The Economic Times

The Australian sharemarket saw gains on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. BHP, the world's largest listed miner, reached a record high after reporting strong first-half results. This boosted the S&P/ASX 200 index. Investors are now watching for upcoming jobs data and signals on iron ore demand. Several Asian markets were closed for Lunar New Year.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared climate change an urgent governance challenge, highlighting the direct impact of extreme weather on coastal cities like Mumbai. He called for increased investment, stronger implementation, and global partnerships to address the issue, emphasizing India's rapid shift towards renewable energy and sustainable practices.

In Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur, a 51-year-old Kargil war veteran allegedly shot his wife and teen son and then jumped in front of a train. According to the neighbours, the couple had a fight on Sunday night. Police sources said he even took a loan of Rs 12 lakh for his daughter's marriage and for the construction of his house.

HBSE Admit Cards 2026: HBSE Haryana Board exams for Class 10 and 12 are approaching. Admit cards are now available on the official website. Regular students can collect theirs from schools. Private and open school candidates can download their hall tickets online. Students must ensure they have a coloured printout for entry.

Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan is urging for fairness in intergovernmental fiscal arrangements. He said that the state has maintained a strong public service delivery and has continued to prioritise welfare, education and public services.

Yuvraj Samra of Canada achieved a historic feat by scoring a century against New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Chennai. His 58-ball knock made him the youngest player to score a hundred in the tournament's history. This remarkable innings highlighted Canada's growing presence in international cricket.

Pernicious means very harmful or damaging, usually in a gradual or subtle way. This word captures quiet, creeping harm that causes serious damage over time. It focuses on impact, not intent. Pernicious influences quietly undermine or corrupt. The word appears in journalism and literature to describe long-term harmful consequences. It emphasizes danger and lasting damage.

2026 Winter Olympics Men's freestyle skiing: The stage is set at the Livigno Snow Park in Valtellina for the Mens Freeski Big Air Final, one of the most high-stakes and visually spectacular events of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. After a dramatic qualification round on February 15, the worlds elite freeskiers are ready to launch off massive kickers to showcase gravity-defying rotations and never-before-seen tricks.

Jammu and Kashmir's public sector landscape reveals a challenging picture: 24 out of 44 PSUs are operating at a loss, with four completely non-functional. The UT government is actively exploring strategies to revitalize these struggling entities and enhance their performance. While some, like J-K Bank, are profitable, many others face significant financial hurdles.

As Lunar New Year arrives, millions globally prepare for a fresh start, marked by family gatherings and the welcoming of the Year of the Horse in 2026. This 15-day festival, also known as the Spring Festival, emphasizes traditions like home cleaning, new clothes, and exchanging wishes for prosperity and happiness.

Tarique Rahman, the chief of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), will take the oath as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh today. Tarique Rahman is the son of Ziaur Rahman and Khalida Zia. Rahman was jailed for corruption cases and was in exile in London for around 17 years. Asked about India and Bangladesh ties, Tarique Rahman said he wants a relationship of mutual respect and mutual understanding between the two countries.

In an important diplomatic move, Darpan Jain, a senior IAS officer, will spearhead India's delegation in Washington next week. This visit will focus on cementing the legal framework of the proposed India-US Interim Trade Agreement as negotiations transition into the drafting phase. The trip is crucial for solidifying a partnership that promises mutual trade benefits and economic collaboration.

Chinese Zodiac 2026: Chinese New Year 2026 marks the arrival of the Year of the Fire Horse. This period symbolises courage, determination and bold action. You may notice swift progress in your career and positive financial growth. Zodiac signs such as the Dragon, Horse, Tiger, Snake, Rat and Monkey are particularly well placed to benefit. Embrace change, take sensible and calculated risks, and step confidently into a rewarding new chapter.

'Rockstar' Anirudh Ravichander announced the first show of his highly anticipated XV Tour in Hyderabad. Celebrating a monumental 15 Years With You, the Anirudh's 2026 concert might just be one of the biggest musical event of the year.

Google's doodle celebrates the thrilling men's freestyle skiing big air final at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Livigno. American Mac Forehand leads the charge, with defending champion Birk Ruud also a strong contender. Expect spectacular jumps and intense competition as athletes vie for Olympic glory.

Russia is deliberately targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts and freezing conditions for civilians. This kilowatt war aims to force submission and project inevitable victory, despite significant Russian losses and economic strain. The US and Europe must increase pressure by bolstering Ukraine's air defenses and further restricting Russian oil revenue to achieve a lasting peace.

HBSE exam date sheets: The Board of School Education, Haryana (BSEH), Bhiwani, date sheets for Class 10 and 12 board examinations have been released. Candidates due to take the exams will be able to download the BSEH hall tickets from the official website bseh.org.in. The HBSE board exams will be conducted from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm each day.

Bangladesh Prime Minister swearing in: Tarique Rahman is set to take over from an interim government that has steered the country of 170 million people for 18 months since the autocratic government of Sheikh Hasina was overthrown.

President Donald Trump has again denied any association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating he has been exonerated and has othing to do with him. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that Trump expelled Epstein from Mar-a-Lago years ago, calling him a creep. Trump claims he cut ties with Epstein in the early 2000s.

Veteran actor Neena Gupta has shared new, intimate details about her journey as a single mother, revealing that while cricket legend Vivian Richards supported her decision to have their child, she consciously chose to raise Masaba Gupta without any financial assistance from him.

Albert Einstein, a brilliant physicist, revolutionized our understanding of the universe with his theory of relativity and the iconic E=mc equation. His groundbreaking work earned him a Nobel Prize and laid foundations for modern physics. Beyond science, Einstein championed peace and civil rights, leaving a legacy of intellectual courage and boundless imagination that continues to inspire.

Tragedy struck a family in Kollam after two members died. They had dined at a restaurant in Vizhinjam. Two other family members are receiving treatment. Police have sealed the restaurant. Food safety officials will inspect the premises. Hundreds ate at the restaurant without issue.

Bangladesh is transitioning to a new political era with the BNP's victory. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will step down as Chief Adviser. His future role remains undefined, though some suggest advisory capacities. Yunus himself expresses no political interest, aiming to return to his social business work. The new government faces significant challenges ahead.

Few schools in Mohali found themselves on high alert after receiving bomb threat emails, which also mentioned Fortis Hospital. The police launched searches of both the schools and the hospital. Security protocols were already strict at Fortis Hospital due to the recent admission of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

UP Board Exam Class 10, 12 date 2026: The Uttar Pradesh Board of High School and Intermediate Education (UPMSP) will begin the Class 10 and 12 Board examinations from February 18, Wednesday. The morning shift will be from 8:30 AM to 11:45 AM, while the afternoon shift is scheduled from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM and the exam will be conducted in paper-pen mode.

A fatal stabbing spree near a Merrylands train station has left one man dead and two others critically injured. Police arrested a suspect shortly after the incident, with the crime scene spanning 50 metres. The motive remains unknown, and the alleged offender has a history of petty crime and mental health issues.

Sahil Dhanashree Accident: A fatal road crash in Dwarka has sparked outrage across the coutry. A 23-year-old man died after a minor allegedly drove an SUV recklessly for social media reels. Sahil Dhanashree's mother allege that driver was underage and unlicensed. The victim's mother has demanded justice and accountability for the vehicle owner.

Outgoing interim chief Muhammad Yunus asserted Bangladesh's restored foreign policy pillars of sovereignty and national interests during his farewell address. His remarks highlighted Bangladesh's regional economic relevance and maritime connectivity, as Dhaka prepares for a political transition with a new BNP-led government set to assume office.

UP CM Adityanath said the foundation stone of the semiconductor unit in Gautam Buddh Nagar would be laid on February 21, terming it a significant step towards making the state a hub for high-technology manufacturing.

Pythagoras, a Greek philosopher, believed friends are vital companions on life's journey. They offer support through challenges, helping each other persevere towards a happier existence. This ancient wisdom remains relevant today, providing emotional stability and motivation. True friendship involves mutual aid and a shared commitment to personal growth and well-being.

Ramadan 2026 date: Ramadan 2026 in India is expected to begin either on February 18 or 19, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. Fasting hours are expected to be shorter, around 12-14 hours daily, due to the timing near the spring equinox. During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide observe a fast from dawn to sunset.

The Belt and Roads resurgence doesnt demonstrate that Chinas economic model is unstoppable. But it does show that Beijing isnt retreating from global engagement. It is simply adapting.

A non-bailable warrant has been issued against actress Ameesha Patel by a Moradabad court for failing to appear in a 2017 wedding event dispute. The case involves an event organizer's complaint of non-performance, a partial refund, and a bounced cheque. Patel claims the matter was settled years ago.

Class 10, 12 CBSE exams: The Class 10 and 12 CBSE board examinations will begin from today and the Board has issued a set of guidelines for students to follow. No entry will be allowed for students after 10 AM, and they are not allowed to carry mobiles, calculators and other electronic devices. Students must come in their school uniforms and carry their admit cards too.

A US federal judge has ordered the National Park Service to put back a slavery exhibit in Philadelphia. The exhibit was removed following claims of anti-American ideology. The judge stated the government cannot erase historical accounts. Pennsylvania's Governor welcomed the decision, emphasizing learning from history.

Former Congress leader Navjot Kaur Sidhu has strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of being disconnected from ground realities and failing to address internal corruption within the Punjab unit. Sidhu alleged that Gandhi's inaction is detrimental to the party in Punjab, with his inner circle reportedly selling election tickets while he remains unaware.

The investigation into Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's alleged Pakistan links has been transferred to the Central government. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared this development, stating all evidence has been provided. This move follows allegations of a plot to undermine India's development. The Chief Minister described it as a significant step in exposing a broader Pakistan-linked network.

Former NRL star Matt Utai is in critical condition after being shot twice outside his Sydney home. Police are investigating the incident as a targeted ambush. Utai, a premiership winner with the Canterbury Bulldogs, was reportedly heading to work when the shooting occurred. Gunmen fled the scene in an SUV, which was later found burning.

Renowned documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman has passed away at 96. Wiseman was celebrated for his unflinching look at American institutions. His films like 'Titicut Follies' and 'High School' offered unique perspectives. He won an honorary Academy Award and completed over 35 documentaries. His work shaped filmmaking and influenced audiences worldwide. He is deeply missed by family, friends, and colleagues.

Surya Grahan Timing: Solar Eclipse is taking place today, February 17, 2026, however, this Solar Eclipse will not be visible in India. This is the first Solar Eclipse of the year 2026. According to the IST, the Surya Grahan will begin at 3:26 pm and end at 7:57 pm, lasting for about 4 hours and 31 minutes. The peak phase will take place between 5:13 PM and 6:11 PM.

A shooting at a Rhode Island hockey arena resulted in two deaths, including a young girl, and three injuries. The gunman died by suicide and reportedly targeted his family. Authorities are monitoring the situation, which occurred while two student teams were playing.

President Trump urged Ukraine to quickly reach a deal with Russia ahead of crucial Geneva talks brokered by the US. Previous US-mediated discussions in Abu Dhabi failed to achieve a breakthrough, with significant disagreements persisting over territorial concessions demanded by Moscow. Key negotiators from both nations are expected to attend the upcoming summit.

Quote of the day: Charles Baudelaires quote of the day, Always be a poet, even in prose, shows why his 1857 Les Fleurs du mal still influences writers in 2026. The collection reshaped modern poetry and literature. It introduced radical ideas about beauty, mood, and city life. Today, students, creators, and readers search his name for insight and inspiration. This line pushes people to bring art into everyday language and live with creative passion.

Three inmates escaped the Observation Home in R.S. Pura, Jammu, on Monday evening. The escapees include Karajeet Singh and two Pakistani nationals, Mohd Suna-ullah and Ahsan Anwar. During their escape, the inmates attacked and injured two on-duty policemen. Security has been heightened following the incident. Police have launched a manhunt and are conducting raids to apprehend the fugitives.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairman Tarique Rahman will be sworn in as Prime Minister on Tuesday. This marks a new political era after Sheikh Hasina's removal. India's Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will attend the ceremony, highlighting strong bilateral ties. The oath-taking for MPs is scheduled for 9:30 am, with ministerial oaths at 4:00 pm.

Thomas Pritzker has resigned as executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels. He cited errible judgment for his continued contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Pritzker will not seek re-election to the board in 2026. He expressed deep regret for his association. The U.S. Justice Department's release of Epstein-related documents has revealed numerous prominent connections.

Nearly 50% of retirees already pay federal income tax on Social Security benefits. That share is rising in 2026. The Social Security tax thresholds remain frozen at $25,000 and $32,000 since 1984. They are not indexed for inflation. COLA increases and 401(k) withdrawals push combined income higher. Up to 85% of benefits can become taxable. This tax bracket creep quietly reduces net retirement income and strains Social Security trust fund projections.