The Economic Times

Iran-U.S. war: United States of America has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has lifted and then reimposed its own blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which before the war began almost two months ago handled roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply.

Trump Tariffs Refunds: Importers and their brokers will be able to begin claiming refunds through an online portal.

Bengal's election campaign intensifies as Trinamool leader Abhishek Banerjee directs party workers to reach out to all voters. Cadres are instructed to explain government schemes and development work. They are also told to remain vigilant on polling day, monitor EVMs, and report any intimidation.

Global geopolitical tensions are impacting new technology center openings in India. While the number of new centers slowed, existing ones are expanding. Experts predict continued growth in greenfield centers if uncertainties ease. The GCC ecosystem is steadily rising, driven by new capabilities in AI and product engineering.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has launched a special development package for Chennai. This initiative focuses on improving urban infrastructure and creating future job opportunities. Key promises include enhanced drinking water supply and a new cultural center. The plan also aims to expand the Chennai Metro Rail and invest in a dedicated hub for artificial intelligence and related technologies.

Iran's Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs reported over 3,400 deaths in the recent conflict with the US and Israel. This announcement follows a two-week ceasefire, with the latest toll indicating 3,468 martyrs lost. Previous reports had cited slightly lower figures, while a US-based agency estimated over 3,600 fatalities, including civilians and military personnel.

West Bengal faces heightened election scrutiny. The Election Commission has marked 55 constituencies as expenditure sensitive. This year, 100 observers are deployed, the highest number across poll-bound regions. Seizures of cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies have surged. Several border areas and urban centers are under close watch to ensure fair elections.

The Central Bureau of Investigation has apprehended a senior Directorate General of Civil Aviation official and a consultant linked to Reliance Industries. The arrests stem from an alleged bribery case involving 2.5 lakh for drone import approvals. The DGCA deputy director-general is accused of demanding payment for granting permissions. The consultant is also associated with a drone manufacturing firm.

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested a Kolkata businessman in a money laundering investigation. The probe targets a criminal syndicate operating in the poll-bound state. Searches were conducted at the businessman's residence and that of a Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner. The case is linked to alleged organized criminal activities and illegal fund generation.

Voters in Coimbatore are shifting their support away from the BJP. Some students who were inspired by K Annamalai are now considering voting for actor-politician Vijay. Former volunteers who worked for Annamalai are also stepping back. However, some party loyalists continue to campaign for the BJP, believing the party is paramount.

Iran's Civil Aviation Organization announced that international flights will resume from Mashhad Airport starting Monday. This marks the beginning of a phased reopening of Iranian airspace, with transit flights and eastern airports being prioritized. Travelers can now purchase tickets for international routes to and from Mashhad.

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is advocating for a unified national industrial land bank. This initiative aims to create an online system simplifying land acquisition for factories. The proposed system will offer comprehensive land details. Reforms include standardized impact assessments and faster acquisition processes. Uniform stamp duty is also recommended to streamline investments across states.

London police are probing potential Iranian involvement in recent arson attacks targeting Jewish sites. The UK Chief Rabbi warns of a growing campaign of violence. A pro-Iranian group has claimed responsibility for some incidents. Counter-terrorism units are actively investigating these threats. Authorities are vigilant about hostile Iranian activity within the UK. These events highlight a concerning escalation of tensions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Trinamool and Congress for allegedly conspiring to defeat the Women's Reservation Bill. He addressed rallies in West Bengal's tribal regions, accusing the ruling party of betraying women. Modi promised financial assistance and the creation of Lakhpati Didis if the BJP forms the government, highlighting women's empowerment.

Violence against women and children is a major election issue in Tamil Nadu. The opposition alleges the DMK government is soft on crime and that drugs are freely available. Concerns over safety are widespread. The DMK is trying to win over female voters with promises of increased financial aid.

Jasmin Lawrence and Eric Murphy have welcomed daughter as Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence become grandpas.

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated that the 10-day truce with Israel must be mutual, vowing retaliation for any Israeli attacks. He criticized the US for dictating truce terms and condemned direct negotiations with Israel as humiliating for Lebanon. Qassem also expressed gratitude to Iran for its support.

Shreveport Louisiana Mass Shooting: The victims ranged in age from one to about 14 years old and some of the children were related to the suspect, as per reports.

India and Germany are set to sign a defence industrial cooperation roadmap. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's visit will focus on joint development and production of weapon systems. Discussions will also cover cyber security, artificial intelligence, and drones. A defence investor summit is planned to boost collaboration and investment in the defence sector.

Pahalgam's tourism is slowly reviving after a devastating attack last year. However, several tourist spots remain shut, affecting hundreds of pony wallas. Their earnings have drastically reduced. Hotel occupancy is low, and tourist stays are shorter. Security measures led to the closure of many sites. Authorities are working to reopen these areas, promising a return to normalcy.

Punjab Kings secured a commanding 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants. Punjab Kings posted a record 254 runs, driven by exceptional batting performances. Lucknow Super Giants' chase fell short despite some strong individual efforts. This win propels Punjab Kings to the top of the table. Lucknow Super Giants remain in the eighth position.

Israel and Argentina have launched direct flights connecting the two nations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Argentine President Javier Milei announced the new route. This initiative aims to deepen economic cooperation, facilitate business, and encourage tourism. The flights will make travel between the countries faster and more accessible.

Iran has not yet decided if it will join new talks with the United States. Local media reports suggest the atmosphere is not very positive for negotiations. Iran's state news agency points to US demands and contradictions. A US blockade on Iranian ports is cited as a precondition by some sources. Prospects for fruitful talks remain unclear.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah faces internal challenges. Discontent brews within the Muslim community. Leaders close to him are being sidelined. This fuels speculation of political shifts after May 4 bypoll results. Davanagere South is a key area of concern. The Congress faces backlash over candidate selection. Potential realignments are being discussed.

India is pushing for quick progress on a key energy hub project in Sri Lanka. The proposed oil hub in Trincomalee is a strategic initiative involving India and the UAE. Officials met in Colombo to discuss accelerating the project. This development comes as global energy supplies face disruption. The hub aims to enhance regional energy security and cooperation.

An Iranian-origin businesswoman with US permanent residency has been arrested at Los Angeles International Airport. Shamim Mafi is accused of brokering arms deals involving Iranian drones, bombs, and ammunition for Sudan. Prosecutors state these transactions were linked to Sudan's ongoing civil conflict. Mafi allegedly used an Oman-registered company and routed deals through Turkey and the UAE to evade US detection.

The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Rishi Raj Singh, a director at political consultancy firm I-PAC. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged hawala transactions and money laundering. The agency previously arrested another I-PAC director, Vinesh Chandel, in connection with the case.

As the T20 series against South Africa unfolds, India grapples with setbacks after two consecutive defeats. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur champions the spirit of togetherness, urging her squad to come back stronger and embrace a winning mindset. With a focus on refining both death-over strategies and powerplay tactics, the team is ready to turn things around.

Tragedy struck Shreveport, Louisiana, as eight children lost their lives in a devastating domestic disturbance. The incident unfolded early Sunday morning, with victims aged one to fourteen. A total of ten individuals were shot across three locations. Authorities confirmed the suspected shooter was killed by police following a vehicle chase.

The government plans to continue the River Basin Management scheme from 2026 to 2031. A budget of Rs 2,183 crore is proposed. This initiative focuses on integrated water resource planning and development. It aims to address challenges in water-rich but underdeveloped regions, particularly in the North East and Jammu and Kashmir. The scheme will support irrigation, hydropower, and flood management.

Udhna railway station in Surat saw massive crowds of migrant workers on Sunday. Passengers faced heat and lacked facilities while trying to board trains for summer vacations. Police managed the situation. Western Railway stated arrangements were in place, with over 21,000 people travelling. Special trains were also operated.

The FBI and Justice Department are facing significant staff shortages. To address this, they are lowering hiring requirements and speeding up recruitment. This includes using social media and offering shorter training for new agents. Prosecutors are also being hired directly from law school. These changes aim to stabilize the workforce after a wave of retirements and resignations.

Creator Don Mancini has confirmed a new Chucky movie is coming. The film will pick up the story from Cult of Chucky and the recent television series. Jennifer Tilly, who plays Tiffany, also hinted at more adventures for the killer doll and her character. Mancini expressed gratitude for fan support as the franchise prepares for its next chapter.

The Income Tax Department has uncovered discrepancies in assets declared by TMC MLA Debashis Kumar. Seizures from his residence during recent raids revealed jewellery and bullion not matching his election affidavit. The department has reported these findings to the Election Commission. Investigations are ongoing into unaccounted money and asset increases.

Sufi teachings have long stressed introspection, self-awareness, and spiritual growth. Rather than focusing only on external success, Sufi philosophy encourages individuals to turn inward and cultivate their inner world.

An Amazon delivery driver's video showcasing a massive workload has gone viral. The clip reveals over 300 stops and 500 packages in a single shift. This has ignited discussions online about the pressures faced by gig economy workers. Many are questioning if such demands are sustainable or indicative of burnout. The debate highlights differing views on efficiency versus driver well-being.

Pakistan's central bank plans to settle a USD 1.5 billion loan with the United Arab Emirates by April 23. This move follows a USD 2 billion repayment to the UAE, supported by a USD 2 billion deposit from Saudi Arabia. The country anticipates a USD 1.2 billion disbursement from the International Monetary Fund.

According to The Express Tribune, Khanewal, a key wheat-producing region, has historically depended on manual harvesting, where large groups of labourers spent days cutting crops with sickles.

Iowa city shooting: No arrests had been made as of Sunday morning, according to a campus alert. Officers were responding to reports of a large fight when they heard shots being fired, police said.

A bouncer was arrested in Mumbai in connection with the drug overdose deaths at a concert. He allegedly allowed two individuals without tickets to enter the venue to sell drugs. This arrest brings the total number of people held in the case to ten. The victims, two MBA students, died after consuming alcohol and ecstasy pills. The investigation is ongoing.

US Vice President JD Vance will lead American delegates for talks with Iran in Pakistan. This comes after President Donald Trump stated he would not attend. The meetings aim to end the Middle East conflict before a ceasefire expires. Tensions are high as Iran allegedly violated the ceasefire. The US has threatened severe retaliation if a deal is not reached.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an unscheduled stop in Jhargram, West Bengal. He enjoyed jhalmuri, a popular street food. Bystanders were surprised as the PM approached the stall. Modi asked for the price and requested a tasty preparation. He paid the vendor and specifically asked for no salt. The Prime Minister later shared his experience on X.

Rajasthan is experiencing intense heatwaves. Kota recorded the highest temperature at 42.1 degrees Celsius. Other cities like Churu and Chittorgarh also saw temperatures soaring to 42 degrees Celsius. Many other parts of the state are facing maximum temperatures between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius. The heat is affecting daily life across the state.

Israel's Defence Minister has ordered the military to use full force in Lebanon. This directive applies even during the current ceasefire if Israeli soldiers face any threat. The army is also instructed to demolish booby-trapped structures and houses near the border. These actions aim to remove Hezbollah outposts and protect Israeli communities.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath alleged that Jawaharlal Nehru obstructed the Somnath temple's reconstruction and advised President Rajendra Prasad against attending its consecration, claiming the Congress undermined Hindu faith. Adityanath drew parallels to Prime Minister Modi's efforts in strengthening India's pride and Sanatan heritage, referencing the Ayodhya Ram temple and other religious projects.