The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
Addressing the BJP's 'Save Democracy-Remove Anarchy' march in Nagpur, Nitin Gadkari took exception to the language used by Congress leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge when talking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Centre has taken possession of 39.5 acres housing the Indian Air Force's Sports Complex near the Prime Minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg in Delhi. The move is part of a wider land reclamation exercise that has also involved the Delhi Race Club, Jaipur Polo Ground and Delhi Gymkhana Club.
The escalating war of words followed statements by Union MoS Jitendra Singh, who alleged that CJP activists are being funded by unauthorised foreign sources, deep state operatives, and anti-India organisations operating within and outside the country.
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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed concern over Europe's fragmented approach to Ukraine peace negotiations. She highlights that differing diplomatic initiatives reduce Europe's credibility on the global stage. Meloni emphasizes the need for the EU to appoint a single representative with a clear mandate for negotiations. She insists on addressing this matter at the upcoming informal European Council in Dublin.
Getty has unveiled a generous $12 million endowment aimed at facilitating complimentary bus rides for eligible K-12 school groups. Instituted by the Camilla Chandler Family Foundation, this initiative is poised to enhance accessibility for Title I schools. By alleviating transportation expenses, this funding promises to enrich students' educational journeys and deepen their appreciation for art and culture, ensuring that financial constraints do not obstruct museum experiences.
BJP leader Sambit Patra claimed that Rahul Gandhi avoids parliamentary debates and prefers street confrontations instead. He challenged Gandhi to engage with his own party members regarding the SIR exercise allegations. Patra defended the SIR process against Congress accusations and cited data on voter deletions. He emphasized the importance of the Election Commission as a constitutional body amidst opposition claims.
The Indian government announced changes to the Agnipath recruitment scheme for Agniveers in the military. Those completing a four-year tenure will get a two-year extension and a chance for regular recruitment. All Agniveers demonstrating willingness, physical fitness, and discipline will be absorbed into the regular cadre. Seniority will be maintained when they join, ensuring they are not junior to others.
The Supreme Court reaffirmed a 1974 ruling regarding states' power to levy additional sales tax. This ruling clarified that such levies are enhancements to existing sales tax rates. The court found that previous challenges did not hold merit due to changes in tax legislation. The Goods and Services Tax framework significantly altered the taxation system for states. Therefore, the legal question presented has been rendered academic by these developments.
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the legendary player has retired from the international football on Thursday. The 41-year-old player told in a video message on social media that he is retiring from wearing the number 7 jersey for his country Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo was born on February 5, 1985. His parents are Maria Dolores dos Santos Viveiros Aveiro and Jos Dinis Aveiro. The star has three siblings and five children.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has implemented a new fee for no-objection certificates, which are essential for players wishing to join various leagues. This has led to a number of Pakistani players being unable to participate in the forthcoming Abu Dhabi T10 League, forcing organizers to seek substitutes. Frustration rises among players since smaller leagues struggle to cover these fees, mirroring issues faced in previous tournaments.
A newly established wildlife hospital in Thailand aims to enhance medical care for rescued animals facing injuries and threats from exploitation or illegal wildlife trade. This state-of-the-art facility will cater to various needs, including emergency treatments and rehabilitation. Long-term care is also available for animals that cannot return to their natural habitat, highlighting the importance of ongoing funding to sustain its vital operations.
Laika became the first animal to orbit Earth when the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 2 in November 1957. While the mission made history, the stray dog died just hours after liftoff. A Russian scientist revealed the actual circumstances of her death in 2002, challenging the Soviet Union's earlier account of the mission.
Dianna Russini is set to make a triumphant return to sports journalism with the launch of a new digital show slated for next week. This exciting program promises exclusive interviews with NFL players and coaches, signaling her strong comeback. Backed by supportive colleagues in the sports media realm, Russini is eager to put past controversies behind her and re-establish her presence in sports reporting after her resignation from The Athletic.
Activists Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid have challenged the Delhi High Court's refusal to grant them bail. They argue that the prosecution has not examined key protected witnesses in their case. Both activists were arrested in 2020 regarding the alleged conspiracy behind the February riots in northeast Delhi. The Supreme Court previously set conditions under which they could seek bail related to the charges.
Chinaberry trees, initially brought to the Southern U.S. in the 1830s for their beauty, have proliferated extensively. These invasive species create dense thickets that block sunlight, hindering the growth of native plants in ecosystems across Georgia and South Carolina. This situation underscores the urgency of managing ornamental plants wisely, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and prompt removal to protect the health of our forests.
Benjamin Netanyahu's political situation diminished after an ultra-Orthodox party did not endorse any candidate. Meanwhile, an Arab-led party expressed support for Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu's chief political rival. Israel's President Isaac Herzog is set to meet both candidates to assess their potential for forming a government. The recent election resulted in a deadlock, with neither candidate achieving a clear parliamentary majority.
Italy's Deputy Economy Minister Maurizio Leo indicated that there may be changes to the proposed exit tax. This tax imposes a 26% levy on wealthy individuals transferring their tax domicile abroad. The levy applies to those holding financial investments exceeding 800,000. Criticism from tax experts and financial advisers has prompted discussions on the tax's structure. The government is open to dialogue regarding alternative proposals to the exit tax.
The Maharashtra government has announced a one-time relaxation in age limits for state recruitment exams until December 31, 2027. This decision follows protests from candidates regarding delays in recruitment procedures that made them ineligible. Candidates can now apply with this extended age limit for certain advertisements issued by the MPSC. Recruitment agencies are also included in this relaxation, offering opportunities for newly eligible candidates.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has invited Congress to discuss the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. He emphasized that the procedure for SIR has been consistently implemented since 1947. Vaishnaw questioned Congress's reversal on topics such as Electronic Voting Machines and ballot papers. He also raised concerns about the integrity of voter lists and citizenship. This discussion follows a padyatra led by Vaishnaw and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.
British inflation is likely to reach around 5% in the middle of next year, the BoE said, more than double the central bank's target and a blow for new Prime Minister Andy Burnham who has sought to ease of cost of living pressures.
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced on Thursday that the soccer player is retiring from international football. He is leaving behind an impressive career with Portugal. He has had a record number of appearances and goals. The 41-year-old star has had an incredible career. He has won five Ballon dOr awards. The footballer has a rags to the riches story.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Indian para-athletes to congratulate them on their record medal haul at the Asian Para Games 2026. India achieved a historic total of 114 medals, surpassing its previous record from the last edition. Notable performances included victories in para-badminton, para-archery, and track and field events, showcasing the athletes' exceptional skills.
West Bengal has launched a new investment promotion policy aimed at encouraging industrial growth and job creation. The policy includes substantial incentives for businesses, especially those focused on employing women and transgender workers. It offers streamlined processes for approvals and payments, enhancing efficiency for investors. Priority areas will receive higher assistance levels and a framework for regular review every three years.
Australian pines were brought to Florida in the 1800s as a means of protecting against storms and enhancing landscapes. By 1993, however, these trees had taken over more than 372,000 acres, leading to harmful impacts on local ecosystems through monocultures. A study following Hurricane Andrew revealed that merely 4% of these trees withstood the severe winds, exposing their shallow root problems.
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities and is considered an auspicious occasion to welcome wealth, prosperity and good health.
New Delhi: Mehli Mistry has challenged his removal as a trustee of Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT) and Bai Hirabai Jamsetji Tata Navsari Charitable Institution before the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner, alleging procedural irregularities and violations of trust governance rules.In three rejoinders and applications filed before the Deputy Charity Commissioner, Mistry has questioned the legality of the decisions leading to his removal, the eligibility of certain trustees and their participation in
Ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections, the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party are trading personal attacks. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has been subjected to alcohol-related jibes from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during campaigning. Gandhi accused the AAP of failing to tackle drug issues in Punjab while asserting that control lies with Delhi. Both parties continue to criticize each other as they prepare for the upcoming elections.
Ajay Srivastava, Founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) said the election results could push Trump to focus more on trade negotiations and expedite the proposed agreement with India.
Jairam Ramesh has voiced serious concerns about the government's initiative to utilize Voter ID for welfare programmes, suggesting that this could undermine the intended functions of Aadhaar. He highlighted that several beneficiaries have already encountered hardship under Aadhaar's system. Ramesh cautioned that adopting Voter ID instead might worsen the challenges surrounding access to essential benefits and amplify debates on electoral integrity and citizens' rights in India.
The price of gold is on the rise again. The precious metal has reached to its highest level in over two weeks on Thursday. The jump in the bullion prices has been witnessed after the US midterm election results. The spot gold has increased by 1.6% to $4,124.89 per ounce by 0752 GMT.
India has voiced its opposition to a Pakistan-led UN resolution on regional arms control, asserting that arms control transcends regional boundaries. With approximately 180 nations endorsing it, both India and Israel stood alone in dissent. India reiterated its long-standing position on arms control as a matter of principle, while a few other countries, including the U.S., shared hesitations about the resolution.
The INDIA bloc parties held a protest in Bengaluru against the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and other leaders demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They alleged a lack of transparency in the electoral rolls revision process and expressed the need for justice for voters. District and block-level protests are planned to expand their campaign across Karnataka.
Sharjeel Imam has moved the Supreme Court for bail regarding his involvement in the February 2020 riots. The Delhi High Court previously denied bail, citing the need for witness examinations. Imam argues that the prosecution has yet to examine any witnesses in over six months. Despite these circumstances, he continues to face serious charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Japanese climbing ferns, introduced for ornamental purposes, have proliferated across southern forests since the early 1900s. These ferns pose risks to native plants by causing shading and competing for resources. Fire crews are concerned about their ability to facilitate crown fires in pine plantations. While fire can damage the ferns, it is ineffective for complete control, necessitating early detection efforts.
In a recent statement, Union Minister Nityanand Rai accused the Congress party of being terrified of impending electoral losses, alleging that they are attempting to shield fraudulent voters. He reported that 13 crore names were deleted during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Rai asserted that Congress is jeopardizing India's democratic foundation by siding with infiltrators and prioritizing corruption over the needs of citizens during elections.
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In a groundbreaking study, scientists have engineered starfish egg cells to respond to light stimuli, allowing them to dynamically alter their shapes. These cells can morph from elongated squares to contracted forms depending on the intensity of light exposure. This innovative research opens doors for potential advancements in synthetic biology, including tissue repair and targeted drug delivery systems that activate precisely where needed.
India is in advanced discussions to supply additional BrahMos missile systems to the Philippines by expanding their existing deal. This potential transaction could be valued between $700 million and $800 million, considerably higher than previous contracts. The acquisition comes as the Philippines seeks to modernize its military capabilities amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.
In a groundbreaking study, Cornell University researchers evaluated agrivoltaics in Albany, New York, focusing on crops like radishes and radicchio. Their findings revealed that solar panel shading led to considerable reductions in light and biomass. With agrivoltaic land usage in the U.S. having more than doubled since 2020, they advocate for strategic adjustments in planting schedules and crop choices to optimize synergy between agriculture and solar energy.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari raised allegations regarding irregularities in the Punjab PCS Mains examination results recently. He claimed that candidates without roll numbers were selected, raising questions about the selection process. Bhandari also pointed out the unusual concentration of successful candidates from a single examination center. The BJP accused Aam Aadmi Party leaders of possible involvement and collusion in the process.

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