The Economic Times

India's sugar production for the 2025-26 season is now projected at 28.3 million tonnes. This revision comes after adverse weather conditions affected yields in key producing states like Maharashtra and Karnataka. Despite the downward revision, output is still expected to surpass the previous season's production. Ethanol diversion will account for a portion of the gross production.

Karnataka Budget 2026: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the 2026-27 State Budget. The budget focuses on technology-driven growth, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. Key announcements include AI centers in Bengaluru and a Leopard Rehabilitation Centre. A World Bank-funded program will address Bengaluru flooding. The Chief Minister also highlighted the impact of GST rate rationalisation on state collections.

International Women's Day in 2026: International Women's Day in 2026 will be observed on March 8 and every year it is celebrated on the same day. Women's Day across the globe and in India will be observed on Sunday, March 8. This year's theme for International Women's Day by UN is Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls and it also focuses on 'Give to Gain'.

R N Ravi, Tamil Nadu Governor, has been appointed Governor of West Bengal. DMK MP P Wilson criticised the move, stating Ravi's appointments harm the Constitution and federal structure. He expressed sadness for West Bengal and the Trinamool Congress. Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar will now serve as Tamil Nadu Governor.

EAM S Jaishankar stated that freezing the post-1945 world order was unrealistic, as power has spread out across various domains. Predicting a more multipolar future driven by technology and demographics, he argued that no single country can remain an overall hegemon in today's rapidly changing global landscape.

The Ottawa Senators have traded veteran forward David Perron to the Detroit Red Wings. This move happened just before the NHL trade deadline. Perron returns to Detroit, where he previously played. The Senators also acquired forward Warren Foegele earlier. Both teams are competing for playoff spots in the Atlantic Division.

A rare West Bengal mango, the Kohitur, is gaining attention for its exclusivity and high price, reportedly costing over Rs 1,500 per piece. Originating from Murshidabad's royal past, its extremely limited harvest and delicate handling, including wrapping in cotton and using wooden knives, make it a coveted luxury fruit, highlighting India's rich agricultural heritage.

India secured a spot in the 2026 T20 World Cup final after a thrilling seven-run victory over England. The match featured exceptional batting displays from both sides, with numerous boundaries and sixes. A remarkable catch by Axar Patel proved pivotal in the closing stages. Sanju Samson's explosive innings set the stage for India's win.

West Asian tensions could hike global energy prices, impacting India's oil imports and inflation. Despite foreign investor pullbacks, strong domestic inflows from SIPs and NPS are stabilizing India's equity markets. The economy shows signs of acceleration with robust loan growth and improved corporate earnings, though AI poses a long-term challenge to the IT sector.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will begin a sit-in protest in Kolkata on Friday. The protest targets alleged arbitrary deletions from electoral rolls. This action precedes a visit by the Election Commission. The ruling party claims the deletions are politically motivated and could disenfranchise voters. Over 63 lakh names have been removed from the voter list.

Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, was a renowned 19th-century American author and humorist whose life along the Mississippi River profoundly shaped his storytelling. His classic novels, like 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,' explore themes of friendship and morality. Twain's enduring legacy lies in his wit, sharp social commentary, and significant contribution to American literature.

Petrol, diesel prices March 6, 2026: Petrol and diesel prices have remained largely the same in major Indian cities despite fluctuations in the global crude prices due to the widening West Asia conflict. The petrol price has crossed Rs 100 mark in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Kolkata. Diesel prices are below the Rs 100 mark.

Collagen-rich foods: Dermatologist Jushya Bhatia Sarin shared insights on collagen-boosting foods, ranking them by their effectiveness in stimulating production or protecting existing collagen. Citrus fruits and bone broth received top ratings for their direct contributions to collagen synthesis and structure, highlighting the importance of diet for skin health.

As tensions rise, the US is strategically countering China's expanding influence in Latin America by implementing travel restrictions and advising nations on the risks associated with Chinese investments. Meanwhile, China is not backing down, ramping up its engagement through infrastructure loans and favorable trade agreements.

Iran-Israel War: The Kurdistan Regional Government firmly rejects allegations of joining any anti-Iran campaign, countering claims that they are supplying arms to Kurdish dissident factions. Simultaneously, reports emerge that the CIA is providing support to Kurdish forces with the intent of sparking rebellion. In response, Iran's IRGC asserts its preparedness for an extended conflict, signaling the introduction of new military assets.

Middle East War: Heavy attacks were reported in Tehran on Friday after Israel said it was hitting egime infrastructure in a ew phase of the war it launched with the United States against Iran. Early Friday, Iranian media reported heavy strikes in the capital, Tehran, shortly after Israel announced it was striking egime infrastructure in the city.

Sanju Samson has made a dream comeback for India in the T20 World Cup. Revealing his gameplan after the England Semifinal, he said he focused on his batting basics and ignored external distractions. This approach helped him perform well in key matches against Zimbabwe, England, and West Indies. Samson's return to form is a significant boost for the Indian team.

Quote of the day by Marie Curie: International Women's Day 2026 celebrates women's achievements. Marie Curie's life and words on perseverance and self-confidence offer powerful inspiration. Her journey shows how dedication overcomes barriers. This message encourages women and girls to pursue ambitions fearlessly. Curie's legacy reminds us that determination can change the world.

Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Sankashti Chaturthi 2026, an auspicious festival of Hindus dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is being observed today. The devotees break their fast after sighting the moon and for today, the moonrise timing is 9.14 pm. People take a holy bath, offer ladoos and meetha paan to Lord Ganesha and chant mantras.

Asian fuel oil traders face supply challenges due to the Iran war disrupting shipments from the Middle East. They are now looking to Western sources for replacement cargoes. This situation is expected to cause further increases in bunker fuel prices at key ports like Singapore. Vessel owners will see refuelling costs rise, impacting the prices of transported goods.

Security remained on high alert in Srinagar's Lal Chowk in Jammu and Kashmir as a precautionary measure following the protests by Shia Muslims against the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu government has banned private schools from holding political, ideological, or communal events on their grounds. This aims to keep school campuses neutral academic zones. The new rules apply at all times, including holidays. Non-political and non-sectarian events may be allowed with prior permission. This policy follows a recent controversy involving a school in Cuddalore.

Alliance of the United Liberation Front of Assam (I), Bangladeshi tribal armed group Parbattya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (PCJSS) headed by Jyotirindra Bodhipriyo Larma in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) and Rohingya Solidarity Organisation (RSO) can cause disturbance during Assams forthcoming Assembly elections-The Centre for North East India Security Studies

Costco Canada is recalling Delici Dubai Style Chocolate Mousse due to undeclared cashew and macadamia nut allergens. The manufacturer, Mellow Food, warned that these nuts could cause severe, life-threatening allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Consumers with nut allergies are urged not to consume the product and can return it to Costco for a full refund.

Nepal's new Rastriya Swatantra Party is leading in early election results. The party, formed this year, is ahead in many constituencies. Former rapper Balendra Shah, also Kathmandu's mayor, is a key figure. This election follows protests that toppled the previous government. Vote counting continues, with results expected soon. The RSP's strong performance signals a shift in Nepal's political landscape.

K Kavitha, former BRS leader and daughter of K Chandrashekhar Rao, will soon launch a new political party for Telangana. This announcement follows her discharge from the Delhi Excise Policy case. Kavitha expressed gratitude at Tirupati Balaji Temple. She stated the party will be regional and work for Telangana's people. The Union government's actions were described as a witch hunt.

Three suspended Congress MLAs have joined the ruling BJP in Assam. This move comes just a month before the assembly polls. The MLAs stated their decision was for the larger interests of Assam and the country. They expressed a desire to work with BJP policies for development and security.

A nursing home collapsed in Belo Horizonte, Brazil on Thursday. At least eight people died in the incident. Firefighters are searching for four missing individuals. Twenty-nine people were inside the four-story building. The structure also housed apartments and a cosmetic clinic. The cause of the collapse is under investigation.

Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE President, stated the nation faced an unprecedented 1,000+ attacks from Iran within days. While exercising restraint and seeking diplomacy, he reaffirmed the UAE's readiness to defend its sovereignty, noting that Iran is becoming increasingly isolated internationally amid the escalating military reality.

Kristi Noem will step down as U.S. Homeland Security Secretary after controversy over a $220 million advertising campaign promoting the administrations immigration crackdown. Her position became untenable after she told Congress the campaign went through a competitive bidding process and had President Donald Trumps approval, before later acknowledging the contract had not been competitively bid.

Three Australian Navy members were aboard a US submarine that sank an Iranian ship. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed their presence but stressed they took no part in the attack. The incident occurred off Sri Lanka's coast. Sri Lankan officials recovered bodies and rescued survivors. This highlights Australia's growing submarine program cooperation with the US.

Israel decided in November to eliminate Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with the plan later accelerated amid unrest in Iran, Defence Minister Israel Katz said. The killing occurred during the launch of Operations Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, followed by continued Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military and security infrastructure in Tehran.

Chardham Yatra registration 2026: Online registration for the 2026 Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has commenced. Char Dham temples will open in phases from April 19. For Chardham Yatra a mandatory registration is required. The online registration has started while the offline registraion will begin closer to the temple opening of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.

A Yiddish word, verklempt, describes being overcome with emotion. It captures that choked feeling when words fail due to happiness, sadness, or deep sentiment. This word, popular in American culture, offers a unique way to express profound feelings. It highlights moments where emotions are stronger than speech, resonating with deeply human experiences.

The National Democratic Alliance has nominated candidates for all three Rajya Sabha seats in Assam. Opposition parties could not unite to field a joint candidate. This situation highlights a lack of consensus among opposition groups in the state. The ruling BJP stated that this effectively makes Assam politics opposition-less.

Vijay Thalapathy Wife: Thalapathy Vijay's personal life is under intense scrutiny. Reports suggest his wife, Sangeetha Sornalingam, has filed for divorce after 26 years of marriage. These rumors gained traction after Vijay was seen with actress Trisha Krishnan at a wedding. Neither Vijay nor Sangeetha has confirmed the divorce. Online speculation links Trisha to the situation.

Taranjit Singh Sandhu, an experienced diplomat who has had vast experience, has been appointed as the new Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, replacing VK Saxena. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, India's ex-ambassador to the US, studied history from St Stephens' College in Delhi and holds an MA in international relations from Jawaharlal Nehru.

MP DA Hike News: Madhya Pradesh government employees will soon see their dearness allowance (DA) jump to 58%, matching the central government's rate. This significant hike, effective April 2026, will also include the payment of pending arrears in installments. Pensioners will also benefit from increased dearness relief. This move aims to combat inflation and boost employee purchasing power.

Police likely prevented serious violence at Melbourne's Moomba Festival on Thursday night after arresting a group of eight armed teens. Officers discovered machetes, a meat cleaver, flick knives, knuckle dusters, balaclavas, and drugs. Two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, were taken into custody, with one charged with possessing a prohibited weapon.

Congress MP Manish Tewari on Friday questioned the Centre over sovereignty as the United States allowed a 30-day waiver for India to purchase Russian oil amid a crisis in the Gulf hampering shipping routes that pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Israel Iran News Live: The Israel-Iran conflict intensifies. Fresh strikes hit Tehran, while missiles are intercepted in the Gulf. Lebanon sees rising casualties. The war is spreading, drawing in more nations. Military alerts are high, with governments warning of economic and security risks. The region faces a growing possibility of a broader confrontation.

Balen Shah Nepal Election 2026: Balendra Shah, also known as Balen Shah, is a rapper-turned politician and also a frontrunner for the Prime Minister's post in the recently concluded Nepal Election 2026. The 35-year-old is favourite among young people of the Himalayan nation and the name of his party is Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). One of Balen Shah's most recognised songs, Balidan (sacrifice), was released in 2019 and has received more than 12 million views on YouTube.

American forces have struck an Iranian drone carrier, setting it ablaze. This is part of a larger military campaign against Iran, Operation Epic Fury. US bombers have hit nearly 200 targets. Iranian retaliatory attacks have significantly decreased. The US is also dismantling Iran's missile production capabilities.

Foxconn chairman Young Liu said the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran has had limited impact on the company, adding that he expects 2026 to be a very good year for the tech manufacturer.

According to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Change of Guard ceremony is a longstanding military tradition whose origins date back to ancient times. Historically, guards and sentries stationed at palaces, forts, and defence establishments were replaced at regular intervals to allow a fresh group of troops to assume duty.