The Economic Times

CBSE has released the Class 10 second board examination schedule for 2026. The second board exams will commence from May 15 and will go on till May 21. The timetable includes major subjects such as Mathematics, English, Science and Social Science, along with language, skills and vocational papers. This allows students who have already passed Class 10th main exam held earlier in February to re-appear for up to three subjects.

Telegram founder Pavel Durov has received a summons in Russia. He is named a suspect in a criminal case. Russian authorities are attempting to block Telegram. They are promoting a state-backed alternative. Durov denies allegations of criminal activity on the app. He states he is proud to defend freedom of speech and private correspondence.

As April heat drives ants indoors, simple mistakes like damp cloths and unsealed sugar jars trigger infestations in Indian kitchens. This guide highlights six common errorsfrom ignoring water puddles to open dustbinsand provides easy, practical fixes to keep your kitchen ant-free throughout the hot summer months.

The European Union is increasing tests on its mutual defense pact. This comes as concerns grow about US security commitments to Europe. EU leaders will develop plans to use the bloc's military and trade tools during crises. Exercises will simulate how member nations can assist each other if attacked. This preparation gains urgency due to global conflicts and evolving alliances.

Iran war: In todays rapidly evolving energy scene, crises have become the new norm, frequently disrupting oil and gas supply chains. The geopolitical landscape and logistic complications have prompted a notable shift, positioning Asia and the US as pivotal players in energy production and trade.

Defence and security-related firms for the first time have their own section at the world's top industrial fair in Hanover this week -- a sign of the times as Germany embarks on a massive rearmament drive. The Hanover fair dates back to 1947 and has not traditionally featured the defence industry, a legacy of the dark shadow cast by Germany's Nazi and militarist past.

Petrol price today: Petrol prices remained stable across major Indian cities on April 23, 2026, despite global crude oil market volatility. While fuel rates are revised daily, they have held steady recently. However, reports suggest a potential increase of Rs 25 to Rs 28 per litre after the assembly elections.

IRS officer daughter rape case: A 22-year-old woman, daughter of a senior IRS officer, was allegedly raped and murdered at her home in southeast Delhis Kailash Hills, with police arresting former domestic help Rahul Meena from Dwarka after a manhunt. According to the Delhi Police, the accused used his familiarity with the house and a spare key to gain entry while the victim was alone, and is suspected to have sexually assaulted and strangled her using a mobile charging cable after she resisted.

Voting is underway in West Bengal's first phase across 152 constituencies. Early reports indicate peaceful polling with high security. Some minor incidents and EVM issues have been noted. Over 3.60 crore voters are eligible. Key battles feature prominent leaders in various districts. The election focuses on issues like electoral roll revisions and job corruption.

Voting began in West Bengal's assembly elections amid disruptions. Electronic Voting Machine glitches caused delays at several polling stations across districts like Murshidabad, Purba Medinipur, Cooch Behar, Malda, and Darjeeling. Overnight violence was also reported from some areas, with incidents of crude bomb hurling and attacks on political workers. Security forces are present.

A devastating road accident in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, claimed eleven lives, including children. A truck's suspected brake failure triggered a chain collision involving multiple vehicles. Police and locals worked tirelessly in rescue operations. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow and ordered immediate aid for the injured. Investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of this tragic incident.

HSBC has downgraded Indian stocks to underweight. Rising energy prices from the Middle East war are a concern. This could impact India's earnings recovery. The market now looks less attractive compared to North East Asian peers. Foreign investors have been selling Indian stocks. Opportunities exist in select sectors like private banks, base metals, and healthcare.

European new car sales surged 11.1% in March, driven by a massive 42% jump in electric vehicle registrations. This strong performance, with EVs making up nearly 70% of sales, helped offset declining petrol and diesel models. Tesla saw an impressive 84.3% growth, surpassing competitor BYD. Legacy automakers also reported moderate gains.

The sacred Badrinath temple in Uttarakhand has reopened its doors to pilgrims. After a six-month winter closure, the temple gates were ceremonially opened on Thursday morning. Thousands of devotees gathered for the auspicious occasion. Other prominent Himalayan shrines like Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath have also welcomed pilgrims. The temple was beautifully adorned with flowers for the reopening.

Excise officials in Hyderabad arrested a former software engineer for cultivating cannabis plants on his terrace. Investigators linked the case to substance dependency and job loss. In a separate incident, two engineering students were apprehended for allegedly selling ganja in the city. These arrests highlight a growing trend of small-scale drug cultivation and local sales tied to personal issues.

European households are rapidly installing rooftop solar systems. This surge follows a sharp rise in power prices caused by the Iran war. Companies are seeing significant increases in demand and sales. This trend highlights a growing focus on energy independence and resilience across the continent. The shift is accelerating efforts to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Tamil Nadu votes today in Assembly elections. Over 5.73 crore people are eligible to cast their ballots. A record 14.6 lakh first-time voters are expected to participate. Women voters form the majority, a trend seen since 2016. The state aims to surpass the 2011 voter turnout record. Massive security and logistics are in place for the 234-member Assembly.

Voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly election began on Thursday. Key parties DMK and AIADMK are contesting. Prominent leaders and actors cast their votes early. Prime Minister Modi urged enthusiastic participation, especially from youth and women. Union Home Minister Shah appealed for a government focused on public aspirations. Over 5.

Appellate tribunals have reinstated voting rights for 139 individuals in West Bengal. These voters were initially flagged as not eligible. The tribunals are working under the Calcutta High Court's supervision. This action comes ahead of the first phase of polling. Efforts are underway to ensure these voters can cast their ballots. Legal challenges to the tribunal process have also emerged.

West Bengal Assembly Elections: Voting is happening today in West Bengal's first phase elections. Over 3.60 crore voters are eligible across 152 constituencies. Security is high with extensive central forces deployed. Prime Minister Modi and Governor Ravi urged citizens to vote. This phase is crucial for both BJP and TMC. Key leaders are contesting.

KSEAB Class 10th SSLC Results 2026: The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) will release the SSLC Class 10 Examination-1 results for 2026 on April 23 at 12 PM. Students can check their results online via official KSEAB websites, DigiLocker, the KarnatakaOne mobile app, or through SMS. The results will be accessible on karresults.nic.in, kseab.karnataka.gov.in, and sslc.karnataka.gov.in.

West Bengal/ Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 Voter Turnout Live: Voter turnout in West Bengal reached 18.8% by 9:30 am today. Tamil Nadu recorded 17.7% turnout. Voters are casting ballots in 152 constituencies across 16 districts in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu's elections are being held in a single phase. Both states historically see high voter participation. West Bengal's 2021 assembly elections saw over 82% turnout.

West Bengal/ Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 Voter Turnout Live: Voter turnout in West Bengal reached 18.8% by 9:30 am today. Tamil Nadu recorded 17.7% turnout. Voters are casting ballots in 152 constituencies across 16 districts in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu's elections are being held in a single phase. Both states historically see high voter participation. West Bengal's 2021 assembly elections saw over 82% turnout.

India is piloting its digital rupee, the e-rupee, for welfare payments. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and reduce corruption in government subsidies. Farmers like Samadhan Sonawane are receiving funds directly for farm equipment. Similar trials are underway for food distribution. The e-rupee offers programmable features to ensure funds are used as intended.

South Korea's air force has apologized for a 2021 mid-air collision involving two fighter jets. Auditors revealed pilots were taking selfies and filming during the flight. This led to unplanned maneuvers and the crash. One pilot faced disciplinary action and left the military. The air force is now strengthening flight safety rules to prevent future incidents.

The United States expresses concern as African nations reportedly denied Taiwan's president airspace access at China's direction. This action is seen as an abuse of international aviation rules. The incident marks a new Chinese strategy to isolate Taiwan internationally. The US urges Beijing to cease its pressure tactics against Taiwan and its supporters.

Karnataka SSLC Result 2026 KSEAB link: Karnataka SSLC results for 2026 are scheduled for release today, April 23, at noon. Lakhs of students can check their scores online through official websites, mobile apps, and SMS. DigiLocker will also provide digital marks cards. Students are advised to keep their roll numbers ready. This year, approximately nine lakh students registered for the examination.

President Trump extends a ceasefire with Iran hoping to end a costly war. Iran demands the US naval blockade end before any agreement. Trump faces a difficult negotiation with Iran's unyielding diplomats. The war has proven politically disastrous for Trump. Iran's clerical state is not on the verge of collapse and will not surrender.

UP Board Results 2026 DigiLocker: The UP Board Class 10 and 12 results will be available across multiple platforms, including the official website, DigiLocker, and SMS service. Students can either download the DigiLocker app or visit the official website of DigiLocker at results.digilocker.gov.in. Students have to enter their Aadhaar number and mobile number and then navigate to the UP Board 2026 results section.

Boeing anticipates a significant Chinese aircraft order contingent on US administration support. CEO Kelly Ortberg stated a resolution on spare parts access has been reached with Chinese airlines. Boeing is also increasing 737 production and opening a new line in Everett, Washington. Deliveries are expected to continue despite global volatility. Space business milestones are also highlighted.

US-Iran war news: American forces intercepted 31 vessels, mostly oil tankers, as part of a blockade against Iran. This action follows Iran firing on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump extended a ceasefire but maintained the blockade. Iran condemned the naval restrictions as an act of war. The US demands Iran surrender enriched uranium for any permanent agreement.

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Araqchi, has warned South Korea's envoy that those who start a war will be held accountable for its consequences. This strong statement from Tehran suggests a serious escalation of tensions, with Iran placing the blame squarely on any potential aggressors for any future conflict.

UP Board Result 2026 Class 12: The Class 12 UP Board results are coming out today, along with Class 10 results. The result link will be activated after a press conference at 4 pm. The UP Class 12 results 2026 can be checked on official websites upmsp.edu.in, upresults.nic.in, DigiLocker, UMANG app and also through SMS service.

Businesses face rising costs and supply chain disruptions due to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. Companies report higher transport and raw material expenses. Consumer confidence is dented, impacting demand. Many firms are signaling price hikes or cutting financial forecasts. The conflict's duration and impact on oil flows are key concerns for future outlooks.

This Russian proverb talks about focus and concentration in life. It explains that trying to do many things at the same time can lead to failure. The message teaches that people should choose one goal and work on it properly. It is often used to explain the importance of attention, discipline, and avoiding distraction in daily life and work.

President Donald Trump announced Iran would not execute eight women protesters. He stated this was a sign of respect for his request. Iranian officials, however, denied any executions were planned. They called Trump's claims false and an attempt to save face. Some women are facing prison sentences, not death. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.

SoftBank Group is seeking a substantial $10 billion loan. This loan is backed by its shares in ChatGPT-maker OpenAI. The move signals SoftBank's aggressive push into artificial intelligence. This follows previous significant investments and loans for the AI firm. The company is increasing its debt to fund its AI ambitions.

West Bengal politics remains a high-stakes battle between the long-standing dominance of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) under Mamata Banerjee and the rising challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Despite BJPs rapid growth and strong national presence, it continues to face hurdles such as the outsider perception, weaker grassroots networks, and lack of a fully established local leadership structure. In contrast, the TMC benefits from deep organisational reach, strong emotional connect wit

Assembly elections 2026: Voting for Tamil Nadu and West Bengal polls commences today. Mock polling ensured readiness. Tamil Nadu votes in a single phase, while West Bengal has two phases. Counting is on May 4. Key contests are between DMK and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, and Trinamool Congress and BJP in West Bengal. By-elections in Gujarat and Maharashtra are also happening.

US forces have intercepted at least three Iranian oil tankers in Asian waters. These vessels were near India, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. The US military is redirecting them away from their locations. This action is part of a broader US blockade on Iran's maritime trade. Iran has also reported capturing two container ships.

Shipping giants are demanding safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Top executives state that until vessels can transit without risk, oil and cargo movement from the Gulf will remain stalled. Companies await reassurance of secure navigation. The situation has created significant uncertainty for global energy supplies. Normalisation of voyages is hard to foresee.

Quote of the Day by Walt Disney: All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them is a famous quote by Mickey Mouse creator Walt Disney. The quote means that any dream can become real if we are brave enough to go after it. Disney says if you have the courage to try and not give up on your dreams, then you can achieve your goals.

Today's Jewish proverb of the day teaches that words are very powerful and cannot be taken back once spoken. It reminds people to think before speaking and choose words carefully. The saying focuses on responsibility, communication, and the impact of speech in daily life. It shows how simple words can affect relationships and leave a lasting effect on others.

America's Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed that Gulf and Asian nations seek currency swap lines from the US. These requests aim to manage energy shocks and Middle East war impacts. The US also extended sanctions relief on Russian oil for vulnerable countries. This move aims to stabilize oil markets and prevent price surges.