The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
In an interview with the Swiss-based daily newspaper 20 Minuten, Alois Zwinggi, the Swiss head of the WEF, responded to remarks by the President of the Green Party of Switzerland, Lisa Mazzone, who urged the organisers to prevent Trump's participation, citing Washington's recent intervention in Venezuela, which led to the capture of Nicolas Maduro, former President of the South American nation and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Delhi faces a yellow alert as dense fog blankets the capital. Temperatures are expected to range from 5 to 22 degrees Celsius. Air quality has worsened significantly, entering the severe category. This has prompted the invocation of Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan. Citizens are advised to stay informed about the evolving weather and pollution situation.
India's Supreme Court is reviewing the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. Judges are concerned the law is misused against consensual teenage relationships. They propose a 'Romeo-Juliet' clause to protect genuine adolescent bonds. This aims to differentiate abuse from young love. The court stresses the law's core purpose must be preserved.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has arrived in Davos for the World Economic Forum, aiming to showcase the state as India's premier growth engine globally. He expressed determination to bolster 'Magnetic Maharashtra' on the world stage. This participation follows a successful 2025 WEF where Maharashtra secured Rs 15.7 lakh crore in investment commitments through 54 MoUs.
Protesters set off from Kublis in southeastern Switzerland, trekking through wintry terrain toward Davos in what organisers described as a statement against capitalism, entrenched power structures, and policies they see as contributing to climate change and social inequality. Many carried placards with slogans calling for Democracy rather than WEF dictatorship and opposing oligarchic influence on global affairs.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch and lay foundation stones for key infrastructure projects in Singur, West Bengal. These initiatives include an extended port gate system at Balagarh, an electric catamaran in Kolkata, and a new rail line between Jayrambati and Maynapur. The Prime Minister will also flag off Amrit Bharat trains.
Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-serving monarch, reigned for over 70 years. Her rule saw immense global shifts. She was a symbol of stability, dedicating herself to public service. She undertook numerous engagements and state visits. Her legacy highlights duty and her role in modernizing the monarchy. She was a unifying figure for the UK and Commonwealth.
Two people have died following a Guillain-Barre Syndrome outbreak in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh. Authorities are actively identifying and treating patients. A control room and special ward have been established. The government is covering treatment costs. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the outbreak. Samples have been sent for testing.
Delhi continued to face a severe air pollution crisis on Sunday, with the AQI hitting 439 by 7 am, keeping the city firmly in the severe category. Several areas, including Anand Vihar (489), Ashok Vihar (463), and Punjabi Bagh (476), reported extremely poor air quality, posing serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or heart conditions.
The Bnei Menashe community, claiming descent from a lost biblical tribe, is undergoing interviews for emigration to Israel. This initiative offers hope to many facing hardship in Manipur and Mizoram. Israel plans to welcome thousands more by 2030. The process involves rabbinical judges and government officials, marking a significant step for these aspiring migrants.
In December 2025, a fire at Birch by Romeo Lane in Goa killed 25 people, highlighting Indias lack of emergency literacy. Experts say most deaths in disasters occur not from the hazard itself but from panic, poor crowd management, blocked exits, and untrained bystanders. Citizens often do not know basic life-saving skills such as CPR, first aid, or fire response, and fear legal repercussions despite the Good Samaritan Law.
JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon has denied being offered the Federal Reserve chair position. This comes after President Donald Trump disputed a report claiming he made the offer. Trump also stated he will sue JPMorgan. The bank maintains it does not close accounts based on political or religious beliefs. Dimon has previously opposed some Trump administration policies.
A landslide narrowly missed a house on Sydney's Northern Beaches after intense storms caused a torrent of mud and trees to crash down a hillside. Flash flooding and severe weather have impacted large parts of New South Wales, leading to evacuations and numerous rescues. Residents are urged to avoid floodwaters as wet and windy conditions persist.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has warned that United States tariffs on its allies are detrimental. She believes these actions weaken prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic. Kallas stated that China and Russia are the primary beneficiaries of such divisions among allies. She suggested that security concerns regarding Greenland can be addressed within NATO.
President Donald Trump has clashed with major US oil companies over investment plans in Venezuela, saying he may block Exxon Mobil after its CEO called the country uninvestable. Trump wants oil firms to invest heavily to boost supply and keep oil prices low, while industry leaders remain cautious about risk, costs and shareholder returns.
Thousands in Greenland marched against U.S. President Donald Trump's interest in their island. Protesters chanted 'Greenland is not for sale' supporting self-governance. Trump announced a 10% import tax on goods from eight European countries opposing U.S. control of Greenland. Demonstrations occurred in Nuuk, Copenhagen, and Canada. Greenlanders emphasized their fight for freedom and autonomy.
Israel has objected to the United States' selection of candidates for a Gaza 'Board of Peace'. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the appointments were not coordinated with Israel and contradict its policy. Foreign Affairs Minister Gideon Sa'ar will convey these concerns to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Quote of the day by Albert Einstein highlights thinking beyond limits. The quote connects with Einsteins life, education, and ideas. This explainer covers the quote meaning, biography, education, theories, Nobel Prize work, and why Albert Einstein quotes still guide learning and thought today.
Thought of the day by John Denver shares a message about people supporting each other. The quote reflects his life, music, and public work. The explainer covers John Denvers career, songs, social work, and lasting ideas that continue to guide readers today.
Wealth quote of the day by Benjamin Graham explains how investors react to optimism and pessimism. The quote reflects value investing ideas. It connects market behavior, price, and value. It also links to Grahams life, books, and long-term impact on modern investing.
Pop star Taylor Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce are navigating a significant challenge. Rumours of Kelce's potential retirement are causing stress. Swift is reportedly supporting Kelce through this career uncertainty. Wedding plans are on hold as Kelce decides his future. His decision is expected soon after the Super Bowl. This period marks a crucial moment for the couple.
During a rally in Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed concerns about unlawful infiltration, emphasising a protective stance for the Matua community. He reassured attendees that as refugees, they possess certain rights under the Citizenship Amendment Act.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Congress for its past misrule in Assam and the Northeast. He stated that the party's actions led to the region being cut off from the national mainstream and fueled instability. Modi also highlighted the BJP government's efforts to undo previous damage and free land from encroachment.
Today in History: What happened on January 17: January 17th is a date rich with historical significance, marking the unveiling of the Chevrolet Corvette, the birth of Muhammad Ali, and the passing of Bobby Fischer. This day also witnessed pivotal wartime meetings, the formation of political movements, devastating natural disasters, and iconic pop culture debuts, showcasing the profound impact of a single day.
Congress leaders met late Saturday to review Tamil Nadu election preparations. Discussions focused on alliance arrangements with the DMK. The party seeks a larger seat share and clearer power-sharing commitments. Leaders also considered options with actor Vijay's TVK.
Security forces have killed two Naxalites in Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh. The encounter took place in the Farsegarh police station area. Bodies of the Maoists were recovered along with AK-47 rifles. The operation was launched based on specific intelligence.
The BJD has suspended two sitting MLAs, Sanatan Mahakud and Arvind Mohapatra, for anti-party activities. This move follows recent electoral setbacks for the party in Odisha. The suspensions aim to reinforce discipline and authority within the BJD. Mahakud has been openly critical, while Mohapatra's suspension was a surprise.
Kerala Congress leader Jose K Mani is in a strong bargaining position as both LDF and UDF vie for his party's support in the upcoming Assembly elections. Despite internal divisions and outreach from the Congress, Mani has reiterated his party's commitment to the LDF, while leaving room for further negotiations.
A poster at the JDU office in Patna has fueled speculation about RCP Singh's potential return to the party after a three-year absence. Singh, who recently joined Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraj and saw his daughter lose an Assembly election, has since praised Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, his former mentor.
Katy Perrys quote of the day I think you can have it all, you just have to work really hard because great things dont come easily, conveys a simple but challenging reality: success needs constant effort. Bringing from her own journey through rejection, reinvention, and global popularity, the phrase reframes ambition as a long term commitment rather than instant reward.
Trump is planning to sue JPMorgan after claims in the Wall Street Journal about offering Jamie Dimon top government jobs. He says the reports are false and that JPMorgan unfairly closed his accounts. This story is about Trump, JPMorgan, lawsuits, and false news, attracting attention to legal and banking disputes linked to the former president.
Shiv Sena has housed its newly elected corporators in a Mumbai hotel. This move comes as the BJP falls short of a majority in the BMC. Uddhav Thackeray of UBT Sena suggests the BJP might attempt to poach corporators. Meanwhile, NCP factions are discussing a merger following their defeat in recent civic polls.
The agreement, designed to lower tariffs and boost trade between the two regions, must now gain the consent of the European Parliament and be ratified by legislatures of Mercosur members Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.
What is Parental Choice Tax Credit Program and how to get $7,500 payment is a common question for families in Idaho. The program offers refundable tax credits for non-public education expenses. Applications are open with income rules, limits, deadlines, and approved spending categories.
Marla Maples, ex-wife of Donald Trump, revealed her current focus is learning to say o to better dedicate time to her yeses, particularly her divine purpose. She is actively involved with the Global Wellness Forum and her Marla Maples Foundation, aiming to help others through advocacy and support for initiatives nourishing body and soul.
Myanmar successfully conducted phase-1 of its national elections on December 28, 2025, with over 60% voter participation, despite Western skepticism. The elections, aimed at restoring stability, introduced a Mixed Member Proportional system for greater inclusivity. Phase-2 also concluded with higher turnout but increased violence, prompting India to adopt a wait-and-watch approach.
Donald Trump announced new U.S. tariffs on several European countries. The tariffs start at 10% and later rise to 25%. He linked the move to national security and a proposed Greenland deal. Trump said the action is needed to protect global safety and strengthen Americas defense systems.
Russias participation lent a distinctive international dimension to the fair. The Russian pavilion set up at Bharat Mandapam became a major centre of attraction, with active involvement from Russian publishers, literary institutions, and cultural representatives.
NASA's massive moon rocket is moving to the launch pad for a historic mission. Astronauts will fly around the moon for the first time in over fifty years. This journey could launch as early as February. Thousands gathered to witness the rocket's slow journey.

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