The Economic Times

An HR executive was brutally attacked with bats after his car was rear-ended near IMT Manesar. The victim, Nitesh Bhatia, believes the assault was pre-planned, not mere road rage. Three assailants, armed with cricket and baseball bats, continued to beat him even after he fell. Bystanders intervened, and police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the attackers.

During the discussion on the motion of thanks on the Governor's address in the Assembly on Thursday, the parliamentary affairs minister lost his cool, triggering an uproar.

he Kerala Story 2 case: The petition stated that it approached the court after being aggrieved by the grant of certification to the film titled The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond by the CBFC allegedly without due compliance with the statutory mandate under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States. Iranian ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani stated that US bases and assets in the region will be considered legitimate targets. This comes amid escalating tensions and military deployments by the US. Iran insists it is committed to diplomatic solutions for its nuclear program.

A new survey reveals Indian Americans are unhappy with Donald Trump's approach to India. Trade and technology issues have strained ties. Many also face online racism and discrimination. This impacts their political leanings and views on US-India relations. The report highlights growing concerns for the diaspora.

President Donald Trump has ordered government agencies to release files on aliens and UFOs. This follows former President Barack Obama's comments suggesting aliens might exist. Public interest in UFOs grew after leaked Navy videos in 2017. Congress held hearings, and the Pentagon established an office to investigate these phenomena.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reportedly blocked Donald Trump from using RAF bases for strikes on Iran, citing concerns over international law. This decision came amid US military build-up and Trump's public calls for the UK to resist wokeism and not cede control of Diego Garcia.

Quote of the Day by Michael Hudson: The economy doesn't work for you it works to extract from you. U.S. national debt has crossed $34 trillion in 2026. Annual federal interest payments now top $1 trillion. Household debt exceeds $17 trillion. Mortgage rates remain high. Credit card interest rates are above 20%. Economist Michael Hudson says this is a debt-driven economy. In Super Imperialism, he explains how the U.S. shifted from creditor nation to debtor nation. He argues financialization and

Laid-off Americans now wait 21 weeks for a new job. Many accept $17,000 salary cuts. Lost health insurance adds $6,720 yearly. Missing 401(k) matches cost $3,800 annually. Total compensation loss hits $40,000. A 20% pay cut suppresses lifetime earnings for years. This lowball trend stalls long-term career growth and erodes retirement security. Negotiating for remote flexibility or six-month pay reviews is essential to survive this volatile job market.

More than 7.4 million Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will receive their March 2026 Social Security payment early on February 27, 2026. The early SSI deposit is nationwide. It is not a stimulus check. The Social Security Administration moved the payment because March 1 falls on a Sunday. Federal rules require benefits to go out on the prior business day. March will not have a separate SSI payment. It is a schedule shift. Not extra money.

Twenty suspects are now the focus as the FBI identifies names and photos in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. Agents are canvassing gun shops with photo packets to find the owner of a black Ozark Trail backpack. DNA evidence from a recovered glove is undergoing genetic genealogy testing. Over 14,500 search hours and a $200,000 reward drive this high-stakes Tucson case. Savannah Guthries family is cleared as federal searches expand.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos believes Nancy Guthrie, 84, was a victim of targeted kidnapping near her Tucson home. Law enforcement is actively searching, with evidence including DNA analysis and surveillance footage of a potential suspect. Rewards for information now exceed $200,000.

Skywatchers have a rare opportunity to witness a rare six-planet alignment on February 28, 2026. Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter will appear in a line shortly after sunset. While four planets can be watched with the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a telescope. NASA highlights that planets must be sufficiently above the horizon for optimal viewing, as lower positions are obscured by Earths atmosphere and obstacles.

Jeffrey Immelts quote, Leadership is an intense journey into yourself... Every morning, I look in the mirror and say, 'I could have done three things better yesterday' highlights the significance of self-reflection in leadership. It refers to daily accountability and personal growth. Immelts career, spanning major corporate transformations and global challenges, offers weight to his perspective.

Bitcoin BTC USD price prediction: Eric Trump expressed strong confidence in Bitcoin at the World Financial Forum, calling it a top-performing asset class. He believes Bitcoin could reach $1 million, citing its significant past growth and potential upside, despite acknowledging its inherent volatility. Trump remains highly bullish on the cryptocurrency's future.

The International Monetary Fund will present its U.S. economic policy review on February 25. This report will examine fiscal, trade, and current account deficits. It will also assess the dollar's value. The IMF views the dollar as central to the global monetary system. The review follows consultations with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other Trump administration officials.

Many job seekers are now trying AI interview tools to feel more confident during interviews. These tools can help people structure answers, remember points, and reduce stress. But they cannot replace real preparation or strong knowledge. Experts say candidates still need good basics, practice, and understanding because AI tools can only give small support, not full success.

The United States has paid USD 160 million towards its substantial UN dues. This payment is for the UN's regular budget. The UN had warned of financial collapse if member nations did not pay. The US owes billions to the UN's regular and peacekeeping budgets. This comes as President Trump convenes a new peace initiative.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed concerns over the recent India-US trade deal. He stated the agreement will adversely affect farmers in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Apple, almond, and walnut growers are expected to face significant consequences. Sukhu highlighted that almond prices have already seen a decline due to such trade agreements.

Supreme Court is investigating missing case records. A fact-finding inquiry has been ordered by the court's secretary general. This follows the discovery of a missing order from a Goa tiger reserve case. The court noted that missing proceedings have become a common issue. The inquiry aims to understand how these important documents disappear from case files.

Iran's nuclear deal window is closing amid US military build-up in the Middle East. The UN nuclear watchdog chief met with Iranian and US officials to discuss concrete proposals for inspections. Inspectors have not verified Iran's nuclear material for over eight months.

Airbus is setting up a helicopter production line in India with Tata. This facility will cater to regional civilian and military needs. Over 1,000 choppers are expected for the civilian sector. The military sector also presents large requirements. The first helicopter is anticipated by early 2027.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly condemned the trailer for The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond. He described the film as a collection of fabricated narratives designed to create communal discord. Vijayan stated that Kerala will reject this attempt to tarnish its secular image. He urged the public to treat the film with utmost seriousness.

The Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam has officially joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led Secular Progressive Alliance. This alliance is for the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. The DMDK's decision ends speculation about their political alignment. This move is seen as a blow to the National Democratic Alliance. The DMK chief welcomed the DMDK's general secretary to the alliance.

Maha Vikas Aghadi partners are not united on sending Sharad Pawar to the Rajya Sabha. Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray Sena and NCP-SP support the move. Maharashtra Congress is hesitant, seeking clarity on a potential NCP merger with the ruling NDA. Congress also feels sidelined by the unilateral decision. All three parties need to discuss their stance.

Quote of the day by Amy Tan: Renowned author Amy Tan reveals how reading offered her a vital refuge and the power to envision different outcomes during challenging times. Her insights, drawn from a life shaped by a multilingual upbringing and the immigrant experience, highlight literature's role in fostering resilience and imagination.

The Election Commission of India has directed chief electoral officers across 23 states and Union Territories to expedite preparatory work for a special intensive revision of electoral rolls. This significant exercise is slated to commence in April. This move covers states like Uttarakhand, Manipur, and Punjab, which are preparing for elections in 2027.

The Labour and Employment Ministry has prepared a list of nearly two dozen compliances for employers under four new labour codes. These reforms aim to increase accountability and minimize legal disputes. The codes, which replaced 29 old laws, mandate foundational, monthly, annual, and event-based compliances. Employers must ensure timely wage payments, social security contributions, and adherence to safety regulations.

In a bold rebuttal, Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, has called out Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his controversial reference to the revered Ramakrishna Paramahansa as 'Swami.' Banerjee passionately emphasized that Bengals cultural icons should be honored with their rightful titles, such as the cherished name 'Thakur' for Ramakrishna.

A massive unsecured database with billions of records was discovered by security researchers. It includes emails, passwords, and many real Social Security numbers. Experts say much of the data is old but still very risky because some details never change. Many victims may not even know their information is exposed, which makes the leak a serious long-term security threat.

In a surprising political shuffle, Bishnu Prasad Sharma, a formerly defiant MLA from the BJP representing Kurseong, has opted to align himself with the ruling Trinamool Congress. Sharma revealed that the escalating pressure to embrace communal rhetoric and divisive campaign strategies forced him to leave the BJP.

In West Bengal, a staggering 7 million voters might find themselves removed from the electoral rolls. Approximately 500,000 have had their names rejected, while another 500,000 did not attend their hearings. The final voter list is set to be published on February 28, but many names remain in limbo due to document verification issues.

Carl Sagans quote, Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were, but without it we go nowhere, highlights imagination as the foundation of progress, even when it leads to ideas that never materialize. It states that imagining possibilities, whether realistic or not, is what motivates exploration and growth. Without imagination, curiosity fades and advancement stops.

Hypnagogic refers to a dreamlike state that appears as wakefulness fades and sleep begins. During this brief phase, imagination happens freely, logic softens, and the mind forms unusual connections. The concept matters because several creative insights, emotional realizations, and rapid ideas emerge here. The hypnagogic state states why late-night thoughts feel profound and why strange sensations can occur before sleep.

Oil price to touch $100 as Iran nuclear talks collapse? Brent crude hit $71.41 on February 19 as U.S.-Iran war fears explode. Trump deployed two carrier strike groups and 50 fighter jets to the Middle East in 48 hours. Iran nuclear talks collapsed in Geneva. A military strike could come within days. The Strait of Hormuz carrying 31% of global seaborne oil is now at direct risk. Analysts warn oil hits $100 if shooting starts. The 10-day countdown has begun.

Job interview tips for leaving current job: A Reddit user's query about leaving a job highlights a common professional challenge. Experts advise focusing on future opportunities like growth and new challenges. Speaking negatively about a current employer can backfire. Framing your exit around career development and skill enhancement is key.

Jennifer Garner starrer The Last Thing He Told Me Season 2 release time, schedule and how to watch worldwide is confirmed. Season 2 starts February 20 on Apple TV+. The story continues after five years. Eight episodes will release weekly. Viewers can watch using Apple TV+. The season follows Hannah, Owen, and Baileys story continuation.

The European Central Bank has imposed a significant fine of over 12 million euros on JPMorgan's European division. This penalty stems from incorrect reporting of capital requirements. The bank miscalculated its risk-weighted assets for a prolonged period.

India hosted a successful AI Impact Summit with global leaders attending. The BJP praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for this achievement. The party criticized the Congress for not acknowledging the summit's success. Prime Minister Modi unveiled a human-centric AI vision. The Congress leaders had previously called the summit a PR spectacle and criticized the display of Chinese products.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with global CEOs at the India AI Impact Summit, focusing on responsible AI scaling and enhanced global collaboration. The summit, inaugurated by the Prime Minister, saw stakeholders united in their commitment to leveraging AI for human progress and sustainable development.

Himachal Pradesh is boosting its income through new rules for liquor shops, toll collection, and vehicle entry fees. These changes aim to collect more revenue after a key grant ended. The government is using technology for better collection and transparency. Reforms in excise and toll collection are now in place.

Cristiano Ronaldo invested millions in a health technology company linked to Herbalife. The software collects user health data and gives personal wellness plans. The news came with Herbalifes earnings report and helped its stock rise. Ronaldo already works with the company and earns huge money from business deals, social media, and football while preparing for the 2026 World Cup.