The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
Actress Jacqueline Fernandes has expressed her willingness to become an approver in the Rs. 200 crore money laundering case. The Patiala House court has issued a notice to the Enforcement Directorate. Fernandes seeks to cooperate with the investigation. The court has asked the ED to file a reply by April 20. Arguments on the charge are ongoing.
The Allahabad High Court has halted the demolition of 48 homes and shops in Auraiya's Dibiyapur, ordering a status quo on the disputed properties. A bench will hear the case on April 29, demanding the state file its response within a week. Petitioners claim their documents were ignored, risking irreparable harm. The court seeks a detailed counter-affidavit from the government.
An 11-year-old boy suffered severe burns after allegedly being thrown into a burning tandoor at a wedding in Uttar Pradesh's Basti district. The incident reportedly occurred when a catering contractor became angry with the child for taking too many rasgullas. The child is in stable condition at a Lucknow medical college, and a case has been registered against unidentified individuals.
Elizabeth Taylors quote, If not to make the world better, what is money for?, reflects her belief that wealth carries purpose beyond personal comfort. The quote emphasizes responsibility, suggesting that financial success gains true meaning only when it improves lives. It remains relevant today as people increasingly question materialism and seek purpose-driven living. Taylors message encourages using resources for good, making wealth a force for compassion, progress, and lasting social impact.
Irish proverbs are short, simple sayings that give life advice in easy words. They talk about friendship, choices, actions, and wisdom. Many come from old Irish culture and were shared by people over time. These sayings help people understand right and wrong and make better decisions in daily life. They are still useful and meaningful today.
Quote of the day by Quentin Tarantino: Filmmaker Quentin Tarantino shares insights on the creative life. He explains that artists enjoy freedom in their downtime. However, when it is time to work, they must be responsible and available. This balance between freedom and accountability is key to success. Tarantino's career is a testament to this approach.
United States President Donald Trump has announced a significant shift in policy. Israel is now prohibited from conducting airstrikes in Lebanon. This decision aims to de-escalate tensions in West Asia. Washington is also engaging with Beirut regarding the Hezbollah situation. The move comes amid ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday alleged that a recent agreement with the United States would not have been signed by any Prime Minister unless he was compromised, while also making remarks linking a date and a puzzle around the number 16.
Ravi Kishan passionately advocated for the Women's Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha, emphasizing its roots in values and women's struggles. He shared personal anecdotes, highlighting his wife's support during difficult times. Kishan urged for women's representation, stating, Women should get 33%.
Lok Sabha rejected a legislative package to implement 33% women's reservation in legislative bodies, aiming for operationalization by the 2029 elections. This move delinks the quota from the census-linked delimitation, potentially expanding the Lok Sabha to 850 seats. While advancing the quota, concerns about population-based reallocation persist, requiring further parliamentary and state ratification.
Robert Downey Jr. believes life is painful and messy, but there's a catch. The Hollywood actor shared thoughts on discipline, respect and success. His words connect with his journey from early fame to addiction struggles, prison, comeback and awards. His career includes Iron Man, Sherlock Holmes and Oppenheimer. His thoughts show how discipline, fear of mediocrity and respect for life shaped his personal and professional comeback story.
For newcomers, Strands is a daily word puzzle created by The New York Times. Players are given a grid of letters and tasked with finding hidden words that fit a particular theme.
President Donald Trump has declared the naval blockade on Iran will continue. This measure will stay in effect until a complete agreement is reached with Tehran. Trump's statement follows Iran's assertion that the Strait of Hormuz is open to all ships. The blockade's continuation is tied to the finalization of a transaction with Iran.
India is enhancing training for scientists and academics. This initiative aims to equip institutions for future governance needs. Artificial intelligence and digital tools are highlighted as crucial for modern public service. The government is also broadening training to include parliamentarians and ministers. Integrity remains a core principle in public service.
India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in West Asia. The nation welcomes ceasefires and supports peace initiatives. India will attend international talks on maritime security. Efforts are underway to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region. India has facilitated the safe return of over 2,300 individuals. The country also remains committed to its climate change goals.
The Indian Air Force is enhancing its combat power. It is acquiring air-launched drones and loitering munitions. These systems will be deployed from helicopters and transport aircraft. This move will expand offensive roles and ease pressure on fighter jets. The IAF is aligning with global trends in drone swarm warfare.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle is set for a July 29 Blu-ray/DVD release, with an OTT debut expected soon after. The film, which grossed $271.1 million in Japan, chronicles Tanjiro Kamado's perilous journey into the Infinity Castle to confront powerful demons and Muzan Kibutsuji, marking the start of the anime's endgame arc.
Anthropic Mythos financial system risk: Global finance leaders are discussing Anthropic's new AI model, Claude Mythos. This advanced AI can identify system vulnerabilities. Finance ministers and central bankers are concerned about its potential impact on financial systems. Access to Mythos is restricted. Banks are urged to strengthen defenses. More such AI models are expected soon.
A disturbing odor from a towed Tesla led to a grim discovery. Investigators found the remains of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas. Singer D4vd was arrested in connection with her death. The investigation involved meticulous work over seven months. Authorities are building a case and will present it to prosecutors. D4vd's legal team denies the allegations.
The April new moon is traditionally linked to fresh beginnings, intention-setting, and personal renewal. This time, however, the lunation is intensified by the presence of several key planets in Aries, a sign known for its bold and action-oriented energy.
Marvels Avengers: Doomsday has sparked intense excitement following its exclusive CinemaCon 2026 showcase, even though the trailer has not been officially released online. The film sees Robert Downey Jr. return in a surprising new role, alongside Chris Evans reprising a familiar character.Though clips circulating online remain unofficial.
Social Security may face a money shortage sooner than expected. New rules and lower tax income are adding pressure. Experts are discussing benefit cuts and new plans to control spending. Some ideas may affect high earners more. People are also advised to save money early and plan better to stay financially safe in the future.
Donald Trump welcomed Irans decision to keep the Strait of Hormuz open for commercial shipping during the ceasefire period, calling it a positive step amid ongoing efforts to ease regional tensions.
As West Bengal gears up for elections, residents of Alipurduar's Falakata constituency are demanding a complete shutdown of the lottery system, citing it as exploitative and detrimental to the poor. Sellers and buyers alike describe a cycle of debt, addiction, and economic distress, with many losing significant amounts of money and some even resorting to suicide due to mounting pressure.
Pakistan faces a doubled electricity shortfall this week. Hydropower output has significantly decreased. This situation has led to extended power outages in northern Pakistan. The country had anticipated minimal impact from LNG supply disruptions. However, the decline in hydropower has worsened the power deficit. Pakistan is relying on fuel oil and expects hydropower to recover.
The Allahabad High Court has directed the registration of an FIR against Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. This follows allegations of dual citizenship. The court also suggested involving a central agency for investigation. The order came after a BJP worker challenged a lower court's dismissal of his plea. The case was transferred to Lucknow before the high court's directive.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted opposition parties resist women's reservation and delimitation. He argued delimitation is crucial for fair representation and increasing Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe seats. The government aims for women's reservation implementation by 2029, linked to delimitation after the next Census. Shah dismissed concerns about a North-South divide, emphasizing national unity.
Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton have sparked fresh rumours about their relationship after being seen shopping for home dcor in Los Angeles. The couple, connected since earlier this year, seemed to be relaxed while browsing luxury rugs and furnishings. Their outings at events such as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and shared moments from Tokyo hint at a growing bond.
Dhurandhar 2 Video: An AI-generated fan clip inspired by Dhurandhar 2 has gone viral for imagining an emotional moment where Jameel Jamali, played by Rakesh Bedi, reveals his long-hidden identity as an Indian spy to his daughter Yalina. The scene, which never appeared in the film, explores a powerful what if scenario, adding emotional depth to one of the storys biggest twists. Fans have widely reacted to the clip, praising its intensity and expressing a desire for more closure around Jamalis cha
Eligible families in Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, are denied housing benefits. Decades of occupancy on railway land disqualify them from the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Allegations of political nepotism and renaming of the scheme by the ruling TMC persist. Residents fear repercussions for speaking out. This situation highlights a gap between policy promises and grassroots execution.
Interstellar comet: A rare interstellar comet, C/2025 R3 (Pan-STARRS), last seen 170,000 years ago, is currently passing through our solar system. It will reach its brightest point later this month. Northern Hemisphere skywatchers can spot it in the eastern sky before sunrise between April 10 and 20.
Three Iranian oil tankers have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, carrying five million barrels of crude. This marks the first such departure since a US blockade was imposed. The vessels, Deep Sea, Sonia I, and Diona, are under US sanctions. Their destinations remain unknown, but they have historically transferred oil near Singapore for onward shipment to China.
Panopticon is more than a word, it is a concept that bridges architecture, philosophy, and modern digital life. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to capture the uneasy balance between visibility and control.
London shipping insurers are providing $1 billion in additional war coverage for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. This move by a marine war consortium led by Beazley aims to support the maritime sector amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict.
State Minority Commission chief Pyare Khan has accused former BJP MP Navneet Rana of inciting communal conflict in Amravati. This follows Rana's allegations regarding a case of obscene video clips of minor girls. Khan demanded Rana's expulsion from the BJP, citing her statements that victims were Hindu and accused were Muslim.
The UAE ambassador has reported 2,890 missile and drone attacks. He called these unprovoked strikes and urged stronger international action. The UAE faced these attacks despite not being a direct party to the conflict. These incidents threatened regional stability. UAE air defence systems intercepted most incoming threats. International bodies have called for accountability and reparations.
Pakistans air force escorted Iranian negotiators back home after inconclusive talks with the U.S. in Islamabad, deploying fighter jets and surveillance aircraft amid concerns the delegation could be targeted. Sources said the unusual security operation followed fearsraised by Iranian officialsof a possible threat, even as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran are expected to continue.
Income Tax officials searched properties linked to TMC MLA Debashis Kumar and Miraj Shah in Kolkata. The raids occurred days before voting for the assembly polls. The TMC alleged the searches were meant to harass the ruling party. The operation aims to uncover unaccounted money flow before the elections. Central forces were deployed at the locations.
China has strongly protested a Japanese military vessel sailing through the Taiwan Strait. Beijing views this move as a deliberate provocation and a threat to its sovereignty. This incident escalates already strained relations between China and Japan. China maintains its claim over Taiwan and the strait. The Chinese military monitored the vessel's passage.
The Corporate Affairs Ministry is embarking on an initiative to streamline company law filings, merging various forms into a more user-friendly, data-centric system. This move is designed to lighten the compliance load for businesses, inviting stakeholder feedback until May 15. Moreover, the Ministry is also evaluating incorporation guidelines to make starting a company smoother and less cumbersome.
The Sykkuno cheating scandal began gaining traction on April 10 after a content creator publicly shared her experience, accusing the streamer of manipulative behaviour and of maintaining relationships with multiple women at the same time.
A mans unusual experiment of selling chai from a rented Rolls-Royce for Rs 1 lakh has gone viral on social media, drawing millions of views and reactions. Branded as Royal Chai, the setup offered a luxury tea experience complete with a red carpet and snacks, attracting curious customers. Despite earning Rs 88,400 against a total cost of Rs 1,08,000, resulting in a loss, the creator called it a successful experiment for the happiness and buzz it generated, with many online users praising the crea
IPL 2026 GT vs KKR head-to-head stats: The 25th match of IPL 2026 sees a contrast in momentum as Gujarat Titans (GT) host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Narendra Modi Stadium on April 17. GT enters the contest following back-to-back victories, currently holding the sixth spot on the points table with four points from four games. Conversely, KKR sits at the bottom with a solitary point, reeling from five consecutive outings without a win.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead a significant leadership conference for Central Armed Police Forces officers in May. This inaugural event in Delhi will focus on emerging internal security challenges. Senior officials from the CAPFs, along with Home Minister Amit Shah and NSA Ajit Doval, are expected to attend. The conference aims to synchronize efforts and strengthen national security responses.
A planned IVF consultation camp in Nepal faced cancellation when the medical regulatory board intervened, stopping two Indian doctors from proceeding. The Nepal Medical Council clarified that the practitioners lacked the necessary credentials and approvals to operate within its borders. Foreign medical professionals must navigate a registration process before engaging in any healthcare activities in Nepal.
Tamil Nadu elections are shaped by dominant caste blocs, including Vanniyars in the north, Gounders in the west, and Thevars in the south. Dalit and Nadar communities also hold significant sway in key pockets, influencing alliances and candidate selections across the state.

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