The Economic Times

The IRS has introduced a new online tool to help taxpayers track refunds and manage payments easily. Many Americans are waiting for their tax refunds and using them for daily needs. The tool also supports payment plans and guidance. Missing deadlines can lead to penalties. The system aims to make tax refund tracking simple, clear, and stress free for users.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has taken a step towards influencing national policy by submitting a memorandum to the President of India. Their call to action includes urging for enhanced legislation to manage what they describe as rising cases of religious conversions and 'love jihad'. VHP leaders have cited troubling trends affecting various sectors, including the corporate arena.

Senior BJP leader Smriti Irani has attacked opposition parties. She accused them of spreading false information about the 33% women's reservation in Parliament. Prime Minister Modi is set to address the nation tonight. His speech will cover parliamentary functioning and legislative intent. Irani highlighted past support for the bill by BJP.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are set to marry on July 3 in New York, creating massive excitement among fans and media alike. However, the timing has sparked controversy as it coincides with major Independence Day celebrations marking Americas 250th anniversary. Donald Trump, who has planned large-scale events for the occasion, is reportedly unhappy with the overlap. What began as a romantic milestone has now become a broader cultural moment, blending entertainment, politics, and public attentio

Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted 175 for 8 against Delhi Capitals. Phil Salt top-scored with 63 runs. Delhi Capitals bowlers Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel took two wickets each. RCB aims to extend their winning streak. DC seeks a victory after two consecutive losses. The match is set for an exciting chase.

A Reddit user shared a touching screenshot of messages from their manager after a toxic colleague made them cry at work. The manager comforted the employee and promised to remove the problematic person from the team. The post, captioned amazing manager/human, has gone viral with users calling it wholesome and inspiring.

SRH vs CSK IPL 2026 match at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Hyderabad: Sunrisers Hyderabad aims to build on their winning momentum against Chennai Super Kings, with young pacers Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain expected to be key. CSK, meanwhile, faces challenges with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad's form and injuries, potentially turning to Mukesh Choudhary for new-ball duties.

The Japanese proverb 'Fall seven times, stand up eight' emphasizes resilience and persistence, highlighting that success comes from rising after every setback. This philosophy, rooted in Japanese culture, frames failure as a necessary part of growth, teaching valuable lessons.

In a significant ruling, a sessions court in Kannur, Kerala has concluded a long-standing case by convicting ten members of the CPI(M) for orchestrating a bomb attack on RSS-BJP workers in 2011, which left nine individuals injured. The sentence varies, with the principal offender facing 25 years behind bars, while the others will endure ten years of imprisonment each.

Iran's deputy foreign minister announced no date for upcoming talks with the United States. He stated a framework of understanding must be agreed first. Iran will not accept being an exception to international law. He also addressed issues regarding the Strait of Hormuz passage. The US approach prevented an agreement.

Netflix has partnered with Mumbai Indians for the IPL, launching the 'Chill Like A Champion' campaign. The first film features Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, showcasing Sharma's relaxed off-field routine contrasting with his on-field intensity. This collaboration highlights streaming as an extension of cricket engagement for fans.

In a tense standoff, two Indian vessels opted to reverse course in the Strait of Hormuz following gunfire allegedly from Iran's Revolutionary Guard. Among them was an Indian-flagged super tanker, transporting Iraqi oil. Iran has reiterated the implementation of restrictions in the strait, but fortunately, both the tanker and its crew are reportedly unharmed.

The NDA will champion women's reservation in legislative bodies through public awareness campaigns. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu highlighted past attempts and accused opposition parties of obstructing progress. The government is also focused on waste management and increasing green cover in Andhra Pradesh. Plans are underway to convert waste into usable materials and generate electricity.

Israel's military has established a 'Yellow Line' in southern Lebanon. This demarcation is similar to the one in Gaza. IDF forces struck suspected militants who approached them from north of this line. The military stated these actions were taken to eliminate an immediate threat. This marks the first mention of such a line since a ceasefire began.

SRH vs CSK Playing 11: Sunrisers Hyderabad clashes with Chennai Super Kings today. Young pacers Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain are key for SRH. CSK gains strength with Sanju Samson's return to form. Ruturaj Gaikwad's consistency is a concern for CSK. The match starts at 7:30 PM IST in Hyderabad. Star Sports Network and JioHotstar will telecast the game.

India's INS Dhruv is a vital naval asset for tracking strategic missiles and collecting crucial telemetry data during test launches over oceanic regions. This specialized vessel, equipped with advanced radar and intelligence systems, also monitors Low Earth Orbit satellites, enhancing India's space surveillance and defense capabilities. Its operation involves a joint crew from the Navy, DRDO, and NTRO.

Things are getting tense in the Strait of Hormuz! Shipping sources are reporting that merchant vessels have come under fire as they tried to navigate through the crucial waterway. This is a serious development, and it's causing major concern for international shipping traffic in the region.

Rahul Gandhi alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi is controlled by US President Donald Trump, citing the India-US deal as evidence of selling out the country. Gandhi further claimed Modi desires the AIADMK to win in Tamil Nadu to exert control over the state's Chief Minister.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are wearing their green jerseys for their sustainability initiative. This tradition promotes environmental awareness. The team is also performing well on the field. They have won four of their first five matches. Delhi Capitals won the toss and chose to bowl first. The playing XIs for both teams have been announced.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of diverting state resources for Bangladeshi Muslim infiltrators. He stated that Banerjee has earmarked the state treasury for these infiltrators and alleged she sold land for votes. Sarma called for Banerjee's removal, warning that Bengal could be lost to infiltrators.

The Jharkhand Academic Council is expected to release the JAC Class 12 Result 2026 soon, following the completion of exams in February. Students can check their scores online using their roll code and number. The Class 9 results have already been announced.

The Union Cabinet has approved significant decisions impacting infrastructure and social security. A new Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool will boost domestic capacity. Central government employees and pensioners will see a Dearness Allowance and Relief hike. The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III receives an extension. A new rail corridor in Uttar Pradesh is also cleared, enhancing connectivity.

Karunya KR-750 Lottery Result (18-04-2026): Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Karunya KR-750 weekly lottery today, April 18, 2026. The event saw the ticket holder of KD 636784 coming out as the winner of the grand first prize of 1 crore.

A passenger has reportedly jumped from the Carnival Splendor cruise ship. The incident occurred north-east of Moreton Island on Friday night. The ship was en route to Sydney. Authorities have launched a large-scale search operation. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is leading the rescue efforts. The cruise line is assisting with the search and supporting the passenger's family.

A Delhi court is hearing a revision petition challenging a magistrate's order refusing to register an FIR against Sonia Gandhi. The complainant alleges Gandhi was included in the electoral roll in 1980 without being an Indian citizen, becoming one only in 1983. The court has asked for written submissions and listed the matter for May 16.

Lok Sabha MP Naveen Jindal voiced support for Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal. Jindal questioned Agarwal's naming in an FIR following a fatal boiler blast. He stressed the need for thorough investigation and accountability for the tragedy. Jindal highlighted concerns over due process and consistent standards for private sector accountability.

Indian women's cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana scripted history by becoming India's highest run-scorer in T20 Internationals during the first India vs South Africa Women's match of the five-match T20I series, at Durban, on Friday. Mandhana surpassed the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma's record for most T20I runs by an Indian batter.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant advised judicial officers to use Artificial Intelligence carefully. He stressed that AI should assist, not replace, human judgment in courts. Judges must remain independent and not be influenced by technology. AI offers efficiency gains but has limitations. Accuracy and authenticity are paramount. Justice remains a human endeavour.

Jharkhand Academic Council conducted Class 10 board exams from February 3 to February 17, 2026, with over 4.3 lakh students appearing. Results are anticipated in the third or fourth week of April 2026. Students can check their provisional mark sheets online using their roll numbers and passwords.

Freezing food changes it at a microscopic level. Slow freezing creates large ice crystals, damaging food cells and altering texture permanently. Fluctuating temperatures also lead to larger ice crystals and reduced quality. Air exposure causes freezer burn, affecting taste and appearance. Proper packaging and blanching vegetables before freezing help maintain food integrity and taste.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation tonight. He chaired high-level meetings focusing on West Asia tensions and domestic preparedness. Discussions covered essential supplies like fuel and food. The government is ensuring adequate stocks for upcoming seasons. Contingency plans are in place to manage potential disruptions.

Dogs possess an advanced sense of smell, allowing them to detect faint chemical substances and create internal scent maps. They can precisely trace odor sources by following gradients, even in complex urban environments. Their tracking abilities adapt to environmental factors like humidity and wind, demonstrating remarkable biological and behavioral preparedness.

Chana is a versatile, protein-packed essential for every Indian household. This story breaks down six simple ways to cook chickpeasfrom zesty salads to crispy snacks and hearty curriesensuring you get your daily dose of muscle-building protein and gut-healthy fiber in the most delicious way possible.

The Supreme Court has cautioned high courts against publicly criticizing subordinate judicial officers, emphasizing their role as guardians of the district judiciary. The apex court stressed that disparaging remarks can ruin careers and demoralize the judiciary, advocating for an in-house mechanism to address flaws instead of public criticism.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared the BJP's downfall has commenced. She stated the party's defeat is evident after the failure to pass a Constitution amendment bill for women's reservation in legislatures. Banerjee asserted the BJP is in power only with allies' support. She warned those working for the BJP that its time in power is limited.

AIADMK veteran K Palaniswami is seeking his sixth term from Edappadi. He faces DMK's C Kasi and Naam Tamilar Katchi's Priyadarshini. Palaniswami, a former Chief Minister, has transformed the constituency. He criticizes the DMK's dynastic rule and corruption. Voting is on April 23, with results on May 4. The Edappadi electorate numbers 2,74,054.

India supports US-Iran diplomatic efforts, emphasizing dialogue and de-escalation. Defence expert Sanjeev Srivastava stated Pakistan's role is limited to that of a facilitator and messenger, lacking the credibility to influence negotiations. He noted China and other nations, including India, have encouraged dialogue, creating a positive environment for talks.

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed surprise at the Allahabad High Court's order to file an FIR against Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. The case involves allegations of dual British citizenship. Gehlot stated that similar petitions were previously dismissed. He highlighted Gandhi's family's contributions to India's freedom struggle and his recent nationwide march promoting unity.

A convoy of eight tankers is crossing the Strait of Hormuz. Ship owners hope Tehran will allow them to leave the Gulf during a short ceasefire. Iran reopened the strait after a US-brokered ceasefire. The closure caused a major supply loss. Gulf producers need steady tanker flow to resume exports.

Foreign Ministers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt met in Antalya. They discussed strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The ministers also exchanged views on regional dynamics. Dialogue and diplomacy were reaffirmed for peace and stability. This meeting follows previous talks between the four nations.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal alleged corruption and family rule under the DMK government in Tamil Nadu, citing bribery for government jobs and criticizing dynastic politics. He expressed confidence that the NDA alliance would form the next government in the state, highlighting the people's rejection of the DMK's alleged misgovernance and corruption.

Quote of the Day: Liam Hemsworth emphasizes that genuine passion is the key to achieving goals, fueling persistence and effort. He believes that if that passion wanes, it's healthier to move on to something new, highlighting a practical approach to career fulfillment and avoiding burnout by aligning work with authentic interest.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed joy as the opposition successfully blocked the delimitation bill in Parliament. He credited the INDIA bloc MPs and women for this victory. Stalin highlighted the planned campaign and protests that built momentum. He stated this marks the beginning of opposition unity and a setback for the BJP government.

Iran's military command has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy shipping channel, citing a US blockade. This move follows alleged US-Israeli strikes and Iran's prior threat to charge fees for passage. The strait is crucial as it handles approximately one-fifth of global oil and LNG supplies.

RCB vs DC IPL 2026 match at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru: The 26th match of IPL 2026 features Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosting Delhi Capitals (DC) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium today, April 18. With a 3:30 PM IST start, the Bengaluru weather forecast predicts a hot and dry afternoon with temperatures peaking at 37C, and minimal rain chances.