The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Kate Winslet: Heartbreak doesnt always arrive loudly, it often slips in quietly, rearranges your world, and leaves behind a silence that feels heavier than words. Kate Winslets quote I think heartbreak is something that you learn to live with as opposed to learning to forget reflects a deep emotional truth about love, loss, and healing in relationships. She suggests that heartbreak is not something that disappears with time, but something people learn to live with and carry f

Opposition leaders have strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent national address. They labeled it politically motivated and a breach of democratic conventions, especially given ongoing state elections. Leaders suggested the speech should be counted as a BJP campaign expense due to its partisan nature. They argued the address lacked substance and was an attempt to deflect from government failures.

Roald Dahl, the celebrated author, believed good thoughts shine from within. His words suggest inner positivity creates outward beauty. Dahl's life journey, from pilot to writer, shaped his unique perspective. His stories, though often for children, explored complex human nature. This timeless message continues to resonate today, reminding us of the power of our inner world.

Iran has reimposed a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz. This move followed a brief 24-hour opening. US President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning to Tehran. He stated Iran is weakened and cannot blackmail America. Two Indian vessels were forced to flee the Strait after coming under fire. Maritime data and security agencies reported immediate escalations.

Central government employees and pensioners will receive a 2% dearness allowance and dearness relief increase. This move aims to offset rising inflation. The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III has also seen its validity extended. An increased outlay of over 83,000 crore will support rural road development. These initiatives are set to boost the rural economy and improve connectivity.

Oil prices may rise again as Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil route. Tensions with the US are increasing, and talks are still not clear. Markets are reacting fast to every update. If the situation gets worse, fuel prices could go higher soon, affecting transport, daily goods, and the global economy.

Indian businesses are actively seeking ways to counter the weakening rupee. Companies are now making payments for Chinese imports in yuan, aiming for better supplier prices. Simultaneously, there's a strong push towards sourcing more goods locally. This strategy helps reduce dependence on imported items and manage rising costs. These efforts are crucial for businesses facing currency pressures.

President Trump signed a bill extending a controversial surveillance program until April 30, averting its expiration. This short-term renewal, approved by the Senate, sets up another congressional showdown over Section 702 of FISA. The program allows warrantless collection of foreign communications, which can incidentally capture Americans' data, sparking civil liberties concerns.

Manchester City-Arsenal: Manchester City versus Arsenal Premier League match will be live streamed across the U.S.

African proverb of the day highlights a timeless truth about life and success, emphasizing that true poverty is not the absence of money but the absence of vision, purpose, and direction. It explains that individuals without clear goals or dreams often struggle more than those with limited resources but strong determination. It reflects human nature, where ambition and foresight shape growth and opportunity. This proverb also connects to personal development, leadership, and societal progress.

Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer, David Oscar Markus, believes a presidential pardon from Donald Trump is a strong possibility for his client. Markus argues Maxwell is a scapegoat and would not have been prosecuted if Jeffrey Epstein were alive. He is actively seeking clemency, suggesting Maxwell would testify freely if granted it.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claims the Delimitation Bill aims to divide India. She stated the downfall of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP has begun. Banerjee asserted her government already ensures women's representation through reservations in local bodies. She urged voters to reject the BJP and its backed candidates in the upcoming elections.

India is reviewing the Maldives' plea for an extended currency swap facility. The island nation faces significant economic strain, compounded by regional conflicts. While India has previously offered substantial financial aid, current regulations present hurdles to fulfilling this latest request. A denial could further strain the Maldives' finances in the near future. Major debt repayments are also looming.

Wome's reservation amendment bill 2026 row: Opposition parties assert their support for the 2023 Women's Reservation Act. They claim their concern is with the delimitation process, not the reservation itself. Leaders state the entire opposition will back the law's implementation. They accuse the government of using the issue for political gain and question the delay in enacting the legislation.

Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury criticizes Mamata Banerjee's role in voter list issues. He states the Congress will contest all assembly seats alone this time. Chowdhury believes the political landscape has changed. The party aims to establish its presence in every polling booth. He discusses the Congress's prospects in Malda and Murshidabad.

The Tipra Motha Party has achieved a significant victory in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council elections. The party secured a majority, winning 24 out of 28 seats. This outcome marks a setback for the BJP's efforts to increase its influence in the region. The Tipra Motha Party's win signifies a strong mandate from the tribal population.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has taken over the management of 58 schools. These schools were linked to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami and its Falah-e-Aam Trust. This action follows intelligence reports and the expiry of management tenures. The move aims to ensure students' academic interests are unaffected. Authorities are working to maintain quality education standards across the Union Territory.

A Navi Mumbai resident shared a Reddit post detailing a positive encounter with local police. After a night of drinking, the resident and friends were stopped by officers. Instead of penalties, the police personally drove the group home, ensuring their safety. This act of humane policing has garnered widespread appreciation online, highlighting a moment of trust in the system.

A purported letter in Vasundhara Rajes name criticising the BJPs stance on issues including the Womens Reservation Bill went viral on social media, triggering reactions. Raje dismissed it as fake, calling it the work of mischief makers. She reiterated support for PM Modi and said efforts on womens representation are being widely welcomed.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang spoke in a podcast about selling AI chips to China and global tech competition. He explained that China already has strong computing power and stopping chips may not work. He said companies must keep improving and stay ahead. The discussion also showed tension as different views on security, business, and future AI growth were shared.

Chinese proverb of the day highlights the importance of personal responsibility in learning and growth. The saying Your teacher can open the door, but you must enter by yourself, explains that while teachers and mentors can guide, teach, and create opportunities, true progress depends on individual effort and action. The proverb reminds us that success requires courage, initiative, and self-discipline and it comes from taking ownership of our own journey and stepping forward ourselves.

The CPI has demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologize to women nationwide. The party alleges the Prime Minister is delaying the Women's Reservation Act. They also cite the President's exclusion from the new Parliament inauguration and atrocities in Manipur. The CPI claims the Prime Minister views women as political tools.

An error showing Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh as a Chinese town Medog on the government's self-enumeration portal has been fixed. The Registrar General of India confirmed the issue was resolved after being flagged on social media. This self-enumeration is part of the ongoing census process. Citizens are encouraged to participate digitally.

School bus services will resume across the UAE on Monday, April 20, 2026. The Ministry of Education confirmed the decision applies to all public and private schools. This follows assessments by the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority. Services were temporarily suspended due to adverse weather conditions. The move ensures the continuity of education and student safety.

The head of Ukraine's Interior Ministry, Ihor Klymenko, said in a statement on social media that special tactical police units stormed the store after attempts to contact the gunman with a negotiator failed.

Congress hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's national address, calling it a 'distress address'. The party challenged the PM to bring a bill in Parliament to implement women's reservation immediately within the existing Lok Sabha setup. Congress accused the government of deceitful attempts regarding women's reservation and delimitation proposals. The party highlighted its consistent stand on immediate implementation.

Marcus Aurelius' timeless reflection encourages recognizing the privilege of being alive each morning. This simple shift in perspective, focusing on gratitude for breathing, thinking, enjoying, and loving, transforms daily interactions and approaches to challenges. It emphasizes presence and appreciation for ordinary existence, offering a grounded way to navigate life's complexities.

Tornado warning: In central Wisconsin, a reported tornado that tore through the cities of Kronenwetter and Ringle left behind damaged homes and some residents briefly trapped in their basements

The BJP has pledged a monthly allowance of Rs 5,000 for accredited journalists in West Bengal. This financial support aims to provide security for the media fraternity. The scheme will apply to all eligible journalists, regardless of their affiliation. The announcement was made by state BJP President Samik Bhattacharya. Elections in West Bengal are scheduled for April 23 and 29.

Today's quote of the day by Edgar Allan Poe talks about thinking and dreaming in real life. It says people who imagine and plan during the day understand more things. The article explains the meaning in easy words and shares Poes life story, his struggles, and his famous works. It helps readers learn simple life lessons and get daily motivation from quotes.

Delhi has experienced its wettest April since 2008. Moderate rain brought significant rainfall, exceeding the monthly average. Temperatures have dropped following the showers. However, dry weather is expected to return, with a potential heatwave. The city's air quality has improved to the moderate category.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urged caution regarding artificial intelligence in the justice system. He stressed that human empathy and moral reasoning are irreplaceable by algorithms. While AI can aid legal research and case management, it poses risks like algorithmic bias and opaque decision-making. Judicial independence must be preserved from technological dependence. Constitutional morality should guide AI adoption, not the reverse.

As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir wrapped up their respective visits to West Asia, reports began to circulate about the second round of talks in Islamabad.

Meta is set to cut 16,000 jobs soon. The first phase begins May 20, affecting 8,000 workers. This major restructuring follows the company's strong push into Artificial Intelligence. Mark Zuckerberg's firm is reshaping its workforce for a more automated future. Other companies like Disney and Oracle are also undertaking significant layoffs.

The deaths and disappearances of at least 10 top US scientists involved in aerospace, defense, and extraterrestrial research have prompted an administration probe. Congressman Eric Burlison suspects a link to classified information and potential foreign actors, a concern echoed by former President Trump. The FBI and other agencies are investigating these pretty serious stuff cases.

Natalie Portman has confirmed that she is expecting her third child at the age of 44 with her partner, French music producer Tanguy Destable. The Oscar-winning actress shared her happiness in an exclusive interview, describing the pregnancy as a privilege and a miracle. Portman, known for her acclaimed film career, expressed gratitude for this new chapter in her life. Her relationship with Destable, a respected DJ and producer, marks a fresh beginning filled with love, family growth, and renewed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologized to Indian women after the Lok Sabha rejected the 33% reservation bill. He stated that the aspirations of women were curtailed and their dreams were shattered. Modi accused opposition parties of selfish politics and celebrating the bill's defeat. He warned of political consequences for those who opposed the measure.

Abhishek Banerjee urged Murshidabad voters to support TMC for development and stability. He accused opposition parties of aligning with the BJP and highlighted TMC's welfare plans for erosion-hit families and farmers. Banerjee promised piped water, healthcare, pensions, and housing for all. He also raised concerns about electoral roll deletions and rising input costs for farmers.

Delhi Capitals secured a six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with strong batting performances from KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans edged out Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets, propelled by Shubman Gill's impressive 86. The points table sees Punjab Kings leading, while RCB and RR follow closely.

In West Bengal, the Election Commission is committed to maintaining a serene and unobstructed voting experience. They'll establish a 100-meter buffer zone around polling stations to control access. A thorough verification process is in place to eliminate fraudulent votes, with voter slips being personally delivered to every household.

A victim in the TCS Nashik case has told police that an accused sexually assaulted her in 2022, concealed his marriage and later harassed her at workplace. She also alleged pressure to convert religion. The case has led to nine FIRs, eight arrests and an SIT probe, while TCS said no complaints were received internally.

Patriots' Day 2026 date: Many Americans want to know whether it is a Federal holiday or not.