The Economic Times

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit India from February 27 to March 2, 2026, on his first official trip, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He will begin in Mumbai with business meetings and interactions with CEOs, investors and industry leaders, before heading to New Delhi for delegation-level talks with Modi at Hyderabad House.

Hugh Jackman, renowned for his diverse roles, shares a profound insight on aging. He acknowledges that with age comes increased awareness of failure, both in others and oneself. Jackman emphasizes that maintaining a childlike fearlessness is achieved by persisting, not by avoiding mistakes, but by continuing to move forward despite them.

Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, has reconstituted the three-member inquiry committee tasked with examining the grounds for the removal of Justice Yashwant Varma.

William Shakespeare's famous quote paints life as a grand play. People are actors, entering and exiting the world. Throughout their lives, individuals play many roles. This perspective shows how identities change with age and experience. It also reminds us that all phases of life are temporary. Understanding this fosters empathy for everyone's journey.

Bill Gates admitted to two affairs with Russian women at the town hall on Tuesday. He had an affair with a Russian bridge player who met me at bridge events, and one with a Russian nuclear physicist whom he met through business activities, the 70-year-old tech titan said. He denied his involvement in the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein and said he did nothing illicit.

Spencer Pratt's new memoir details a nightclub incident where he deliberately provoked Heidi Montag by engaging with multiple women, an act he now calls a pity party that nearly destroyed their relationship. Montag's swift response of changing her phone number underscored the deep hurt caused, though the couple ultimately reconciled, with Pratt framing the event as a pivotal learning moment.

Today's word of the day 'metonymy' is a rhetorical device in which a word associated with something is used to represent the thing itself. This 'Word of the Day' explores its Greek origin, classic examples from literature and media, and its everyday presence in headlines and conversation.

Nepal prepares for national elections on March 5. Nearly 19 million voters will choose a new assembly. Key issues include corruption and job creation. Foreign relations with India and China are also important. Prominent contenders for prime minister include Balendra Shah, K.P. Sharma Oli, Gagan Thapa, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The nation anticipates a significant political shift.

Garena Free Fire Max players can snag free in-game items using 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes, released regularly. These codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once. To claim rewards, visit the official redemption site, log in, and enter the code promptly before it expires.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appeared with his daughter Ju Ae at a military parade. They wore matching leather jackets, a symbol of leadership. This appearance fuels speculation that Ju Ae is being prepared as the next in line to lead North Korea. Her status has been elevated with recent public outings.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has completed the Full Dress Rehearsal for the upcoming Vayushakti 26 exercise at Pokhran, effectively validating all operational parameters, officials said on Thursday.

A 24-hour standoff between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh Police on a Shimla highway concluded early Thursday after a dramatic confrontation over the arrest of three Youth Congress activists. The dispute involved barricades, counter-FIRs, and midnight court appearances, ultimately ending with the Delhi team leaving with the accused after sharing a seizure memo.

Saudi Arabia has banned poultry and egg imports from 40 nations, including India. This move aims to protect public health and food safety. Some bans have been in place since 2004. The authority will review the list based on global health developments. Processed poultry products meeting health requirements are exempt.

An ISIS case accused in Mumbai claims two individuals posing as Army officers offered to drop his trial if he joined a covert operation. The court has sought responses from the NIA and police regarding this alleged impersonation and interference with justice. The accused refused entry and alerted authorities, leading to the individuals being taken to the police station.

Amalaki Ekadashi Feb 2026 Date: Amalaki Ekadashi falls on February 27, 2026, Friday. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, on Amalaki Ekadashi, devotees undertake strict fasts and offer prayers, believing it purifies sins and grants salvation. The Ekadashi begins tomorrow at 12.33 am and ends on 10.23 pm the same day.

Newly released Justice Department documents detail how Jeffrey Epstein cultivated relationships with Microsofts top executives, gaining access to internal discussions including CEO succession plans. The files outline his links to figures such as Bill Gates, Nathan Myhrvold and Reid Hoffman, and reveal how he leveraged those connections even after his 2009 conviction.

India and Germany are boosting climate adaptation efforts. A new German grant of up to 20 million Euros will support India's National Adaptation Plan. This funding will enhance resilience in forests, ecosystems, and biodiversity across key regions. The initiative focuses on ecosystem-based approaches and innovative financing. Both nations recognize adaptation as a crucial part of climate policy.

Voters in Manchester cast ballots Thursday in a key by-election. Labour leader Keir Starmer faces a challenge as polls indicate a close contest. The vote is seen as a test for Starmer following recent policy shifts and an ambassadorial appointment. Labour aims to present the election as a choice between their party and Reform UK.

Lunar Eclipse 2026 Time: Skywatchers will witness the first lunar eclipse of 2026 in the early hours of March 3, when the Moon will turn a striking copper-red colour. It will be visible in India and other Asian countries. The Sutak timings in India begin from 06:23 AM. You can observe a lunar eclipse without any special equipment.

A massive storm has left parts of the Northeast buried in snow and facing widespread power outages. Residents are struggling with unplowed streets and impassable conditions. Emergency crews are working around the clock to restore power and clear roads. The severe weather has impacted daily life, causing school closures and travel disruptions across several states.

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un indicated a willingness to improve ties with the United States. He stated that if Washington respects Pyongyang's nuclear status and ends its hostile policy, relations could improve. However, Kim declared South Korea remains his nation's most hostile enemy, permanently excluding Seoul from any dealings.

The U.S. plans to increase tariffs to 15% or higher for some countries, while maintaining current levels for China ahead of President Trump's visit. These new duties, replacing tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court, are compatible with existing trade deals and will target unfair practices like excess industrial capacity and forced labor.

The International Monetary Fund urged the United States to reduce its growing fiscal deficit, stating it's the most effective method to lower the current account and trade deficits. The IMF projects U.S. fiscal deficits to remain high, posing a growing stability risk to the global economy despite low sovereign stress risk.

CRM stock fell after Salesforce gave a weak future revenue forecast. Investors are worried about slow business software demand and heavy AI spending. Even though the company reported strong earnings and growth, the outlook disappointed the market. Salesforce is focusing on AI technology and long-term plans to increase revenue in the coming years.

Nvidia reported very strong earnings and its stock went up after the news. The company made record revenue and expects more growth next quarter. Its AI data center business is the biggest reason for this success. Experts say Nvidia is very important for the AI industry, and many big tech companies are spending heavily on AI, helping Nvidia grow.

A worker shared online that their job is very toxic and causing panic attacks, stress, and long work hours. They want to quit to protect their mental health but feel scared because the job market is tough. People advised them to plan carefully, keep applying for jobs, and take care of their health before making a final decision.

President Trump is working with big tech companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, xAI, Oracle, and OpenAI to make them provide their own electricity for AI data centers. The plan aims to protect Americans from rising energy bills while supporting AI growth. Some critics say the pledges may not be enough, but the administration hopes this will lower electricity costs.

Quote of the day by Anthony Bridgerton: Anthony Bridgerton's words highlight the importance of actions matching words. Flattery without follow-through lacks authenticity. This principle applies to all relationships, promoting accountability and honesty. The Netflix series Bridgerton, based on Julia Quinn's novels, explores these themes.

America has imposed new sanctions on Iran. These target individuals and companies involved in Iran's missile and drone programs. The move comes as the US presses Iran for a deal before nuclear talks. The sanctions aim to curb Iran's weapons capabilities and support for terrorism. This action signals continued pressure on Tehran regarding its nuclear ambitions.

J&K Polices ACB filed a disproportionate assets case against inspector Vijay Singh Choudhary, brother of deputy CM Surinder Choudhary. Searches in Jammu recovered incriminating documents. The deputy CM called the action revenge-driven, while investigation continues.

The Bengal assembly polls will not see any booth rationalisation. The total number of polling stations will be 80,738. Earlier, the Election Commission of India had directed poll officials to rationalise stations with over 1,200 voters. This move aimed to enhance voter accessibility. Polling stations will be set up in high-rise buildings across Bengal.

Two more suspects have been taken into custody by the National Investigation Agency in relation to the November 2025 explosion at Delhis Red Fort, bringing the total arrests in the alleged plot to eleven. Investigators allege that the pair provided arms to the primary accused.

Free hotel breakfast is becoming less common. Some hotels are charging for it or removing it completely to save money. Families and business travelers may need to pay extra or eat outside. High-end hotels are more likely to charge, while budget hotels still often offer it. Guests value free breakfast, but costs and hotel rules are changing.

Travis Kelce revealed he and Taylor Swift watched a hockey game together. They also celebrated Travis' father's birthday. Kelce mentioned experiencing a blizzard in Manhattan. The couple has been keeping a low profile since January. They are reportedly planning a wedding in Rhode Island in June. Travis proposed to Taylor in August 2025.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the Union government should accept West Bengals plea to rename the state as Bangla, pointing out that the Cabinet had already cleared a similar move for Kerala.

BJP president Nitin Nabin has labelled Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as the 'poster boy of negative politics'. Nabin accused Gandhi of having ties with anti-India and pro-Pakistan groups. He stated that the people, especially the youth, see through Gandhi's rhetoric. Nabin also referenced historical events involving Nehru and Indira Gandhi to support his claims.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin declared the upcoming assembly election a contest between Tamil Nadu and the NDA. He stressed that the state should be governed from Chennai, not Delhi. Stalin characterized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visits as politically motivated. He stated that the more the PM visits, the greater the NDA's electoral loss will be.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has launched a sharp attack on Rahul Gandhi and the Congress, accusing them of engaging in narrow, divisive politics that allegedly obstruct Indias development agenda. Union Minister Piyush Goyal claimed that Rahul Gandhi and his party are compromised, while the BJP further charged the Congress with corruption and serving the interests of anti-India elements.

Federal agents served court-approved search warrants at Los Angeles Unified School District offices and Superintendent Alberto Carvalhos home. The FBI confirmed the action but declined further remark as affidavits are sealed. The searches come amid lawsuits and scrutiny over LAUSDs handling of Proposition 28 arts education funds, attendance reporting questions, and other financial concerns. Carvalho, who has led the nations second-largest school district since 2022, has not been charged.

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday clarified that Class 10 (Madhyamik) admit cards can be submitted as supplementary documents, along with pass certificates, to verify a candidates date of birth and parentage during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal.

More than 3 million Americans quit jobs monthly, per recent labor data. The debate over one-day notice after bonus pay is exploding online. An employee asked if they should resign after bonus payout and skip the traditional two weeks notice. The answer is simple. In most at-will employment states, it is legal if the performance bonus policy requires active employment on payout date only. You keep earned money. But quitting after bonus can affect references and reputation. Always read your employ

The Election Commission of India will release the final voter list on February 28. Approximately 60 lakh names are currently under adjudication and will be marked as such. These names will not be counted initially but can be added later if cleared.

Kantar's global CEO highlights India's crucial role in the company's future. India is no longer just an emerging market but a core focus for innovation and growth. It serves as a live laboratory for consumer intelligence and a template for global expansion. Kantar is leveraging India for research, delivery, and analytics, with AI-powered tools developed there reshaping brand strategies.

All Union ministries are cataloguing reforms undertaken since 2024. These will be presented at upcoming Cabinet meetings. The exercise covers legislative, statutory, policy, and administrative changes. Measurable outcomes, including ease of doing business and living, will be assessed. This structured performance assessment consolidates previous reviews. The initiative aims to drive policy transformation and recalibrate governance priorities.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that approximately 1.2 crore names are expected to be removed from voter lists in Bengal. She expressed concern over the deletions, particularly those under the Special Intensive Revision. Banerjee inaugurated projects in her Bhabanipur constituency. The final voter rolls are scheduled for publication by the Election Commission of India on February 28.