The Economic Times

Indian National Congress has criticised the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, calling it ill-timed and alleging it could enable an unconstitutional and anti-federal delimitation exercise under the guise of womens reservation. The party also raised concerns over the use of outdated 2011 census data, arguing it would disadvantage states that successfully implemented population control measures, ahead of an INDIA bloc meeting to finalise a common position.

Thought of the day by Robert Frost highlights how a jury works through a short quote about lawyers and decisions. The quote connects law, society, and daily life. The story explains the meaning, relevance, life lessons, and the journey of poet Robert Frost. It covers his early life, education, family, awards, and literary legacy. The article explores how his words still guide thinking and discussion today.

Australian influencer Leah Halton has become a major talking point at Coachella, captivating fans with her striking looks and standout fashion. Her presence has dominated social media, with many calling her the 'most beautiful girl alive' and praising her festival style. This attention builds on her previous viral fame from a lip-sync video.

India's market regulator Sebi seeks clarity from the tax department on the duties of authorised representatives for foreign investors. Fund houses need clear guidelines as these representatives may face tax demands. Many professionals are hesitant to take on these roles without understanding their liabilities. Sebi is actively engaging with the Central Board of Direct Taxes to resolve this issue soon.

Fresh tensions have emerged in Manipur after the body of an unidentified woman was found in Churachandpur district, prompting a police investigation amid ongoing unrest, curfews, and continued restrictions in parts of the state.

MacKenzie Scott donation news shows support for elderly care in the US. Meals on Wheels America will use the funds to improve meal delivery and services for seniors. Many older people are waiting for help, so this funding is important. The story highlights growing demand, charity work, and the need for more donations to support senior citizens.

Starting from the assessment year 2026-27, a new mandate will compel taxpayers utilizing the presumptive taxation system to reveal their bank balances and investments. This initiative by the Income-Tax Department aims to curtail potential abuses of the scheme by allowing authorities to verify reported income against financial assets.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially launched the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, marking a significant investment in national infrastructure. Since 2014, spending on such projects has seen a staggering six-fold increase. The expressway, at a cost of 12,000 crore, promises to cut down travel times and expenses significantly. It thoughtfully includes a wildlife corridor to safeguard local animals.

Narendra Modi urged swift implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, calling it a long-considered reform with historical roots and stressing that further delay would be unjust. In an open letter to women ahead of a constitutional amendment in Parliament, he called for consensus across parties to ensure 33% reservation for women in legislatures is implemented fully by the 2029 elections.

Real estate transactions in Dubai fell 14% in early April amid the West Asia conflict, with buyer sentiment hit and rental demand sharply declining. Smaller developers offered discounts and flexible plans, while prices largely held. Though enquiries have picked up after a ceasefire, deals may take time. Experts say demand remains structurally strong, but prolonged tensions could trigger further price corrections and slower market activity.

Amid market volatility linked to the Iran conflict and delays in the IDBI Bank sale, the government plans to accelerate asset monetisation to bridge potential revenue gaps. Stake sales in Life Insurance Corporation of India may also face headwinds, making monetisation a key fiscal lever this year.

Rahul Gandhi accused the Bharatiya Janata Party and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh of weakening the Constitution and democracy through their ideology, while also criticising the All India Trinamool Congress over corruption and unmet job promises in West Bengal.

France is considering a ban on Kanye West performing in Marseille. This follows backlash over his past antisemitic comments. West was also barred from entering the UK for the Wireless Festival. Organizers cancelled his UK performance. French officials are exploring all options to prevent his Marseille concert. The city's mayor previously stated West was not welcome.

Chinese proverb of the day: The proverb emphasizes the profound difference between secondhand information and firsthand experience. It encourages independent thinking by urging individuals to observe and explore, forming their own perspectives rather than solely relying on what they are told.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu called the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project a national strategic asset. He launched development projects totaling Rs 196.44 crore in Siang district. The Chief Minister emphasised the project's benefits for national security, flood control and economic growth.

Indian National Congress and Left parties have backed a workers protest in Noida demanding higher minimum wages and better conditions, citing rising fuel prices and living costs due to the West Asia conflict. Rahul Gandhi said the demands are justified, while trade unions urged authorities to address workers grievances through dialogue.

Mizoram has signed a significant peace accord with the Hmar Peoples Convention-Democratic (LF) faction. This agreement promises comprehensive development for the Sinlung Hills Council region. Enhanced budgets and infrastructure upgrades are planned. The pact marks the end of armed insurgent groups in Mizoram. A formal laying of arms ceremony is scheduled for April 30, 2026.

The violence erupted following the seizure of a large quantity of drugs from a suspected drug peddler at the Imphal airport.

Amman Arjunan has criticized DMKs Senthil Balaji for contesting from Coimbatore South, questioning his shift from Karur and accusing him of failing to deliver on promises. The remarks come ahead of a high-profile three-way contest, with Arjunan expressing confidence in AIADMKs prospects in the region.

Chennai Super Kings secured their second consecutive Indian Premier League win. They defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 32 runs. Chennai Super Kings posted 192 runs. Kolkata Knight Riders were restricted to 160 runs. Noor Ahmad was exceptional with the ball for Chennai Super Kings. Rovman Powell and Ramandeep Singh showed fight for Kolkata Knight Riders.

The Enforcement Directorate has summoned relatives of I-PAC's Bengal chief for questioning. This follows the arrest of Vinesh Chandel, a director and co-founder of the political consultancy firm. The ED is investigating alleged financial irregularities and money laundering amounting to approximately Rs 50 crore. Chandel has been remanded to ED custody.

StubHub will pay money to some customers after a case by the Federal Trade Commission about hidden ticket fees. The issue happened for a few days in May 2025. Some people saw lower prices first and higher prices later. Now refunds will be given. Customers do not need to apply. This shows rules on online pricing are becoming stricter now.

A remark by a Kolkata South election officer warning troublemakers would need Boroline and Burnol has sparked a political row, with Mamata Banerjee criticising poll authorities. The Trinamool Congress filed a complaint, calling the post inflammatory and in violation of election rules. The Election Commission has sought a report. Banerjee also alleged targeting of her party and raised concerns over possible arrests of booth agents.

Samrat Choudhary will be the new Chief Minister of Bihar. The swearing-in ceremony is set for Wednesday morning in Patna. Senior JDU leaders Vijay Choudhary and Bijendra Yadav will also take oath as deputy chief ministers. The BJP legislature party meeting confirmed Choudhary's leadership. He expressed gratitude and pledged to work for Bihar's development.

April 15, 2026 is here. The US tax deadline ends today. Over 10 million Americans are still at risk. IRS data shows penalties begin immediately after the cutoff. Late payment triggers a 0.5% monthly penalty. Interest charges also start growing daily. Missing the filing deadline can cost even more. Filing late does not stop penalties. Paying late increases total tax liability fast. The IRS urges taxpayers to act now. File returns electronically to avoid delays. Use IRS Free File or Direct Pay tod

In the face of workplace negativity, holding on to self-belief can be difficult but not impossible. Affirmations offer a simple, accessible way to rebuild confidence and protect mental well-being.

Renault plans significant job cuts in its engineering department. The French automaker will reduce its global engineering staff by up to 20 percent in the next two years. This move aims to increase agility and compete effectively with fast-developing Chinese car manufacturers. The company is adopting strategies to mirror Chinese development methods.

US-Iran war news: Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained limited on the first full day of a U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, despite some vessels transiting. Announced by Donald Trump, the move has heightened uncertainty for global shipping, oil flows and insurers.

Samrat Choudhary's political career has seen many turns. He began as a minister nearly three decades ago. After joining the BJP nine years ago, his rise was rapid. He has now become the party's first Chief Minister in Bihar. Choudhary faces challenges in uniting allies and addressing past criticisms.

A boat carrying Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals capsized in the Andaman Sea. Around 250 people are feared missing. The vessel departed from Teknaf, Bangladesh, heading for Malaysia. It reportedly sank due to heavy winds, rough seas, and overcrowding. Nine survivors were rescued by the Bangladesh Coast Guard. This incident highlights the dangers faced by refugees seeking a better life.

Kevin Warsh is in news as a top choice for Federal Reserve Chair. He is very rich and has worked in banking and government before. His selection is facing delay due to political issues and an ongoing investigation. The situation also involves criticism of current Fed Chair and interest rate decisions, making it an important financial and political story.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Karnataka on April 15 to inaugurate the Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandira in Mandya district. He will also release a book with former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda. The Mandira is a memorial dedicated to the late Balagangadharanatha Swami, honoring his contributions to social service, education, and healthcare.

Spanish proverb of the day focuses on the saying The shrimp that sleeps is taken by the current. The proverb teaches the value of action, awareness, and timing in daily life. It explains how inaction leads to missed chances and loss. This explainer covers meaning, origin, cultural relevance, translations, and related sayings that teach similar lessons about opportunity, focus, and persistence in modern life and decision making.

Quote of the day: In a world where stress often feels unavoidable, Mark Twains words remind us that not all burdens are real. Some are self-created, sustained by habit rather than necessity. Letting go of such worries is not an act of denial but one of clarity, recognising that peace of mind is not found in anticipating every possible problem, but in understanding which ones truly matter.

A lucky winner could soon own a $1 million Picasso painting for under $120 through a French raffle. The draw, held at Christie's in Paris, aims to raise funds for Alzheimer's research. This is the third such lottery, with previous events supporting cultural and humanitarian projects.

Indias soybean meal exports dropped nearly 63% to 60,000 tonnes in March, hit by high domestic prices and disruptions from the West Asia conflict, according to Soybean Processors Association of India. Shipments to key markets like Iran and the UAE were affected. However, domestic demand stayed strong, with consumption rising to six lakh tonnes, supported by the animal feed industry.

Pakistan's envoy to Russia, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, praised India and Pakistan's nuclear safety record. He stated both nations have mutual guarantees against attacking each other's nuclear facilities. Tirmizi also expressed optimism about Russia's potential role as a mediator in improving Pakistan-India relations. He emphasized the importance of these guarantees amidst regional hostilities.

The Walt Disney Company will cut about 1,000 jobs as new CEO Josh D'Amaro moves to streamline operations. Layoffs will affect marketing, studios, TV, ESPN and tech teams. The move comes as Disney adapts to declining TV revenues, box office pressures and rising competition. It follows earlier cost-cutting efforts, including 7,000 job cuts announced in 2023 to improve financial performance.

Disney layoffs explained: New CEO Josh D'Amaro is initiating a significant restructuring at The Walt Disney Company, leading to approximately 1,000 job cuts. This move aims to streamline operations and adapt to the rapidly evolving entertainment industry, with the marketing division expected to be most affected.

India is seeking self-reliance in fertilizers. Experts propose a multi-pronged approach using artificial intelligence and precision nutrient management. This strategy aims to reduce import dependence and optimize fertilizer use. Initiatives like the Soil Health Card scheme will be strengthened. A mission mode program will promote organic manures to replace mineral fertilizers.

Pakistan is facing a big economic stress after the UAE has demanded repayment of a multibillion-dollar deposit. This has strained the country's thin foreign exchange reserves. Rising oil prices and limited financing options have added to the pressure. Pakistan is seeking new funding sources, including international bonds and bilateral aid.

Ajit Doval said national security is multifaceted, stressing that a nations willpower and peoples inherent strength are decisive alongside military capability. Speaking at Rashtriya Raksha University in Gandhinagar, he highlighted citizens collective responsibility and the importance of awareness, discipline, teamwork and commitment in strengthening national morale.

Blake Lively has submitted filings seeking to exclude any reference to her and Reynolds net worth, income, or overall financial status during the trial. The motion also aims to block Baldonis legal team from presenting related arguments that could potentially sway the jury.

US-Iran war news: A U.S. naval blockade is in effect around Iran's ports and coastal areas. No ships have successfully passed the blockade. Six merchant vessels have turned back following U.S. military orders. This action follows the breakdown of peace talks between the U.S. and Iran. The blockade impacts vessels going to or from Iran.