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The Economic Times

National / The Economic Times

India, South Korea to jointly develop laser weapons, air defence systems

India and South Korea are set to collaborate on advanced defence technologies. Plans include joint development and production of next-generation weapon systems. This partnership aims to leverage Korea's technological prowess and India's manufacturing capabilities. Discussions focused on areas like maritime security and emerging technologies. Agreements were signed for directed energy weapons and self-propelled air defence systems.

20 May 2026 11:59 pm
KG Basin case: Supreme Court refuses to pause hearing for 'mediation'

The three companies wanted a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi to stop the hearing in the case till the mediation is over as they wanted attempt mediation for deciding the case.

20 May 2026 11:57 pm
Rahul targets PM, Shah; BJP chief says 'it is insult to people'

Rahul Gandhi labelled Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah as raitors for allegedly attacking the Constitution and handing over national assets to industrialists. Addressing a party meeting in Amethi, he refused to apologize for his remarks, which the BJP condemned as an insult to the nation and reflective of his frustration over electoral losses.

20 May 2026 11:54 pm
Where there's a will, there are funds to deal with urban challenges

Projects worth 15,000 crore across six states are being awarded to kick-start the Centre's 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund. These initiatives include water supply for villages, lake cleaning, and traffic congestion solutions. The funding model involves a 25% contribution from the Centre and states, with the remaining 50% sourced from municipal bonds, bank loans, and PPPs.

20 May 2026 11:51 pm
Psychology says women often feel the need to control everything at home and it is not OCD but generational mental load

The psychology behind women wanting things done a certain way often points to a deeper link between stress, mental load, anxiety and social expectations. While true Obsessive-compulsive disorder requires professional diagnosis, many everyday control behaviors are more closely connected to emotional overwhelm than to personality flaws.

20 May 2026 11:47 pm
India, Italy look to expand trade, defence ties amid Persian headwinds

India and Italy have elevated their relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced this major step. The two nations will hold annual meetings and boost defense and maritime security cooperation. Trade targets are set to increase significantly. Both countries are committed to combating terrorism and resolving global issues through dialogue.

20 May 2026 11:45 pm
Assam cabinet approves notification and implementation of Assam State Data Policy (ASDP) 2026

The Assam cabinet has approved the Assam State Data Policy 2026. This new policy replaces the 2022 version. A Centre for Data Management will be established. This agency will create a unified data repository for analytics and AI. Departments will systematically share data. This aims to drive innovation for departments and citizens.

20 May 2026 11:43 pm
OpenAI IPO filing could come before SpaceX goes public: Will Sam Altman beat Elon Musk and Anthropic in the biggest AI and space market race of 2026? Complete details on Wall Streets largest IPO wave

OpenAI IPO: Wall Street is entering its biggest IPO wave since 2022. OpenAI, SpaceX, Anthropic, Shein, and Kunlunxin could together raise nearly $200 billion. OpenAI may file for its IPO before SpaceX goes public. That changes the entire AI market race. Investors are now watching Sam Altman, Elon Musk, and Anthropic more closely than ever. These mega IPOs could reshape Nvidia, Microsoft, Nasdaq, AI stocks, tech valuations, and global markets. The battle is no longer only about innovation. It is

20 May 2026 11:36 pm
Former Cuban President Raul Castro charged with murder in US

Former Cuban President Raul Castro faces murder charges in the United States. This indictment stems from a 1996 incident where Cuban jets shot down exile planes. The US is increasing pressure on Cuba's government. A ceremony in Miami honors victims of the 1996 event. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio offers aid to Cuba.

20 May 2026 11:31 pm
Quote of the day by Martin Luther King Jr.: 'The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to...' - inspiring lessons on education, critical thinking and why character matters more than grades by the Baptist minister and activist

Quote of the day by Martin Luther King Jr.: He emphasized that true education cultivates both intensive and critical thinking, alongside strong character. This dual focus is crucial in today's information-saturated world, where intelligence must be paired with honesty and empathy to foster a just society and prevent social harm.

20 May 2026 11:17 pm
Delhi HC dismisses PIL to deregister AAP, disqualify Arvind Kejriwal

The Delhi High Court has rejected a plea to deregister the Aam Aadmi Party and disqualify its leaders. The court found the petition lacked merit. Leaders had boycotted proceedings in the liquor policy case. The court stated the Election Commission cannot deregister a party. Contempt proceedings are underway for the leaders' conduct.

20 May 2026 11:12 pm
CBI books former Navy captain in disproportionate assets case

The CBI has filed an FIR against a former Indian Navy captain for allegedly amassing disproportionate assets exceeding Rs 3 crore. During his service, including sensitive postings, the officer and his family's assets reportedly grew significantly between 2010 and 2020. The agency alleges a substantial portion of these assets cannot be explained by known income sources.

20 May 2026 10:52 pm
GRSE launches first next-gen offshore patrol vessel for Indian Navy

Defence PSU GRSE launched Sanghamitra, the first of four next-generation offshore patrol vessels for the Indian Navy. The vessel is larger and more capable than conventional patrol vessels. It features enhanced endurance and firepower. The ship can operate in coastal waters for asset protection and interdiction operations. It will also undertake surveillance and mine warfare missions.

20 May 2026 10:46 pm
Iran's threat to Hormuz submarine cables

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has threatened to impose permits on submarine fiber-optic cables passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This move could disrupt global data flow, impacting financial transactions and government communications. While some countries have alternative routes, Qatar, hosting a key cable terminal, faces significant impact. Repairing damaged cables could become challenging due to potential Iranian interference.

20 May 2026 10:43 pm
Tripura moves to build Northeast AVGC-XR hub

Tripura convened a stakeholder consultation for its draft AVGC-XR Policy, aiming to foster creativity, innovation, and digital employment. Senior officials and industry experts discussed talent development, entrepreneurship, and content creation. The policy seeks to position Tripura as an AVGC-XR hub, synergizing with existing state initiatives for economic growth.

20 May 2026 10:28 pm
SpaceX Starship V3 launch set this week: How to watch next-gen mega rocket test

SpaceX is getting ready to launch Starship Version 3, the next-generation spacecraft designed for Moon and Mars missions under NASAs Artemis program. The test flight marks the first significant launch of 2026 and introduces a redesigned rocket with increased size, thrust, and upgraded Raptor engines. The mission will analyze booster recovery systems, heat shield performance, and satellite deployment capabilities. It comes amid delays in development and growing expectations for future crewed luna

20 May 2026 9:52 pm
Xi plays a masterful hand amid Trumps chaos and Putins decline

Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in China, projecting unity against US dominance. They signed agreements and criticized US defense policies. However, Russia's economic dependence on China is evident, while China carefully manages its global interests. This summit highlights China's strategic balancing act between the US and Russia.

20 May 2026 9:47 pm
US Treasury yields reach highest levels since 2007 here's how it will change the way Americans borrow, spend and invest

High Treasury yields' impact on consumer finances: Treasury yields are reaching multiyear highs, impacting borrowing costs, investments, and consumer confidence. This rise, driven by inflation fears and geopolitical concerns, means higher mortgage rates and increased government debt expenses.

20 May 2026 9:45 pm
Quote of the day by German-born painter Hans Hofmann: The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so Timeless warning about noise, stress and distraction is suddenly going viral among fans of minimalism and modern creativity

Quote of the day: Great quotes endure because they express complex human experiences in just a few memorable words. Hans Hofmanns statement continues to resonate online because it speaks to something timeless: the search for clarity in an increasingly chaotic world.

20 May 2026 9:39 pm
African Proverb of the Day: A womans strength is Life lessons on communication, social connection, perception and why your voice has power

African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of A womans strength is a multitude of words. The saying reflects how communication, expression, and spoken wisdom are often seen as powerful tools through which a woman influences her family and community. It suggests that words carry emotional strength, guidance, and authority, shaping relationships, resolving conflicts, and passing on knowledge.

20 May 2026 9:29 pm
Parishram hi safalta ki kunji hai: Italian PM Meloni flaunts Hindi to highlight India-Italy ties

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the deepening India-Italy relationship during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. The two nations have elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership. Discussions focused on boosting bilateral trade to 20 billion euros by 2029 and expanding cooperation in technology and defense. The visit marks a significant milestone in bilateral engagement.

20 May 2026 9:05 pm
Anti-encroachment drive in Mumbai's Bandra slum turns violent; locals hurl stones, police lathi-charge

A demolition drive in Mumbai's Bandra slum turned violent. Authorities razed an illegal religious structure. Local residents protested, leading to clashes with police. Stone-pelting occurred, injuring a police constable. Several people were detained. The operation aims to clear encroached railway land near Bandra railway station.

20 May 2026 9:03 pm
African proverb of the day: 'He who runs after good fortune runs away from...' - thought-provoking life lessons on the dark side of chasing wealth and ambition and why more money doesn't always mean more happiness and peace

African proverb of the day: Many chase success, but this can lead to losing peace. Modern life pressures people to achieve more, often at the cost of well-being. Traditional wisdom reminds us that inner peace and contentment are vital. This proverb highlights the importance of balance and appreciating the present moment. True fulfillment comes from within, not just material gains.

20 May 2026 9:01 pm
Manav Shah makes history for IGPL by qualifying for US Open

Manav Shah has made history by qualifying for the 2026 US Open. He is the first player from the IGPL to achieve this milestone. Shah secured his spot at the demanding final qualifying event in Dallas. This achievement marks a significant moment for Indian-origin golfers globally. Shah's journey includes previous victories and consistent performances on various tours.

20 May 2026 9:01 pm
Congress to have 2 ministers in Tamil Nadu, to join Tamil Nadu cabinet after 59 yrs

The Congress party is set to join the Tamil Nadu cabinet after a 59-year hiatus. Two Congress MLAs, Rajesh Kumar and P Viswanathan, will be sworn in as ministers on Thursday. This marks a significant return for the party to the state government.

20 May 2026 8:58 pm
Charlie Kirk post controversy: Tennessee man bags $835,000 settlement after he was sent jail Facebook post

Many people across the U.S. lost their jobs over social media comments about Kirks death, Larry Busharts case stood out as a rare instance in which such online speech led to criminal prosecution.

20 May 2026 8:58 pm
BJPs metro ride a photo-op, will they use public transport daily, asks Shivakumar

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar challenged BJP leaders to use public transport daily, not just for photo opportunities. He highlighted the success of Congress's five guarantee schemes, stating they have become a national model. Shivakumar also defended the cultural significance of the mangalya and asserted the government has delivered on its promises, laying the foundation for a world-class Bengaluru.

20 May 2026 8:53 pm
Using Zubeen Garg's death during polls backfired on Cong-led oppn: Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted that opposition parties' attempts to politicize the death of singer Zubeen Garg proved unsuccessful in the recent assembly elections. He noted that the public disapproved of using Garg's name for political gain. Sarma visited the Zubeen Khetra memorial site to review development work. The BJP-led NDA secured a significant victory in the polls.

20 May 2026 8:37 pm
MLB taps Reliances RISE to pitch Baseball in India, Mumbai event planned in October

Major League Baseball is partnering with RISE Worldwide to expand baseball's reach in India, targeting the nation's young sports enthusiasts. This collaboration will involve marketing, social media, and commercial efforts, highlighted by a live baseball event in Mumbai in October 2026. The initiative aims to deepen MLB's presence in India, a market seen as crucial for its international growth strategy.

20 May 2026 7:58 pm
A flash of blue light just solved one of drug development's biggest puzzles, here's all about it

Scientists at the University of Mnster report a major advance in light-powered chemistry for housane molecules on May 20, 2026. Using photocatalytic light energy, they created highly strained housane structures once considered extremely difficult to synthesize. This breakthrough in photocatalytic light chemistry and molecular engineering improves drug discovery and advanced material design. The method reduces harsh conditions and unwanted byproducts. It strengthens drug development innovation an

20 May 2026 7:57 pm
Quote of the day by Carl Rogers: 'We think we listen, but very rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy. Yet...' - life lessons on impact of active listening on relationships and why feeling heard changes lives by pioneer of person-centered therapy

Quote of the day by Carl Rogers: He highlights active listening as a crucial, yet often overlooked, skill in relationships. True understanding requires empathy and presence, going beyond simply hearing words to grasping underlying emotions. This potent force for change builds trust, reduces conflict, and fosters emotional safety, ultimately leading to deeper connections and personal growth.

20 May 2026 7:56 pm
India, Estonia have potential to boost ties in AI, defence tech; New Delhi can help end Ukraine war: Estonian foreign minister

Estonia sees strong potential for India ties. Minister Margus Tsahkna invites Indian businesses to explore Estonia's tech advancements. He believes India can help end the Russia-Ukraine conflict and rebuild Ukraine. Estonia offers a gateway to the EU market through the India-EU free trade agreement. Merchandise and services trade between the nations is growing.

20 May 2026 7:55 pm
Russia approves law permitting drones to be shot down over oil and gas rigs in Caspian Sea, Ifx reports

Russia's second-largest oil producer Lukoil extracts oil at two major projects in the Caspian Sea - the Filanovsky and Korchagin fields, which have been repeatedly attacked by Ukrainian drones.

20 May 2026 7:54 pm
Quote of the Day by Legendary American actor Jack Nicholson: Well, a girlfriend once told me never to Inspiring lessons on relationships, disagreement, attachment and why you only fight with people you love by the award-winning icon known for his powerful performances in Hollywood cinema

Quote of the Day by Jack Nicholson: Jack Nicholsons quote, Well, a girlfriend once told me never to fight with anybody you don't love, explores the emotional connection between love and conflict in relationships. The quote suggests that disagreements and arguments often carry deeper meaning only when there is genuine emotional attachment or love involved. It highlights that people tend to invest their emotions, time, and energy into conflicts only with those they truly care about.

20 May 2026 7:46 pm
The real meaning of Horn OK Please on Indian trucks may surprise you

Indian trucks display 'Horn OK Please' a common sight on highways. This phrase has a history, possibly linked to World War II kerosene trucks or a detergent brand advertisement. Today, it is more than a road instruction. It represents the vibrant culture of Indian trucking.

20 May 2026 7:43 pm