The Economic Times

Rising Gulf tensions have pushed global crude oil prices up by 9-10%, with Brent crude crossing $80 per barrel. Despite this, India's petrol and diesel prices are unlikely to change immediately as the government maintains a calibrated approach to protect consumers. Concerns over supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz persist, impacting global shipping.

Turkey is actively working to end the war in Iran and restart negotiations. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed talks with Oman and other global partners. The conflict, which began with strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran, has widened significantly. Turkey warns of regional destabilization and impacts on energy supplies.

February saw a surprising jump in inflation across the euro zone, largely driven by rising costs for food and services. This increase could worsen if ongoing conflicts in the Middle East keep energy prices on an upward trajectory. Economists are hopeful for a return to a more stable mid-2% inflation rate, but that hinges on the conflict's resolution.

The United States has successfully deployed a new low-cost suicide drone, LUCAS, in combat in Iran. This rapid deployment occurred just eight months after its unveiling at the Pentagon. The drone's quick fielding reflects lessons learned from drone warfare in Ukraine. The US is accelerating weapons programs to boost industrial capacity for producing inexpensive, attritable drones.

The BJP has accused the Gandhi family of attempting to extort seven crore rupees. This allegation stems from claims by a former Haryana Congress leader's husband. He presented WhatsApp chats involving personal assistants of senior Congress leaders. The chats reportedly show an attempt to secure an assembly election ticket. The Gandhi family has not yet responded to the charges.

Quote of the day reminds readers that usefulness is not measured by acclaim or fortune but by the quiet impact one has on others. It reinforces the idea that even people who feel unseen or underappreciated can make meaningful contributions.

India has expressed deep anxiety over the escalating conflict in Iran and the Gulf region, condemning attacks on merchant shipping. New Delhi is urging for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability, emphasizing its significant stakes in the region's security and the safety of its citizens.

Why are US stock market index futures down today and S&P 500, Dow Jones and Nasdaq in red? Wall Street futures slide after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. Oil prices rise as Tehran threatens Strait of Hormuz. Investors track Federal Reserve signals, inflation risks, Treasury yields, and weak corporate earnings.

Asian nations are concerned about potential shifts in US military assets from their region to the Middle East. This could weaken defenses against China and North Korea. Japan and South Korea, hosting US bases, are particularly worried. Taiwan faces increased pressure from Beijing.

Elevate your evening with seven high-protein Indian vegetarian dinners designed for 2026 health standards. Featuring protein powerhouses like Soya chunks, Seitan, and Paneer, these meals balance traditional spices with modern nutrition to support muscle recovery and weight management while keeping you satisfied until morning.

Chandra Grahan 2026 Live: A rare total lunar eclipse, dubbed the 'Blood Moon,' is visible in parts of India this evening, coinciding with Holi celebrations. While the full event lasts longer globally, Indian viewers will witness the final phase as the Moon rises, with the most visible portion lasting about 20 minutes near sunset.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned on Tuesday they would unleash more intense attacks on the United States and Israel as the war raged for the fourth day. The enemy must await continuous punitive attacks; the gates of hell will open more and more, moment by moment, upon the United States and Israel, the Guards spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini told state TV. bur/jsa

Word of the day: English offers many terms for clarity, yet perspicuity stands apart for its formal dignity and philosophical resonance. It is neither colloquial nor archaic. Instead, it occupies a scholarly register suited to serious analysis. Its Latinate construction lends gravitas to commentary.

The Unique Identification Authority of India has successfully updated biometrics for 1.2 crore school children. This initiative covered over 1 lakh schools. Mandatory biometric updates for children aged 7-15 are now free until October 1, 2025. Children can also visit Aadhaar centres for these updates. This process is crucial for accessing government schemes and examinations.

Iran-Israel War: US President Donald Trump said the military campaign against Iran could last four to five weeks but the US is prepared for a longer operation if needed. Analysts note that the conflict is likely to unfold in phases due to complex military objectives, dispersed targets, and Irans rugged terrain. Broader strategic goals, potential retaliation, regional dynamics, and the absence of a clear political end state all suggest that a multi-week conflict would be expected rather than a qu

The Bharatiya Janata Party has revealed its list of nine candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections. Key nominations include Nitin Nabin from Bihar and Rahul Sinha from West Bengal. The party aims to strengthen its presence in the Upper House. This move is crucial for the passage of important legislation. The central election committee cleared the names.

Indian couples face a growing bedtime divide. Many report sleep disruptions from partners, leading to separate sleeping arrangements. While sleep's health benefits are known, achieving quality rest remains a challenge. Stress, screens, and work pressures impact sleep. This trend highlights a need for better sleep health awareness and support.

The Ministry of Defence has finalised deals worth over Rs 5,000 crore. Six Advanced Light Helicopters for maritime roles and Shtil missiles for air defence are being acquired. These acquisitions will boost the Indian Coast Guard and Navy capabilities. The helicopter deal supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission, involving over 200 MSMEs.

A 27-year-old techie in Bengaluru allegedly died by suicide in her room, reportedly due to distress over an astrologer's prediction about her marriage. The techie, who was in a relationship with a man from a different caste, hung herself from a ceiling fan when her parents were not at home. The astrologer had predicted that there would be misunderstandings between the couple, which might lead to separation.

Iran-Israel War: In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Israel's military executed targeted airstrikes in Tehran late last night, focusing on critical leadership infrastructure. The Iranian presidential office and the Supreme National Security Council were among the primary targets, with precise operations revealing military intelligence's involvement.

Gentleman Cadet Tunmay Shukla will join the Indian Army as a Lieutenant on March 7. This marks the fifth generation of his family to serve the nation. His commissioning continues a military legacy that began in 1841. The Shukla family motto is 'Serving the nation is our duty, serving society is our mission'.

A video on X shows parents' concern after their daughter used the grocery money to buy chocolates and energy drinks instead of essentials. In the video, the parents look upset and worried and scold the girl for buying chocolates, energy drinks, and Amul, with her mother saying these would get over in just 10 days. The video has sparked a debate online about financial responsibility and generational differences in priorities.

Australian shares experienced a significant downturn on Tuesday, March 3. The S&P/ASX 200 index saw a substantial drop, pulled down by heavy losses in technology and healthcare sectors. Energy stocks offered some lone support, but the overall market sentiment was negative. This session highlighted increased market volatility across various sectors.

Iran reports 787 dead from US-Israeli strikes. The conflict escalated Saturday with large-scale attacks. Explosions hit Tehran and other cities. Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes. Regional disruption is a concern.

Indian batter Smriti Mandhana is back at the top of the ICC Women's ODI Batting Rankings. Australian bowler Alana King has also reached the number one position. This follows recent series performances. Mandhana's consistent scores propelled her past Laura Wolvaardt. King's exceptional bowling in the series against India secured her top spot.

Today's word of the day: Abdication refers to the formal act of giving up power or responsibility, most commonly by a monarch. In simke terms, abdication means formally renouncing or stepping away from a position of authority or duty.

On Monday, diplomatic talks between France and China focused on the ongoing conflict in Iran. Both nations underscored their commitment to de-escalation and emphasised the pursuit of a political resolution that prioritises the voices of the Iranian people. France voiced its concerns over Iran's involvement in recent regional hostilities, alongside criticism of its nuclear ambitions and support for militant groups.

Lunar eclipse March 3: As the hours tick closer to totality, viewers across North America will be closely monitoring local forecasts to determine whether clouds will part in time to reveal the Blood Moon March 3 in all its crimson brilliance.

Anil Chaudhary Haryanvi music video: Veteran international cricket umpire Anil Chaudhary has officially transitioned into the world of entertainment with his acting debut in the Haryanvi music video Goli Toh Chalegi. Directed by Suman Guha and produced by Naresh Jha, the gangster anthem features Chaudhary in a stylized action narrative alongside actors Rohit Kharb and Chandani Raut.

Tata Group Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed hope that the Iran-US-Israel conflict will not disrupt supply chains. He stated the conglomerate has plans to mitigate risks arising from the West Asia situation. Employee safety in the region is a top priority. Tata Steel is diversifying limestone sources. Business may see some fluctuations but recovery is expected.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to break his silence on the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict. Gandhi stated that unilateral attacks on Iran and Iran's actions in the Middle East must be condemned. He questioned whether India supports the assassination of a head of state to shape the world order.

Iran war: A lengthier campaign risks sabotaging the euro zones fledgling revival while reawakening inflationary forces that the European Central Bank has fought hard to contain.

Indian space company Agnikul Cosmos plans to launch an AI data centre prototype in orbit by the end of this year. Developed with NeevCloud, this innovative data centre will focus on AI inference. Commercial operations are targeted for 2027. The system will utilize a constellation of rocket upper stages in low Earth orbit, leveraging solar energy and efficient cooling.

Indonesia Earthquake Today: The country experienced a strong earthquake today. A magnitude 6.2 tremor hit the nation. This event follows a previous earthquake in February. Indonesia is prone to natural disasters due to its location. The country sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire. This makes it susceptible to seismic and volcanic activity. Past events highlight the risks of powerful earthquakes and tsunamis.

France will send anti-missile and anti-drone systems, along with a frigate, to Cyprus following drone attacks on a British air base. This French aid follows a similar offer from Greece, which dispatched fighter jets and frigates equipped with anti-drone technology to the island.

Holi 2026 celebrations will see varied liquor sale regulations across India. Uttar Pradesh mandates special licenses for alcohol service. Maharashtra has removed Holi from its dry day list. Madhya Pradesh may close liquor shops on March 4. Delhi-NCR and Hyderabad are expected to have temporary closures or restrictions. Residents should check official announcements.

SIM Binding: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has implemented a mandatory SIM-binding rule effective March 1, 2026, for all messaging platforms operating in India. This directive, issued under the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, requires apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal to ensure that account access is strictly tied to the physical presence of the registered SIM card in the primary device.

HSR Layout in Bengaluru is emerging as a prime commercial hub, attracting startups with its relative affordability and ample space, despite rising rents. The area's appeal lies in its proximity to engineering talent and flexible office solutions, though Grade-A supply is becoming scarce, pushing some firms to nearby districts.

Congress leader Udit Raj claims the Delhi excise policy case was a BJP ploy to disrupt Congress's progress in Punjab and Gujarat. Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal celebrated a court decision as a win for Delhi and India. Raj also raised concerns about the Election Commission's voter list revision process, alleging it benefits the ruling party.

Americans in Israel are advised to plan their own security. The US Embassy cannot help citizens leave the country. The Israeli Ministry of Tourism is operating shuttles to the Taba Border Crossing. Passengers can also travel to Eilat and then to Jordan. The US government does not guarantee safety for those using these options.

The killing of Iran's supreme leader by an American-backed strike has strained U.S.-China detente, with Beijing denouncing it as regime change. China faces a dilemma: supporting its close partner Iran without jeopardizing economic interests or worsening U.S. tensions, especially with a crucial Trump-Xi summit approaching.

iPhone 17e , iPad air M4 Price in India: Apple has officially refreshed its mid-range hardware lineup with the launch of the iPhone 17e and an M4-powered iPad Air. The iPhone 17e brings the A19 chip, a storage jump to 256GB, and a new C1X custom modem for a starting price of 64,900.

Holi 2026 Skin Care Tips: Before going out to play Holi, you must hydrate your skin deeply, apply sunscreen, apply petroleum jelly on lips, behind your ears, near your hairline, and don't apply heavy makeup. While playing Holi, reapply sunscreen and drink lots of water. Once you are done with playing Holi, rinse your skin with lukewarm water, apply a hydrating mask and keep it moisturised.

Holi celebrations bring vibrant colors but can harm your car. Synthetic dyes and chemical-infused water pose risks to paint, glass, and rubber. Owners must take precautions before, during, and after the festival. Applying wax, using car covers, and immediate washing are key. Professional cleaning post-Holi ensures lasting protection and preserves your vehicle's value.

Kerala Lottery Result Today: The Kerala State Lotteries Department has conducted the high-stakes draw for the Sthree-Sakthi SS-509 weekly lottery today, March 3, 2026. The event, held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featured a grand first prize of 1 crore.

Iran war: The American and Israeli bombing of Iran, and Iranian reprisals throughout the region, set dangers in motion that pose a substantial threat to global economic fortunes.