The Economic Times

West Bengal Police apprehended advocate Mofakkarul Islam at Bagdogra airport. He is accused of orchestrating the gherao of seven judicial officers in Malda. Islam was attempting to flee the country. This arrest brings the total number of those detained to 33. The incident occurred on Wednesday night.

Recent satellite imagery reveals significant destruction to port infrastructure on Qeshm Island, Iran, following coordinated strikes by the US and Israel. Additionally, a critical bridge in Karaj has suffered damage, leading to civilian loss of life.

A new world order is emerging from the West Asia conflict. The United Nations Charter's authority has weakened. Pakistan's mediation efforts failed. The core dispute lies between America and Iran. India is positioned to help shape this new global landscape. No single nation can dictate the future alone. This period of chaos will lead to significant change.

Rising crude oil prices due to the West Asian conflict are significantly increasing the cost of manmade fibre raw materials. This is creating immense pressure across the entire textile value chain. Customers are unable to absorb these higher costs, leading to a cautious approach from spinners and weavers.

Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha has been replaced as the party's deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha. Chadha stated he was silenced, not defeated, after the decision. Party leaders deny claims of preventing him from speaking. This development follows Chadha's absence from key party events and signals potential strain within AAP.

Middle East war: Iran reports shooting down a US F-35 fighter jet over its territory. This comes as Iran also launched missiles towards Israel. The US Central Command has not yet confirmed the F-35 incident. Earlier, three US F-15E aircraft were downed in Kuwait due to friendly fire during Operation Epic Fury. The conflict between the US and Iran is ongoing.

The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran has severely strained NATO, with President Trump threatening withdrawal over European navies' refusal to open the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts and diplomats believe the alliance is at its weakest point, fraying the core mutual defense agreement and prompting European nations to consider defense without U.S. involvement.

China is set to upgrade some older petrochemical plants while shutting down others by 2029. This move aims to improve the supply-demand balance in the petrochemical sector. Local governments have compiled lists of facilities for this purpose. Annual surveys will identify new outdated plants. The nation plans to reduce oil refining capacity.

President Donald Trump's 2027 budget prioritizes military spending, proposing a substantial boost for the Pentagon. This plan signals a shift away from domestic programs like day care and healthcare. The budget arrives as Congress grapples with current-year spending and a prolonged government shutdown. Lawmakers will debate these priorities as they craft their own spending bills.

Assam Elections: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren predicted a shift in the tea tribe-Adivasi vote towards Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. He campaigned for Digboi candidate Bharat Nayak. Soren criticized the BJP government for neglecting tea garden communities. He promised efforts to enhance wages and improve facilities for tea workers if his party's candidate is elected.

A tragic road accident on the KMP Expressway in Sonipat, Haryana, claimed the lives of Punjab Congress leader Khushbaz Singh Jatana and his driver. Their vehicle was struck by a speeding truck while they were changing a flat tyre. A gunman and another individual assisting were injured in the incident. The family has been informed.

Discover the 'selenophile,' an individual captivated by the moon's ethereal beauty and tranquil glow. This term, rooted in Greek, describes those who find peace and inspiration under lunar light. In Canada, the vast, clear nights amplify this connection, painting serene, cinematic scenes. Explore related terms like 'noctivagant' and 'astrophile' to deepen your understanding of this celestial fascination.

Christina Marie Plante: A 13-year-old Arizona girl, Christina Marie Plante, who vanished in 1994 while walking to a horse stable, has been found alive after more than three decades. The Gila County Sheriff's Office announced the resolution of the decades-old missing person case, crediting advances in technology for generating new leads.

Tiger Woods was arrested on DUI charges in Florida after crashing his SUV, with bodycam footage showing him appearing disoriented and failing a sobriety test. He told officers he had been using prescription medication, including hydrocodone, and not alcohol.

Iran assures India its vessels are safe amid Strait of Hormuz tensions, asserting only Iran and Oman will determine its future. India has resumed LPG imports from Iran, highlighting renewed energy engagement. The UN Security Council is set to vote on a resolution to protect shipping, facing opposition from China.

Iran war: The writer reflects on wartime destruction in London to highlight concerns about ongoing strikes in Iran, especially the historic city of Isfahan. Iran has many protected heritage sites, but these remain vulnerable during conflict.

As part of these efforts, traffic authorities are making temporary adjustments such as closing and reopening specific turns and intersections. During a recent experiment on MA Road, officials temporarily shut a turn near the mechanised parking facility to observe whether redirecting movement towards another point would improve traffic behaviour.

New fossils discovered in Chinas Yunnan province show that complex animal life began millions of years earlier than previously thought, during the late Ediacaran period around 539 million years ago.

Pakistan petrol, diesel prices: The petrol price in cash-strapped Pakistan has increased to PKR 458.40 rupees per litre and diesel has breached the 500 mark. This comes when Pakistan has claimed to be a mediator in the US-Iran war. The increase in fuel prices is expected to burn the pockets of Pakistanis, already facing high inflation and cost of living.

Shivang Kumar's father: Shivang Kumar, a 23-year-old spinner from Moradabad, made his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad after a journey marked by his father's unconventional coaching and a five-month break from the sport. His impressive domestic performances, including a five-wicket haul, ultimately secured him a spot in the league.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Ajinkya Rahane, following KKR's second loss in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, defended his performance by emphasizing that his strike rate has been among the best since 2023, dismissed critics as people who aren't properly watching matches, and suggested that the negativity toward him may stem from bias or even jealousy over his success.

The Election Commission has completed verification for over 52 lakh voters in West Bengal. Work continues for nearly 8 lakh more applicants. The entire adjudication process is expected to finish by April 7. This is crucial as the first phase of elections begins on April 23. Security measures are being enhanced for judicial officers after a recent incident.

Intelligence assessments cited by CNN say Iran still retains a large share of its missile and drone capabilities despite weeks of US-Israeli strikes, contradicting claims by Donald Trump that its programme was destroyed.

Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan have successfully reopened a crucial supply route in Upper Nile State, previously closed due to last year's floods. This vital effort by UNMISS engineers will significantly improve mobility and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to vulnerable communities in a challenging environment.

A teenager, Connor James Tobin, is facing more than 50 charges. He allegedly brought a loaded gun to an Eastern Passage restaurant. Police later seized more weapons, including a handgun with a prohibited magazine, long guns, and body armour. This incident was related to intimate partner violence. Tobin remains in custody.

The Middle East conflict intensifies as Iran continues its strikes, impacting regional stability and global energy markets. US President Trump claims Iran's threat is diminishing, but Tehran asserts its capabilities remain strong. Attacks have caused significant casualties and displacement. Disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz threaten oil supplies, leading to rising prices and economic concerns worldwide.

US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning regarding potential strikes on Iran's bridges and electric power plants. This comes as US-Israeli strikes reportedly caused civilian casualties in Iran. Iran's leadership acknowledges the need for swift action. The conflict intensifies, raising concerns for civilian safety.

Quote of the Day by Mignon McLaughlin: Love in marriage is a continuous journey. Mignon McLaughlin's quote highlights that enduring relationships need repeated rediscovery. Couples must actively nurture affection and admiration. This involves small acts of appreciation and adapting to changes. Such renewal keeps the bond strong over time. It is an ongoing choice for partners.

Delhi weather: Parts of Delhi-NCR woke up to dust storms and strong winds on Friday morning with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of light rain and thunderstorms today. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi for Saturday, April 4. Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad might also see one or two spells of rain today and tomorrow.

Filmmaker Nadav Lapid's new movie 'Yes' opens in US cinemas. The film depicts a couple in Tel Aviv navigating a dual life of raising a child and attending fetish parties. It delves into themes of identity and existential meaning. Lapid states the movie reflects a society on the edge, capturing a global sense of chaos and fear.

FBI Director Kash Patel, Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, and Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer are being considered for departures from the Trump administration. The timing remains uncertain, as President Trump has not finalised any decisions. The claims could not be independently verified at this time.

Trump administration's decision to import nearly one billion eggs last year also helped lower prices, according to an official.

China's UN representative, Fu Cong, has strongly opposed any measures authorising military action in the Middle East. Addressing the United Nations, he warned that such approval would essentially legitimise the unlawful and indiscriminate use of force, according to reports from Al Jazeera.

Aerospace giant Airbus is enhancing its drone capabilities. The company is developing drones to work alongside manned aircraft. This initiative is driven by lessons from recent conflicts and a European rearmament drive. Airbus aims to double production rates by 2027. This strategic move positions Airbus to meet growing demand for advanced drone technology in defense and civilian applications.

Good Friday 2026 Wishes Messages: Good Friday is one of the most somber days of the Christian calendar and it commemorates Jesus Christ's sacrifice, more specifically the suffering and agony he faced leading up to his Crucifixion. On this occasion, we have Good Friday wishes, images, messages, quotes, WhatsApp status and Instagram blessings to share today.

Iran announced a proposal with Oman to monitor the Strait of Hormuz. The plan aims to ensure safe passage for ships. This comes amid tensions and reported demands for passage fees. The strait is a vital international waterway. Iran stated wartime conditions affect navigation rules. Oman has not yet confirmed the proposal.

America remains open to talks with Iran. This comes as military conflict continues. President Trump has issued new warnings about Iran's civilian infrastructure. The US states it is winning the war. However, an exit strategy is not detailed. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed. This situation has impacted global energy prices.

Donald Trump had asked Congress for a national defense budget of $892.6 billion then added $150 billion through a supplemental budget request, sending the total price tag over $1 trillion for the first time in history.

The UN Security Council is set to vote on a watered-down proposal to secure the Strait of Hormuz, allowing only defensive actions after China and Russia opposed authorizing force. The resolution aims to ensure safe passage for vessels, a critical waterway for global oil transport, following Iran's interference.

Quote of the day by Gianni Versace: He believed healthy competition pushes individuals to excel. This concept fuels personal growth and innovation. Versace, a renowned designer, built a global fashion empire. He inspired supermodels and influenced the industry significantly. His legacy continues through his sister Donatella.

President Trump adjusted national security tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper imports, reducing duty rates on derivative products and simplifying compliance. The U.S. will maintain a 50% tariff on commodity metals but apply it to customer prices, while derivative products with less than 15% metal content will see duties eliminated.

Blake Lively Justin Baldoni: A federal judge dismissed most of Blake Lively's sexual harassment claims against Justin Baldoni in their It Ends With Us film lawsuit, citing that the alleged conduct occurred outside California. Lively can still pursue retaliation and contract claims against Baldoni's production company.

Quote of the day by Blake Lively: She offers a practical approach to handling criticism, emphasizing the importance of discerning constructive feedback from mere negativity. She advises focusing on valuable insights that foster growth while disregarding personal attacks, thereby protecting self-worth and maintaining emotional strength amidst external opinions.

S&P 500, Dow Jones, Nasdaq today: Wall Street experienced a volatile Thursday, with markets swinging sharply due to rising geopolitical tensions and shifting Middle East signals. Despite intraday drops, the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq closed with modest moves, with all three major indexes posting strong weekly gains.

Who is General Christopher LaNeve, new US Army Chief of Staff? The US Army faces a leadership shift after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asked General Randy George to retire. General Christopher LaNeve will serve as acting Army Chief of Staff. This explainer covers his career, education, deployments, awards, family background, and the context behind the change.

Who is General Randy George, why was he fired by Pete Hegseth, and who will be next Army Chief of Staff? The Pentagon confirmed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asked Army Chief of Staff General Randy George to retire before the end of his term. The leadership change comes during rising military activity linked to the Iran war and troop deployments. General Christopher LaNeve will serve as acting Army Chief of Staff while the administration prepares its long-term leadership decision.