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Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
New York Citys rental market remains among the priciest in the nation, yet 2026 data reveals neighborhoods where affordability meets convenience. According to the report by Zumper, the citys median rent currently sits around $4,400, meaning youd require approximately $176,000 a year to comfortably hit the classic 30% rent-to-income rule.
America has imposed new sanctions on Iran. These target individuals and companies involved in Iran's missile and drone programs. The move comes as the US presses Iran for a deal before nuclear talks. The sanctions aim to curb Iran's weapons capabilities and support for terrorism. This action signals continued pressure on Tehran regarding its nuclear ambitions.
J&K Polices ACB filed a disproportionate assets case against inspector Vijay Singh Choudhary, brother of deputy CM Surinder Choudhary. Searches in Jammu recovered incriminating documents. The deputy CM called the action revenge-driven, while investigation continues.
The Bengal assembly polls will not see any booth rationalisation. The total number of polling stations will be 80,738. Earlier, the Election Commission of India had directed poll officials to rationalise stations with over 1,200 voters. This move aimed to enhance voter accessibility. Polling stations will be set up in high-rise buildings across Bengal.
Two more suspects have been taken into custody by the National Investigation Agency in relation to the November 2025 explosion at Delhis Red Fort, bringing the total arrests in the alleged plot to eleven. Investigators allege that the pair provided arms to the primary accused.
Free hotel breakfast is becoming less common. Some hotels are charging for it or removing it completely to save money. Families and business travelers may need to pay extra or eat outside. High-end hotels are more likely to charge, while budget hotels still often offer it. Guests value free breakfast, but costs and hotel rules are changing.
Travis Kelce revealed he and Taylor Swift watched a hockey game together. They also celebrated Travis' father's birthday. Kelce mentioned experiencing a blizzard in Manhattan. The couple has been keeping a low profile since January. They are reportedly planning a wedding in Rhode Island in June. Travis proposed to Taylor in August 2025.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the Union government should accept West Bengals plea to rename the state as Bangla, pointing out that the Cabinet had already cleared a similar move for Kerala.
BJP president Nitin Nabin has labelled Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as the 'poster boy of negative politics'. Nabin accused Gandhi of having ties with anti-India and pro-Pakistan groups. He stated that the people, especially the youth, see through Gandhi's rhetoric. Nabin also referenced historical events involving Nehru and Indira Gandhi to support his claims.
India's cricket team grapples with batting order adjustments for the World Cup. Abhishek Sharma's struggles are a major focus. Coaches are considering changes to the lineup to improve starts. Sanju Samson and Rinku Singh are potential inclusions. The team aims to overcome pressure and secure a win. Zimbabwe poses a threat with their recent strong performances.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin declared the upcoming assembly election a contest between Tamil Nadu and the NDA. He stressed that the state should be governed from Chennai, not Delhi. Stalin characterized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visits as politically motivated. He stated that the more the PM visits, the greater the NDA's electoral loss will be.
The Bharatiya Janata Party has launched a sharp attack on Rahul Gandhi and the Congress, accusing them of engaging in narrow, divisive politics that allegedly obstruct Indias development agenda. Union Minister Piyush Goyal claimed that Rahul Gandhi and his party are compromised, while the BJP further charged the Congress with corruption and serving the interests of anti-India elements.
Federal agents served court-approved search warrants at Los Angeles Unified School District offices and Superintendent Alberto Carvalhos home. The FBI confirmed the action but declined further remark as affidavits are sealed. The searches come amid lawsuits and scrutiny over LAUSDs handling of Proposition 28 arts education funds, attendance reporting questions, and other financial concerns. Carvalho, who has led the nations second-largest school district since 2022, has not been charged.
The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday clarified that Class 10 (Madhyamik) admit cards can be submitted as supplementary documents, along with pass certificates, to verify a candidates date of birth and parentage during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal.
More than 3 million Americans quit jobs monthly, per recent labor data. The debate over one-day notice after bonus pay is exploding online. An employee asked if they should resign after bonus payout and skip the traditional two weeks notice. The answer is simple. In most at-will employment states, it is legal if the performance bonus policy requires active employment on payout date only. You keep earned money. But quitting after bonus can affect references and reputation. Always read your employ
The Election Commission of India will release the final voter list on February 28. Approximately 60 lakh names are currently under adjudication and will be marked as such. These names will not be counted initially but can be added later if cleared.
Kantar's global CEO highlights India's crucial role in the company's future. India is no longer just an emerging market but a core focus for innovation and growth. It serves as a live laboratory for consumer intelligence and a template for global expansion. Kantar is leveraging India for research, delivery, and analytics, with AI-powered tools developed there reshaping brand strategies.
All Union ministries are cataloguing reforms undertaken since 2024. These will be presented at upcoming Cabinet meetings. The exercise covers legislative, statutory, policy, and administrative changes. Measurable outcomes, including ease of doing business and living, will be assessed. This structured performance assessment consolidates previous reviews. The initiative aims to drive policy transformation and recalibrate governance priorities.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that approximately 1.2 crore names are expected to be removed from voter lists in Bengal. She expressed concern over the deletions, particularly those under the Special Intensive Revision. Banerjee inaugurated projects in her Bhabanipur constituency. The final voter rolls are scheduled for publication by the Election Commission of India on February 28.
Galaxy S26 Ultra pre-order deals today: Samsung Galaxy S26 pre-orders commence on February 25th at 1 PM ET. Early birds can secure deals through the Reservation program. Expect a free $30 accessory credit and potential trade-in savings up to $900 on the S26 Ultra. Free storage upgrades might also be available. Students and professionals can look forward to additional discounts.
The Indian government is planning significant reforms for the fertiliser sector. These changes aim to simplify approval processes, reduce penalties for minor violations, and make regulations more sensible. This move is part of a broader effort to ease rules in a highly controlled industry. The government is seeking industry feedback to address compliance issues and legal hurdles.
At the BAFTA Awards on Sunday night, a guest with Tourette syndrome shouted out while two actors from Sinners, Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, were on stage. The BBC broadcast the show around two hours later and the offensive language remained in the programme, and on its streaming platform until Monday morning.
India's economy is poised for robust growth, with expectations of a 7.4% expansion in the December quarter. Festive season demand and Goods and Services Tax adjustments are fueling this positive trend. Economists anticipate continued resilience amid global challenges, with domestic demand and the services sector remaining strong.
Balram Mehta, Chief Operating Officer at ReNew, has departed after more than 14 years. Mehta was an early employee and led the company's wind business. His exit was announced internally. Sivaprasad Manikkapurath will assume Mehta's responsibilities immediately. Manikkapurath has been with ReNew since July 2020.
A family in Sehore is preparing to send a legal notice to the British government, alleging that a loan of Rs 35,000 taken in 1917 remains unpaid. The family claims to have discovered documents indicating that the amount was issued as a war loan during the First World War and is now seeking repayment of what it describes as a historical sovereign debt.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warmly welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Knesset. He described the relationship as a wondrous friendship and praised the Modi hug as a symbol of deep connection. Netanyahu emphasized the strategic alliance between the two democracies, calling it an enormous multiplier of their powers.
Lionel Richie is a world-renowned singer, songwriter, and music icon. Richie first gained fame as a member of the Commodores, an R&B and funk band that dominated the 1970s music scene. His smooth voice, emotional songwriting, and timeless hits such as Hello, All Night Long, and Endless Love earned him international acclaim. Over his decades-long career, he has won multiple Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe, solidifying his legacy as one of musics enduring legends.
Prepare for Mercury's first retrograde of 2026, starting February 26 in Pisces. This period emphasizes emotional introspection and relationship reassessment, moving beyond typical communication glitches. Expect heightened intuition and a call to slow down, set boundaries, and embrace inner reflection until March 20. This astrological phase offers a unique opportunity for personal growth.
The election notification for seven Rajya Sabha seats from Maharashtra has been released. Polling is scheduled for March 16. The deadline for nominations is March 5. Members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly will cast their votes. The terms of seven current Rajya Sabha members are ending in April. Sharad Pawar's decision on seeking re-election remains unconfirmed.
Handled with patience, Mercury retrograde may become less about disruption and more about recalibration, setting the stage for clearer momentum once spring fully arrives.
44% of U.S. workers about 56 million people lack access to an employer retirement plan in 2026. The Trump $1,000 401(k) match plan aims to close that gap fast. President Donald Trump says the federal government would match up to $1,000 a year for eligible workers without workplace 401(k) coverage. That means higher retirement savings for middle-class and gig workers. Over 20 years, matching funds plus compound growth could add tens of thousands of dollars. Congress must approve funding. If pas
A viral video shows a Gen Z employee confronting her manager. Her approved holiday was cancelled at the airport. She argues for work-life balance and personal commitments. The incident has divided social media users. It highlights evolving workplace expectations and the debate on employee rights and managerial responsibility.
Metallica will headline an eight-show residency at the Las Vegas Sphere this October, bringing their No Repeat Weekends tradition to fans. The Life Burns Faster stint will take place on October 1 & 3, 15 & 17, 22 & 24, and 29 & 31, with unique setlists for each Thursday and Saturday show. Tickets go on sale March 6, following multiple presales.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Speaker of the Knesset Medal in Jerusalem. This highest honor from the Israeli Parliament recognizes his significant role in boosting strategic ties between India and Israel. Modi is the first leader to get this medal. He previously received the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine in 2018.
Goyal was hailed for creating ot just shareholder value but also thousands of jobs and empowering an ecosystem of entrepreneurs across the country.
Discover 'pauciloquent,' a word for those who speak with deliberate brevity. This style, meaning 'few-speaking,' emphasizes saying only what's necessary, not due to a lack of ideas but a choice for impact. While powerful in professional and personal spheres, balance is key. This concise approach can make every word count, urging listeners to pay closer attention.
CAVA stock saw a significant jump after reporting robust revenue growth. The Mediterranean fast-casual chain plans further expansion, opening new restaurants. While revenue increased substantially, profit saw a dip due to higher costs. The company anticipates continued growth in the coming fiscal year, driven by new locations and sales increases.
UP D.El.Ed Result 2026 Out: The Examination Regulatory Authority, Prayagraj, has announced the UP D.El.Ed Result 2026 for the first and third semesters. Candidates can now check and download their marks online at btcresult.in for the examinations conducted in October and November 2025. The results include important academic details that students are advised to verify carefully.
Word of the Day: Over 2 million English words exist, yet sartorial meaning is trending in Google search this year. Readers want clear answers. Sartorial means related to clothing, tailoring, and refined style. It suggests polished dressing and craftsmanship. Pronunciation is sar-TOHR-ee-uhl. The word comes from Latin sartor, meaning tailor. It appears in fashion news, political style analysis, and luxury branding. Use it in formal writing for authority and precision.
Word of the Day: Skulduggery refers to underhanded, deceitful, or secretive behavior, often involving trickery or manipulation. Originating in mid-19th century Scottish slang, it evolved from sculduddery, which meant adulteration or dishonest practice. Today, the word is used to highlight cunning schemes, hidden agendas, or covert misconduct in politics, business, or everyday life.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, becoming the first Indian PM to do so. He affirmed India's support for the UN-endorsed Gaza Peace Initiative, advocating for dialogue, peace, and stability in the Middle East. Modi also condemned the Hamas attack and reiterated India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.
Quote of the Day: Filmmaker Quentin Tarantino believes that a deep love for cinema is the true foundation for making a good movie, a philosophy he embodies through his own career. He emphasizes that passion and immersion in film can be as valuable as formal education, a testament to his journey from video store clerk to acclaimed director.
Anthropic AI Claude impact on engineering jobs: Anthropic's AI coding tool now writes the majority of the company's code, with the potential to reach 99% soon. This shift is increasing the value of senior engineers with strong intuition and experience, while junior roles focused on basic tasks are becoming less critical.

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