The Economic Times

Legendary AFL commentator Dennis Cometti has died at the age of 76 after a battle with illness. His passing marks the end of a celebrated broadcasting career spanning over five decades, during which he became a beloved and recognisable voice in Australian sport. Cometti is survived by his wife and two children.

Iran war: Cargo ships are stuck in the Gulf or making a much longer detour around the southern tip of Africa. Planes carrying air cargo out of the Middle East are grounded. And the longer the war drags on, the more likely that there will be shortages and price increases on a wide range of goods.

Israeli forces launched widespread strikes across Lebanon, hitting a hotel in Beirut and residential areas in Baalbek. These attacks followed missile and drone launches by Hezbollah. Several people were killed and injured in the strikes. Air raid sirens sounded in northern Israel. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacks on Israeli targets. The conflict escalates with ongoing military actions.

India's services sector growth slowed in February, with new business rising at its slowest pace in over a year due to intensifying competition. Despite this, international sales surged, and firms passed on rising costs, primarily from food, energy, and labor, to customers. Overall private sector growth accelerated, driven by a brighter outlook and increased hiring.

Fibre-Rich Foods: Good gut health is vital for overall wellbeing. A gastroenterologist highlights that increasing daily fibre intake is a simple yet effective method to support your gut microbiome. He recommends five fibre-rich foods: slightly green bananas, chia seeds, lentils and legumes, berries, and nuts. These foods help improve digestion, boost immunity, and enhance mood.

A Kuwaiti fighter jet mistakenly downed three American F-15E warplanes during joint operations against Iran. The incident occurred amid escalating regional conflict. All six crew members ejected safely. Kuwaiti authorities are cooperating with US forces to investigate the friendly-fire mishap. Iranian media had previously claimed responsibility for downing a US aircraft.

The United States, a veto-wielding permanent member, assumed the Presidency of the 15-nation UN Security Council for the month of March. As is customary, a monthly programme of work that outlines the Council's anticipated meetings and events for the month is adopted by the UN body at the commencement of the Presidency.

Billionaire Sir Michael Moritz is seeking German citizenship, citing unease about rising antisemitism in Britain. Born in Cardiff to parents who fled Nazi Germany, Moritz feels Germany's civic identity deeply embraces Holocaust remembrance, offering him reassurance. He notes record antisemitic incidents in the UK and a broader troubling atmosphere, prompting his symbolic move.

Moon shrinking: Earth's Moon is gradually shrinking as its interior cools, a process now believed to be occurring faster than previously thought. Scientists have identified lobate scarps, cliff-like ridges indicating crustal compression, suggesting ongoing geological activity. This research is crucial for understanding lunar tectonics and planning future safe exploration missions.

National Safety Day 2026: India is observing National Safety Day 2026 on March 4, 2026. National Safety Day is observed to promote safety awareness and practices across various sectors. In 2026, the theme for National Safety Day is Engage, Educate & Empower People to Enhance Safety. This day also signifies the beginning of National Safety Week.

Queen Elizabeth II believed true actions are measured by their lasting good. Her 2014 speech highlighted the D-Day landings' enduring peace. She contrasted this with today's instant news and judgment. It suggested leaders should focus on long-term benefits for peace and democracy. Her life exemplified this commitment to enduring service.

The Ashmolean Museum in London has returned a 16th century bronze idol to India. This sacred icon belongs to a temple in Tamil Nadu. The museum acquired the idol in 1967. An independent researcher alerted the museum to its origins in 2019. This marks a significant moment for the museum. The idol was believed to be stolen.

America is asking its citizens to leave the Middle East. This comes as Iran launches attacks after US and Israeli strikes. The US embassy in Saudi Arabia was targeted. Many Americans have already left the region. The US is helping with travel arrangements. Tensions are high across the Middle East.

Congress is deeply divided over President Trump's military actions against Iran. Democrats question the administration's shifting justifications for the campaign, citing a lack of imminent threat. Republicans largely back the president's decision, though some express concern about potential mission creep. Senate and House votes are expected on measures to curb the president's war powers, though they are likely to fail.

China economy: The official manufacturing purchasing managers index, or PMI, slipped to 49 from 49.3 in January, a four-month low, the National Bureau of Statistics reported Wednesday. The figure from its monthly survey of factory managers is measured on a scale of 0 to 100 and indicates contraction when it is below 50.

How to remove Holi colour from face: After playing Holi, we should remove chemical-laden colours from our face, hair and nails in a gentle and safe way. You should use lukewarm water, avoid harsh scrubbing, try natural scrubbers like besan and oatmeal paste, and wash with a mild cleanser only. You should avoid using hot water and not wash your face multiple times.

Israel Iran War News Day 5: The Iran-Israel conflict intensifies on its fifth day. Both nations are expanding military actions beyond their borders. Israeli airstrikes target Iranian missile infrastructure, while Iran retaliates with ballistic missiles and regional attacks. Energy routes and aviation corridors face disruption. The war has caused hundreds of casualties in Iran and at least eleven in Israel.

America and Israel have jointly attacked Iran, focusing on its ballistic missile sites. Specialized bombs are being used to strike underground facilities. Some above-ground missile bases have also suffered extensive damage. Previously targeted sites are being hit again. Over 1,700 targets inside Iran have been acknowledged as attacked.

Hit Holi songs: Holi and Bollywood songs go together. People play vibrant tracks to enjoy the festival of colours and also to make videos for social media. From Balam Pichkari to Rang Barse to Jai Jai Shivshankar, we have curated top ten Bollywood songs for you that you can use for your Instagram reels, Facebook videos and more.

Iran's Assembly of Experts met to select a new supreme leader, with Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the recently deceased leader, reportedly emerging as the front-runner. Officials expressed concerns about his potential vulnerability to U.S. and Israeli targeting. The Revolutionary Guard is said to be pushing for his appointment, citing his familiarity with security apparatuses.

Ecuadorian and U.S. forces, under the direction of the U.S. Southern Command, have initiated operations targeting designated terrorist organizations within Ecuador. The joint effort aims to combat illicit drug trafficking, though specific details regarding the operations were not disclosed by the Southern Command.

Afghanistan war: Pakistan has launched airstrikes against Taliban positions in Afghanistan, escalating tensions in an already unstable region. The airstrikes come amid the raging war in Iran. The potential fallout is alarming, as a surge in militant power could destabilise the area further.

Holi prompts for ChatGPT, Gemini: On this Holi, you can use ChatGPT and Google Gemini to make AI images of yourself, your friends, family and loved ones to share it on Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook. We have curated ten ChatGPT prompts, ChatGPT photo editing prompts and Google Gemini prompts you can use to create your Holi images.

Vituperative is a word that describes intensely critical, abusive language, often seen in journalism and politics. Originating from Latin for 'to blame,' it signifies a forceful, emotional verbal attack rather than mere criticism. Understanding this term is crucial for media literacy and navigating heated discussions, as it conveys strong disapproval and judgment.

Four U.S. Army Reserve soldiers from an Iowa-based unit were killed in a drone strike on a military facility in Kuwait. The soldiers, aged 20 to 42, were part of a logistics operation. This incident occurs as U.S. officials warn of escalating conflict with Iran and potential for further American casualties.

Pakistan protests: It has been reported that at least ten protesters were killed and 96 injured outside the US Consulate in Karachi after protesters breached the premises. Various reports suggest that gunfire was used against protesters, and many of those brought to hospitals had gunshot wounds. US marines reportedly shot dead protestors in Karachi with support from Pakistani authorities.

Happy Holi 2026 Wishes Hd Images: Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated with zeal and joy in India, and on this day, people apply colours to each other, distribute sweets and spend quality time with friends and family. We have curated a number of Happy Holi 2026 wishes, images, quotes, greetings, and messages to share on WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook.

The White House is reportedly debating whether to let Tencent retain its stakes in major video game companies, including U.S. firm Epic Games and Finnish developer Supercell. Top officials are assessing if these investments pose a national security risk ahead of President Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Iran war: Earlier on March 1, Jaishankar spoke with his counterparts from several Gulf countries amid rising tensions in West Asia, stressing the need for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has agreed to testify in the congressional inquiry of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the chairman of the committee conducting the investigation said Tuesday. Secretary Lutnick has proactively agreed to appear voluntarily before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Republican chairman James Comer said in a statement, without specifying a date.

Top US defense firms are meeting the White House Friday to accelerate weapons production. This comes as the Pentagon seeks to replenish stocks depleted by recent military actions, including strikes in the Middle East and support for Ukraine. The administration is pushing manufacturers to boost output and is considering a $50 billion supplemental budget to replace used munitions.

Nepal's general election follows youth-led protests demanding cleaner politics and jobs, which resulted in deaths and government resignation. Voters, including a million new youth additions, are seeking reform and better opportunities amidst decades of political instability and economic stagnation. A new centrist party, fronted by a rapper-turned-politician, challenges the established old guard.

Amidst escalating Middle East conflict, President Trump acknowledged uncertainty over Iran's future leadership, with key figures reportedly killed in US-Israeli strikes. Israel expanded operations in southern Lebanon, prompting evacuations. The US closed embassies and urged citizens to leave 14 countries as regional tensions and oil prices surged.

Summer arrived early this year, boosting sales of drinks, ice-creams, and air conditioners by up to 30 per cent in February. This early heat is expected to drive strong sales throughout the season. Last year saw a significant drop in these products. Companies are now prepared to meet increased demand, with investments in new facilities.

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Episode 9 release time, schedule, what to expect and how to watch worldwide details are here. The episode titled Tokyo No. 1 Colony Part 3 releases on March 5, 2026. Fans can stream it on Crunchyroll across regions.

Thandai, a traditional Indian beverage, is intrinsically linked with the vibrant festival of Holi, symbolizing spring's arrival and communal joy. This chilled, spiced drink, prepared with milk, nuts, and aromatic spices, is a staple at Holi gatherings, often enhanced with bhaang in some regions.

Who is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's son Mojtaba Khamenei, new supreme leader of Iran? After the reported death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US Israel attack, Irans Assembly of Experts has reportedly chosen Mojtaba Khamenei amid US Iran war tensions and political uncertainty.

Quote of the day by Kate Hudson: Actress Kate Hudson emphasizes the choice between supporting or competing with other women, warning that competition leads to misery. Her message highlights the benefits of collaboration, fostering positive relationships and shared success. Hudson's own journey includes a successful acting career, entrepreneurship with Fabletics, and authorship.

Longevity means living long with good health and happiness. Ancient thinkers like Pythagoras also spoke about it. He shared simple advice about balance and friendship for a better life. His message shows that long life is not only about medicine, but also about habits, lifestyle, and strong relationships that support mental and personal growth over time.

Will UAE attack Iran now as US consulate in Dubai witnesses fire after drone strike? A drone strike caused a fire near the US Consulate in Dubai. UAE confirmed interceptions and reserved the right to respond. Iran signaled a long war.