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The Economic Times

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US preparing for a surprise ground offensive like Venezuela in Iran, and how to get $10 mn reward for info on Iran new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei? Here's which Iranian officials will US target next

US preparing for a surprise ground offensive like Venezuela in Iran, and how to get $10 million reward for info on Iran new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei? The US is sending 2,500 Marines and naval ships to the Middle East while offering a reward for intelligence on Iranian leaders.

14 Mar 2026 1:56 am
Congress quietly updated a Social Security rule that no one noticed how it could affect retirees

Social Security rule for retirees explained: A new law, the Social Security Fairness Act, is boosting benefits for public sector workers. This change removes penalties for those with pensions from jobs not paying into Social Security. Millions are already receiving retroactive payments. Retirees with public pensions should check their Social Security accounts for potential extra money in 2026.

14 Mar 2026 1:21 am
Cuba says it has opened talks with US amid oil blockade

Cuba has embarked on a pivotal conversation with the U.S. government, as President Miguel Diaz-Canel has announced that their talks are focused on mending strained relations. Amidst a critical economic downturn highlighted by frequent power outages and fuel shortages, Cuba is striving for greater energy self-sufficiency.

14 Mar 2026 1:17 am
Why is silver price down by 3.3% and gold by 0.5%, and will precious metals continue to drop or rise again? Analysts insights and market outlook. Here's what should investors do now

Why is silver price down by 3.3% and gold by 0.5%, and will precious metals continue to drop or rise again? Gold and silver prices moved lower this week as the dollar gained strength and interest rate cut expectations weakened due to inflation data and geopolitical tensions.

14 Mar 2026 1:15 am
Parliament Watch: EU rules challenge Indian exporters; Over 1 lakh benefit from RoDTEP in FY26; Indias imports from China slow

Indian exporters navigate the complexities of European Union regulations, which pose considerable hurdles. Fortunately, the RoDTEP scheme has emerged as a beacon of hope, granting significant relief to over 110,000 exporters.

14 Mar 2026 12:47 am
Why up to 85% of your Social Security could be taxed, and retirees often miss it

Social Security Taxes 2026: Over 67 million Americans receive Social Security benefits, yet many retirees do not know up to 85% of their Social Security income can be taxed in 2026. The IRS uses a formula called combined income to decide the taxable share. If income crosses $34,000 for singles or $44,000 for couples, taxes apply. Rising COLA increases, interest income, and retirement withdrawals are quietly pushing more retirees above these long-frozen IRS thresholds.

14 Mar 2026 12:44 am
Trump says US will hit Iran 'very hard' after easing sanctions on Russian oil

After nearly two weeks of war, 2,000 people have been killed, most of them in Iran, but many also in Lebanon and a growing number in the Gulf, which has for the first time in decades of Middle East conflicts found itself on the front line. Several million people have been displaced from their homes. As Israeli warplanes pounded Beirut's suburbs with air strikes, Lebanon's interior minister said authorities were unable to accommodate the hundreds of thousands of people who have sought refuge in t

14 Mar 2026 12:40 am
India protects key sectors under 'powerful' US trade deal, says Piyush Goyal

India's trade pact with the U.S. stands firm, safeguarding critical areas such as agriculture and dairy. This collaboration promises mutual advantages, enhancing technology access while propelling India towards its goal of becoming a global data hub. Additionally, the India-UK free trade agreement is anticipated to launch within a month, following a quick ratification by the UK Parliament.

14 Mar 2026 12:31 am
India and World Bank sign $300 million deal for Haryana clean air plan

Under the programme, Haryana will expand its air-quality monitoring network and develop a decision-support system to improve the use of data in pollution management and policy formulation.The programme also aims to mobilise about $127 million in private capital for investments across sectors such as transport, energy and industry.

13 Mar 2026 11:52 pm
Jawaharlal Nehru once said Korea war fueled inflation in India: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a programme in Guwahati, criticized Congress for spreading rumors amidst global economic crises. He highlighted the BJP government's efforts to strengthen India's energy infrastructure and reduce fuel dependence, alongside significant farm support and subsidies to shield farmers from international shocks.

13 Mar 2026 11:48 pm
Quote of the Day by Matthew McConaughey: 'Life is a series of commas, not periods'Top quotes by the iconic 'How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days' actor

Matthew McConaughey's perspective highlights that life is a continuous journey of commas, not definitive periods. His philosophy emphasizes ongoing growth, learning from experiences, and embracing new opportunities rather than viewing events as final endings. This outlook encourages a forward-moving approach to life's unfolding narrative.

13 Mar 2026 11:47 pm
Home Ministry to review security protocols for VIPs

Following an attack on Farooq Abdullah, the Union Home Ministry will review security protocols for all VIPs under central cover. Chaired by Amit Shah, the meeting included top security officials and comes as assembly elections approach in five states. The review also considered threats from the Middle East conflict.

13 Mar 2026 11:40 pm
Families may get $1,330 checks under Robin Hood Bill, but the rich are furious

Up to $1,330 checks for 460,000 families could come from Washingtons proposed millionaires tax bill. The plan adds a 9.9% tax on income above $1 million. Lawmakers say the tax could raise $3.5$4 billion yearly. That money would expand the Working Families Tax Credit and cut sales taxes on essentials. Supporters say the Robin Hood tax plan helps middle-class families. Critics warn the Washington income tax proposal may face constitutional challenges.

13 Mar 2026 11:39 pm
Malabar Group Chairman conferred Maharashtrian of the Year Award 2026 by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis

M.P. Ahammad, Chairman, Malabar Group, has been honoured with the prestigious Business Bhushan Award at the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards 2026, in recognition of his visionary leadership and pivotal role in transforming the global jewellery retail landscape and society at large.

13 Mar 2026 11:39 pm
Stolen Indian idols abroad: Why global rules on sacred antiquities must change

With great pride, the Ashmolean Museum has repatriated a 16th-century bronze idol back to its homeland, India. This significant gesture shines a spotlight on countless other Indian idols residing in foreign institutions, raising awareness around the pressing issue of cultural heritage rights.

13 Mar 2026 11:37 pm
Blood pacts of Kutch: When Charan oaths ruled trade and kings

In the stark expanses of Kutch, the Charans flourished as cultural stewards and powerful mediators of tradition. These elite bards wove tales of lineage and lore, wielding their lyrical prowess to affirm the legitimacy of rulers and ensure the enforcement of solemn agreements through divine oaths.

13 Mar 2026 11:33 pm
2 Indians killed, 10 injured in drone attack on Oman's industrial hub of Sohar

Iran war Indian casualties: These latest casualties brought the total number of Indian fatalities in the West Asia conflict to five. While the strike in Oman marked the first deaths on land, three Indian sailors have previously been killed in attacks on merchant vessels since the conflict erupted on February 28.

13 Mar 2026 11:22 pm
Over Rs 15k cr disbursed to exporters till December 25 this fiscal under duty refund scheme RoDTEP

In a significant move for exporters, India's government has rolled out more than Rs 15,700 crore through the RoDTEP initiative this year, benefitting over 1.11 lakh businesses.

13 Mar 2026 11:05 pm
Book of the Day: The Poisonwood Bible Barbara Kingsolvers sweeping novel of faith, family and colonial history

Book of the Day: Barbara Kingsolvers storytelling reminds readers that history is not just shaped by governments and leaders but also by the lives of ordinary families navigating unfamiliar worlds.

13 Mar 2026 11:04 pm
Quote of the day by Alistair MacLean: 'To all things an end. To every night a dawn. Even to longest night when...' - lessons on resilience and overcoming hard times by The Guns of Navarone and Where Eagles Dare author

Quote of the day by Alistair MacLean: Renowned thriller author Alistair MacLean's powerful quote, To all things an end. To every night a dawn, offers enduring hope and resilience. His words remind us that even the longest nights eventually yield to a new day, a message deeply rooted in his own wartime experiences and prolific writing career.

13 Mar 2026 10:58 pm
India, UK trade pact may come into effect in one month from now: Piyush Goyal

India and the UK, on July 24 last year, signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) under which 99 per cent of Indian exports will enter the British market at zero duty, while tariffs on British products, such as cars and whisky, will be reduced in India.

13 Mar 2026 10:57 pm
Indias imports from China slowed overtime, exports grow faster: Govt tells Parliament

India's imports from China are slowing, with exports growing faster this fiscal year. The government highlighted reduced dependency on Chinese imports in sectors like mobile phones, while also detailing non-tariff barriers faced by Indian exporters to the EU and the benefits of the RoDTEP scheme.

13 Mar 2026 10:56 pm
Americans could get $3,000 checks under new bill see who qualifies

Americans Could Receive $3,000 Check: About 938 U.S. billionaires could fund a major relief plan. Under a new bill from Bernie Sanders and Ro Khanna, Americans could receive a $3,000 check through a 5% billionaire wealth tax. The proposal targets households earning $150,000 or less. A family of four could receive $12,000. Lawmakers estimate $4.4 trillion in revenue over 10 years. The bill aims to reduce wealth inequality while supporting healthcare, childcare, and housing programs.

13 Mar 2026 10:53 pm
Narendra Modi psychologically finished, govt gave away Indias energy security: Rahul Gandhi on US trade deal

Rahul Gandhi boldly proclaimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is psychologically out of the game, sharply critiquing the administration for its lack of gains from the interim trade deal with the US. He committed to initiating a caste census with the Congress party, ensuring representation for Dalits, Adivasis, backward classes, and minorities in the governance of India.

13 Mar 2026 10:41 pm
Cathie Wood predicts oil could crash 50% even as Strait of Hormuz crisis shakes markets amid Iran war

Cathie Wood Oil Price Forecast: Oil markets jumped nearly 50% during the Strait of Hormuz crisis, with WTI crude touching almost $120 before easing. Yet Cathie Wood warns the long-term outlook could flip. She says electric vehicles, autonomous mobility, and falling oil demand may push crude prices toward $50 per barrel in the next decade. Short-term war shocks lift prices. But technology could reshape global energy markets and trigger a deeper oil price decline.

13 Mar 2026 9:52 pm
New IRS update could impact millions filing taxes this year - what you should know

IRS tax update 2026:Millions of Americans filing taxes will find the IRS's updated online withholding estimator crucial. Reflecting recent tax law changes, including new deductions and credits for workers and seniors, the tool helps adjust paycheck deductions. This aims to prevent unexpected tax bills and ensure taxpayers keep more of their earnings throughout the year.

13 Mar 2026 9:52 pm
US, India moving very close to finalising critical minerals agreement: Envoy Sergio Gor

The United States and India are close to finalizing a critical minerals agreement. A significant announcement is anticipated in the coming months. This pact aims to secure supply chains for advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies. The US envoy highlighted recent breakthroughs in trade, technology, and strategic coordination, underscoring a growing partnership.

13 Mar 2026 9:44 pm
Founder earning 2 lakh from business says job may offer a better life than entrepreneurship

A hardware business owner challenges the popular 'hustle culture'. Despite earning more than their previous job, they miss the structured environment and professional interactions. The entrepreneur finds dealing with uneducated suppliers and unpredictable behavior mentally exhausting. They suggest that for some, a traditional job offers a better quality of life than entrepreneurship.

13 Mar 2026 9:41 pm
Word of the Day: Loquacious

Loquacious describes someone who talks a lot, sometimes so much that they dominate conversations. Unlike casual words like chatty or talkative, it often hints at eloquence or even overwhelming speech. Loquacious people can keep discussions flowing, but they may unintentionally overshadow others. Whether in social, professional, or literary contexts, loquacious is a versatile word worth adding to your arsenal.

13 Mar 2026 9:40 pm
Iran arranges special transport to send sailors back from India

Iran is coordinating special flights for around 180 Indian sailors, mainly departing from Kochi. Tragically, this mission also includes returning the remains of those lost when a US submarine sank their vessel near Sri Lanka. This comes in light of the unfortunate incident with the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena.

13 Mar 2026 9:35 pm
This Uber engineer became senior director in 6 years and now earns three times his starting salary

Madan Thangavelu, a senior director at Uber, achieved a remarkable promotion from senior software engineer to senior director in just six years. He attributes his rapid ascent to proactively taking on responsibilities beyond his role, building strong relationships with managers, and understanding the critical importance of timing when presenting innovative ideas to the organization.

13 Mar 2026 8:54 pm
Temptation Island Season 10 Release Date announced: Meet the Four couples testing their love on Netflix

Temptation Island Season 10 will once again centre on four couples who travel to a tropical destination to test the strength of their relationships. As part of the experiment, the partners are separated and placed in villas with a group of singles whose presence is meant to challenge their commitment, pushing participants to confront insecurities and questions about their relationships.

13 Mar 2026 8:47 pm
Quote of the day by Lin Yutang: 'Sometimes it is more important to discover what one cannot do, than what...' lessons on self-awareness, self-reflection and knowing personal limits by The Importance of Living author

Quote of the day by Lin Yutang: Lin Yutang's quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal limitations for self-awareness and growth. Understanding what one cannot do guides choices, conserves energy, and fosters realistic goals, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment and success. This perspective encourages humility and better collaboration by acknowledging boundaries.

13 Mar 2026 8:44 pm
US job openings rise to a better-than-expected 7 million despite sluggish labor market

In January, American job openings surged to nearly 7 million, yet the actual pace of hiring has noticeably dwindled. This paradox points toward a hiring recession in the United States. Although layoffs remain low, job seekers are encountering hurdles. Factors such as elevated interest rates, uncertain policies, and the impact of artificial intelligence are shaping the labor market landscape.

13 Mar 2026 8:44 pm
Quote of the day by Dustin Hoffman: Life stinks, but that doesn't mean you don't enjoy it.

Life stinks, but that doesn't mean you don't enjoy it the quote by Dustin Hoffman reflects a realistic yet optimistic view of life. Hoffman, an acclaimed actor popular for movies like The Graduate, Kramer vs. Kramer, and Rain Man, suggests that life includes both struggles and joyful moments. His words remind us that challenges, disappointments, and setbacks are unavoidable parts of the human experience. However, they should not prevent people from appreciating happiness, relationships, and pers

13 Mar 2026 8:40 pm
Middle East War: Trump says its an honor to kill Iranian military leaders

President Donald Trump said Friday he feels honored to be killing Iran's leadership, calling them deranged scumbags. We have unparalleled firepower, unlimited ammunition, and plenty of time -- Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today, Trump posted on Truth Social.

13 Mar 2026 8:39 pm
Namami Gange failed to deliver expected results in Uttarakhand: CAG report

A CAG report reveals the Namami Gange program failed in Uttarakhand. Implementing agencies showed major flaws. Sewage treatment plants had defective designs and poor maintenance. Drains discharging into the Ganga were not tapped. Waste was dumped near rivers. Funds were underutilized. Local communities were not involved. This led to infrastructure not being used.

13 Mar 2026 8:33 pm
The economics of bombing Iran is getting tough for America

Two weeks into Operation Epic Fury, the US faces a financially punishing war against Iran. Billions are being spent on advanced munitions, depleting stockpiles and prompting a request for tens of billions more. The high cost of precision weapons and the imbalance with cheaper Iranian drones present a significant economic challenge.

13 Mar 2026 8:32 pm