues its vital work for future generations.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni will not play as an Impact Player in future IPL seasons. He prefers to remain a full-time wicketkeeper for the entire duration. Subramaniam Badrinath feels the Impact Player role could benefit Chennai Super Kings tactically. Dhoni's fitness concerns continue to fuel speculation about his IPL participation. His decision affects Chennai Super Kings' planning for upcoming seasons.

India will compete against South Korea in the Davis Cup 2026 Qualifiers. This tie offers a chance to reach the prestigious Final 8 in Bologna. The team aims to end a long wait for its first Davis Cup championship. Sumit Nagal and Yuki Bhambri lead the Indian squad for this crucial match. This event marks India's first appearance in the second round under the current format.

In 1869, Frederick Billings took the ambitious step of reforesting a deforested hillside in Vermont. His efforts led to the establishment of a thriving, sustainably managed forest that persists to this day, symbolizing environmental resilience and the power of foresight. Once ravaged by sheep farming, this land is now preserved and overseen by the National Park Service.

New Operation Sindoor Corner unveiled at upgraded Akkulam Air Force Museum in Kerala

Crispy on the outside, soft and slightly crunchy on the inside, Maddur vada is one of those Karnataka snacks that is difficult to stop at just one. Named after Maddur, a town between Bengaluru and Mysuru, this popular snack gets its distinctive flavour from onions, green chillies and a mix of rice flour and semolina.

Lollapalooza India has announced its complete lineup for the 2027 festival, set to take place in Mumbai. Fans can look forward to electrifying performances from international sensations like Olivia Dean and Limp Bizkit. The two-day festival will unfold on January 23 and 24, featuring over twenty hours of live music spread across four dynamic stages. Ticket sales are now open through official partners.

Wild crows demonstrated remarkable memory by recreating tool sizes without visual cues. These birds operated a special vending machine, learning to produce specific paper piece dimensions. After the visual template was removed, six out of eight crows still made the correct size. This suggests crows form mental images and reconstruct tools using their own techniques. Such findings challenge traditional views on how tool-making skills are passed down through generations.

The Supreme Court ruled the Bar Council of India has no power over law students. Educational institutions must regulate student conduct under their own norms. The court set aside BCI notifications concerning NALSAR University students. This decision came after BCI's intervention in a student campaign against the CJI. BCI cannot control students before they become advocates.

Los Angeles's streetlight upgrade significantly surpassed energy saving projections, achieving 63% reduction. This massive project replaced over 140,000 old sodium bulbs with efficient LEDs. The city also experienced reduced maintenance needs due to the longer lifespan of LED fixtures. Financial savings from energy and maintenance paid for the project within seven years. Environmental gains included substantial cuts in carbon emissions, equivalent to removing thousands of cars annually.

A 15-year-old Canadian student built a battery-free flashlight that uses the temperature difference between a warm human palm and cooler air to generate electricity. Her Hollow Flashlight used thermoelectric tiles to power an LED for more than 20 minutes.

The World Meteorological Organization warns of a very strong El Nino event. This phenomenon is expected to persist through February and intensify further. Global temperatures will likely rise, impacting rainfall and temperature patterns worldwide. Communities and economies face significant disruption from floods and droughts. Disaster management authorities must prepare for increasing climate-related risks.

The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee has ended its political alliance with Raijor Dal. This decision follows alleged repeated violations of coalition ethics and conduct by Raijor Dal. The Congress cited malicious propaganda and character assassination against its party leaders. This move comes after public criticism of Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi's remarks. The alliance termination will not affect the Congress's commitment to public issues.

Devastating flash floods have created a booming disaster economy in Nepal. International journalists and aid workers have overwhelmed local infrastructure and services. Hotels and guesthouses are charging premium rates for basic shelter and accommodation. Transport costs have soared due to destroyed roads and bridges. Bilingual fixers and translators are earning significantly higher wages.

A woman with a confirmed train reservation was arrested and forced off the train at midnight after a stranger allegedly cancelled her ticket. A railway inquiry found that one digit in her booking mobile number had changed, sending the reservation message to another person. SHRC has now ordered Railways to pay her Rs 2 lakh.

India awaits US tariff advantage for trade deal finalization. The agreement was announced on February 3, 2026, reducing US tariffs on Indian goods. New Delhi seeks a clear tariff edge over competing manufacturing economies. India has protected its agriculture and dairy sectors under the agreement. Sectors like MSMEs and textiles will benefit from lower tariffs.

A delightful homemade spray can enliven your homes entryway with a soothing vanilla aroma. By blending water with vanilla essence, this mixture effectively masks undesirable odors that may linger at the threshold. This cost-effective solution not only rivals commercial air fresheners but is also simple to make, providing a quick fix for a more inviting and fresh atmosphere.

Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, a veteran of the Indian Air Force, takes charge as the first CEO of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust after a distinguished 43-year career in the IAF. His service included critical assignments, including the secure transportation of sensitive NEET-UG examination papers across the country. His experience in major operations, including Operation Sindoor, brings extensive leadership, strategic and crisis-management expertise to his new role at the Ram Mandi

Four children from the same family died within 10 days after falling ill following a visit to a waterfall near Gora Tila in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri. The health department has launched an investigation, while the exact cause of death remains unclear.

Pakistan cricket has initiated another significant overhaul in its team management. Mike Hesson now leads the Test side after Sarfaraz Ahmed's removal following a series loss. Seven players were released from the Test squad, and new replacements were named. This marks a pattern of frequent resets in Pakistan's cricketing structure. The board faces scrutiny over its approach to building stability.

Finland has initiated an extensive civil defence drill, simulating scenarios of cyberattacks and missile threats to bolster preparedness. By learning from Ukraines swift shelter mobilisation, Finland has drawn lessons from historical conflicts with the Soviet Union.

Olympic champion Tara Davis-Woodhall suffered a concussion after a car crash last week. She is now uncertain to compete in next week's World Athletics Ultimate Championship. The accident occurred while she was driving to a training session. Davis-Woodhall has not trained since the crash and is assessing her readiness. Her participation remains in doubt due to the unfortunate timing of the incident.

The Delhi High Court has clarified the responsibilities of political party agents. Booth level agents are only liable for verifying elector photographs on forms. This ruling came after a petition challenging personal undertaking requirements. The court stated verification is a statutory function for officers. This decision impacts the electoral roll revision process.

In a tragic incident in Jhansi, a 27-year-old woman was discovered dead, reportedly strangled by her husband. Medical examinations corroborated strangulation, revealing facial injuries. Her family accused him of previous physical abuse over trivial matters. Authorities believe he may have fled the scene, and investigations are underway to piece together the events preceding her death.

The child rights commission has advised removing sugar from Amrutham Nutri Mix. It suggested replacing sugar with a small quantity of jaggery for children. A high-level committee will scientifically determine the nutritional composition of products. Guidelines will be prepared on Nutri Mix quantity based on children's age.

India can unlock a wheat export opportunity of more than USD 1.5 billion as the gradual reopening of exports coincides with strong domestic production, comfortable stocks and efforts by major global buyers to diversify their sources, an ASSOCHAM report said.

Ongoing tensions involving Iran are pushing major oil importers to develop alternative supply routes, which increasingly bypass the supply hubs that previously dominated global energy trade.

AI prompts: Janmashtami is inspiring a wave of captivating AI photo trends across social media, with users transforming their everyday pictures into enchanting portraits inspired by Radha Rani. Using tailored AI prompts that incorporate traditional attire, intricate jewellery and spiritual backdrops, people can create unique and artistic festive portraits that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India.

President Trump plans extensive campaigning for Republicans in competitive races. He will travel to thirty-five key contests over the final month. Tele-townhalls will also be utilized to directly reach voters. Trump will personally campaign in Alaska and Texas Senate races. This push mirrors his intense focus during his presidential campaign.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has announced plans to build a Motor Sports City with a Formula racing track and youth training facilities, along with a separate Olympic City aimed at producing more gold medal winners for the state. The two projects are part of the government's larger push to build modern sports infrastructure and boost athlete development in Tamil Nadu.

Britain's NHS chair sees India as a future global healthcare model. India utilizes technology to expand healthcare access and reduce costs significantly. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and eSanjeevani platform showcase this digital infrastructure. Artificial intelligence aids disease detection and outbreak prediction across the nation. India's approach offers lessons for other countries seeking better healthcare delivery.

The Tamil Nadu government will sell onions at Rs 35 per kg through 8,739 ration shops. This initiative aims to control soaring onion prices for approximately 80 lakh family cardholders. The government has procured 1000 tonnes of onions to implement this subsidised sale program. Opposition parties have raised concerns about the rising prices of essential commodities.

Abhinandan varthaman retired: Former IAF Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a commercial pilot after leaving the Indian Air Force and obtaining the required NOC from the Defence Ministry. As per reports, he has obtained a NOC from the defence ministry for transition from fighter pilot to a commercial pilot.

YouTuber Nitish Rajput is in the spotlight as a strong contender for Bigg Boss 20! Renowned for his engaging political and historical videos, this potential transition from the digital realm has fans buzzing. With rumors swirling of other personalities joining the mix, all eyes are on the upcoming season, hosted by Salman Khan, promising a fresh and thrilling experience.

Lumino Industries shares extended their strong debut gains, rising another 4% after listing at a 34% premium to the IPO price. While analysts see attractive valuations, strong profitability and debt reduction as positives, fresh investors have been advised to wait for consolidation, while IPO allottees can consider partial profit booking and monitor key support levels.

Bengaluru tops the charts for household income and savings among Indias major cities, while Chennai records the highest debt-to-income ratio, driven largely by housing demand. Delhi-NCR, meanwhile, emerges as the countrys biggest consumption hub, thanks to its large household base. Mumbai and Delhi-NCR also have the highest number of affluent households, while urban spending patterns are increasingly shifting towards housing, healthcare and education.

IFCI shares rallied over 16% in two sessions amid expectations that the long-delayed NSE IPO could be nearing launch. IFCI indirectly owns more than 4% of NSE through its stake in Stock Holding Corporation of India. SEBI has moved closer to approving NSEs IPO after settling key regulatory cases, while the exchange seeks a valuation of up to Rs 5.26 lakh crore.

Vertika Shukla's rent increased significantly from fifteen thousand to one lakh eighty-one thousand rupees. She began her independent life at twenty-two with fifty thousand rupees monthly income. Shukla changed companies and pursued an MBA to build her career and confidence. These decisions gradually created financial independence and a better lifestyle. Her current home represents the ability to build a life on her own terms.

HUDCO shares jumped nearly 4% after the company signed an MoU with the Government of Bihar to provide financial assistance of up to Rs 25,000 crore over five years for industrial infrastructure and land acquisition. The development comes after HUDCO signed another Rs 1 lakh crore MoU with Bihar in July for urban infrastructure projects.

Farmers continue their protest at the Chandigarh border for a third day. They are demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price on crops. The cancellation of old water agreements is also a key demand. Unions are prepared for nationwide protests against a proposed Free Trade Agreement. Farmers seek loan waivers and a proper crop insurance scheme.

German automakers face high labor costs and foreign competition. Calls are rising to extend the standard 35-hour work week to 40 hours. This change could potentially reduce costs for German auto plants. However, experts doubt it will solve structural issues or demand problems. Unions advocate for cooperation, citing past successful agreements for flexibility.

Global investors are reassessing India's economic prospects due to its strong growth. US investors see confidence boosted by India's infrastructure and reforms. More regulatory opening is needed to attract greater foreign direct investment. Policy predictability is crucial for attracting large, long-term capital commitments. India's ambition to become a developed economy shows strong momentum.