The Economic Times

Federal government employees in Canada will soon be required to work in offices more often. Most staff will need to be onsite four days a week starting July, 2026. Executives will work onsite five days a week from May 2026. This move aims to boost collaboration and service delivery. The government will consult with unions on implementation details.

RBI MPC: The Reserve Bank of India on Friday proposed a framework to compensate customers up to 25,000 for losses from small-value fraudulent digital transactions as part of steps to strengthen digital payment safety and customer protection.

RBI MPC statement: The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee maintained the repo rate at 5.25% and a neutral stance, prioritizing stability amidst global uncertainties. Strong domestic growth and controlled inflation provided the confidence for this decision. The MPC's unanimous vote reflects a cautious yet steady approach to managing India's economy.

India's export growth is poised for sustained momentum, driven by upcoming trade deals with the EU and US, alongside existing pacts with New Zealand and Oman. These agreements aim to diversify exports and strengthen the external sector, with key drivers including electronics, engineering goods, and pharmaceuticals contributing to record export figures.

Congress has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This follows US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of stopping a conflict between India and Pakistan. Congress also attacked Modi's recent speech in the Rajya Sabha. They stated he avoided serious questions. Trump's claims about mediating the India-Pakistan issue have been made multiple times.

Across global events and photoshoots, Nora Fatehis bold fashion choices transform every appearance into a visual moment that commands attention and admiration.

India's foreign exchange reserves reached $723.8 billion by January 30, 2026, a significant increase supported by RBI's forex swaps and rising gold holdings. This robust reserve position provides ample cover for imports and external debt, bolstering the Indian Rupee's stability despite corporate dollar demands.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said future monetary policy decisions will be guided by inflation data from a revised statistical series while announcing the policy rate decision on Friday. He said, In two days, we will have a new series for both GDP and inflation.

Bird flu outbreak in Tamil Nadu: Thousands of crows were found dead in Chennai and other nearby regions in Tamil Nadu and they have tested positive for the bird flu virus. Bird flu, particularly H5N1, can be transmitted to humans if they remain in close contact with infected animals or through droppings or saliva. Common symptoms of avian flu include red eyes, muscle aches, running nose, sore throat, cough and fever in some cases.

RBI Inflation 2026-27: The Reserve Bank of Indias Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Friday raised its inflation forecast for FY27, signaling a shift from the central banks earlier disinflation expectations. CPI inflation has been revised slightly upward, with Q1 and Q2 projections now at 4% and 4.2%, respectively.

RBI GDP Growth 2026: India's central bank has boosted its economic growth forecast for 2025-26 to 7.4 percent. This signals strong confidence in domestic demand. The Reserve Bank of India expects economic activity to remain robust. This is supported by steady consumption and investment. Services exports also provide a buffer against global slowdowns. Government measures are expected to sustain economic momentum.

The Reserve Bank of India kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% on Friday, in line with expectations, after recent government spending measures and a US-India trade deal improved the outlook for economic growth. The central bank has cut rates by 125 basis points since February last year and had indicated scope for further easing if inflation stays low.

RBI Monetary Policy Meeting 2026-27 Key Takeaways: RBI MPC will announce its latest policy decision on Friday. This decision will influence loan EMIs, savings returns, and market sentiment. Economists widely expect the repo rate to remain unchanged. The committee's outlook on GDP growth and inflation will also be closely watched by borrowers, investors, and businesses.

Valentine's Day gifting in 2026 is shifting towards practical and personal choices, with shoppers opting for snack bouquets, grooming kits, and comfort items over traditional roses. Instamart data reveals a rise in evening and late-night orders, reflecting a more relatable and fun approach to celebrating love, especially among Gen Z and millennials.

Radhika Madans silver looks instantly grab attention, showcasing how metallic tones can feel powerful, contemporary, and effortlessly stylish when worn with confidence and refined styling.

In Rajasthan's Sriganganagar, police have arrested four people: a newlywed wife, his lover, who worked as a waiter, and his two accomplices, who killed the woman's husband in January. Anju and Ashish got married just three months back, and she planned her husband's murder with her lover, Sanjay, who worked as a waiter. They tried to pass the case as 'hit and run case'.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Lucky Oberoi was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Model Town, Jalandhar. The police have started a probe into the killing.

Valentine Week Special: Anand Mahindra, a prominent Indian business leader, met his wife Anuradha in Indore during his Harvard studies. Their relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1985. Anuradha Mahindra carved her own path as a journalist and publisher. Their enduring partnership is a testament to personal commitment alongside professional ambition. The couple has two daughters.

Rose Day 2026 Date: Rose Day 2026 arrives on February 7, initiating Valentine's Week. This tradition celebrates expressing love, friendship, and admiration through the gift of roses. The focus is on simple gestures and genuine emotions. Readers can find guidance on rose colours, outfit ideas, and thoughtful surprise suggestions to make the occasion memorable.

Manipur's new NDA government led by Yumnam Khemchand Singh has successfully passed a floor test. The assembly saw participation from MLAs across different regions. However, Kuki Zo groups continue their opposition to Kuki MLAs joining the government. Community organizations have called for shutdowns and protests. An armed group has issued threats against Kuki Zo MLAs.

Free Fire MAX redeem codes February 6: Free Fire MAX players can get premium items for free today. Garena has released new redeem codes for February 6. These codes unlock weapon skins, character outfits, and more. Players must use the official Rewards Redemption portal to claim these rewards. Codes are limited and expire quickly. This is a great chance to get free in-game items without spending diamonds.

The virtual US Embassy in Iran has urged American citizens to leave the country immediately due to rising tensions, warning of increased security measures, road closures, internet disruptions and flight cancellations. In an advisory, it said, Leave Iran now.

A significant agreement has been signed between the Government of India, Nagaland, and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation. This pact establishes the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority for six eastern districts. The arrangement aims to boost development through financial autonomy and enhanced decision-making. This move is expected to accelerate infrastructure growth and economic empowerment in the region.

ISRO Chairman V Narayanan said India is working towards the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission by 2027, with three uncrewed missions planned ahead of it. He added that crewed Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5 missions are targeted for 2028 if work progresses as scheduled.

Opposition members protested in the Rajya Sabha after the Lok Sabha Speaker allegedly prevented Rahul Gandhi from speaking. The debate escalated with accusations of ave child and onded labor, and references to lynching incidents, leading to an Opposition walkout.

RBI MPC meeting time: The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee will announce its latest policy decision on February 6, 2026. This decision will impact loan EMIs, savings returns, and market sentiment. Analysts expect the repo rate to remain unchanged. The RBI Governor will address the media, providing insights into inflation and growth. This announcement is crucial for borrowers, investors, and businesses.

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 timing: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address students today at 10 am as part of his annual flagship programme, Pariksha Pe Charcha. You can watch today's episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha on Doordarshan, SonyLiv, Zee5 and Prime Video. It will also be streamed on digital platforms such as the PMO, Ministry of Education (MoE), Doordarshan and MyGov.in

A study released Thursday found that AI image tools can easily create convincing fake pictures of Jeffrey Epstein with world leaders, adding to a rise in manipulated images linking politicians to the convicted sex offender.

RBI MPC Meeting at a Glance: The Reserve Bank of India is likely to hold the repo rate steady this Friday. Global uncertainties, rising government bond yields, and a volatile Indian rupee are key factors. Trade deals with the EU and US offer a boost to India's export outlook. However, global economic stress and commodity prices remain concerns.

US President Donald Trump rejected a proposal from Russian President Vladimir Putin to continue observing limits on strategic nuclear weapons after the New START treaty expired on Thursday, ending the last remaining restrictions on the nuclear arsenals of the two countries.

The U.S. military said it killed two people in a strike on a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in the Eastern Pacific on Thursday. It said intelligence confirmed the vessel was moving along known narcotics routes and was involved in trafficking operations, and added that no U.S. forces were harmed.

Nora Fatehi's birthday: Nora Fatehi is known for her iconic curves, an amazing fit body, and her impressive dance moves. The 'Dilbar' girl follows a strict workout regime and a clean diet to build strong core and glutes. These five exercises are glute bridges, single-leg deadlift, air squats, donkey kicks, and hip abduction.

RBI MPC Meet Highlights: All eyes are on the Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee announcement on Friday. Experts predict the central bank will maintain the repo rate. This cautious approach stems from global uncertainties and domestic economic pressures. Trade deals offer some relief to India's exports, but currency volatility and mixed inflation signals keep policymakers watchful. The decision is expected on Friday.

Uttar Pradesh weather update: The weather in eastern and western Uttar Pradesh are likely to remain dry and strong winds at the speed of 15 to 25 kmph are expected during the daytime. Noida, Ghaziabad will also see strong winds today. In Lucknow, fog is likely during morning hours and clear skies are expected.

Industry Season 4 Episode 5 early release time, schedule and how to watch are confirmed for US and UK viewers. The episode titled Eyes Without a Face follows SternTao's financial struggles and Sweetpeas risky investigation in Africa. Here is the full release schedule, viewing details, and episode synopsis.

Over the past year, President Donald Trump implemented record-high tariffs on U.S. imports, averaging around 17%, the highest since 1932, aiming to boost American industry and reduce the trade deficit. The tariffs generated significant government revenueabout $287 billion in 2025but most of the cost was borne by U.S. businesses and consumers, rather than foreign firms.

Quote of the Day: Pop star Ariana Grande's words encourage self-acceptance and loving one's flaws. Her journey from Nickelodeon to global stardom highlights this message. Grande's career has seen significant challenges and artistic growth. Her music reflects vulnerability and personal transformation. This powerful reminder offers permission to be oneself without apology, valuing existence over constant striving.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing intense scrutiny over his 2024 decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to Washington despite Mandelsons ties to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Newly released documents revealed Mandelson maintained a closer relationship with Epstein than previously disclosed, including sharing sensitive information and receiving payments.

A 92-year-old driver caused a deadly crash in Westwood, Los Angeles, killing three and injuring six others on Thursday. After hitting a bicyclist, the woman lost control of her Toyota Prius and plowed into the bakery section of a 99 Ranch Market, trapping people under the vehicle.

Indian rice export prices rose to a near one-month high this week, supported by modest demand and a rebound in the rupee, while prices in Thailand and Vietnam remained steady. Indias 5% broken parboiled rice reached $353$359 per ton, up from last week, and white rice was at $351$356 per ton. The rupees 1% appreciation reduced exporters dollar returns.