The Economic Times

The 19-year-old Mercedes driver, two weeks on from having scored his first pole and win, lit up the timing loops around the iconic 5.8 kilometer-long Suzuka racetrack with a one minute 28.778-second lap. Set on his first attempt, it was enough to beat teammate George Russell by a handy 0.298 seconds, with the Briton making it three out of three front-row lockouts for the team.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for alleged infiltration and appeasement politics, accusing her of playing the victim card. Shah highlighted the Supreme Court's intervention in the state for judicial appointments, a situation not seen elsewhere.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah campaigned in Guwahati with a roadshow. The Bharatiya Janata Party expelled nine leaders for six years for standing against official nominees. Six other workers were removed from primary membership for supporting rebels. This action intensifies the party's campaign for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections. Polling is scheduled for April 9, with counting on May 4.

The decision, regarded as a significant legal victory for Justin Baldoni, is likely to move the case into the discovery phase, during which internal communications and documents could come under scrutiny.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized the Election Commission of India. She alleges that recent administrative changes and voter list updates are designed to help the BJP in the upcoming Assembly elections. Banerjee stated that Muslim women have been removed from voter rolls. She warned the BJP against crossing boundaries.

Indian investments in Azerbaijan saw strong growth in 2025. Investments reached $56.047 million, a rise of 29.8 percent. Over the past decade, total Indian investments in Azerbaijan have climbed substantially. This trend highlights a growing economic partnership. Azerbaijan also assisted in repatriating Indians from Iran. No direct investments from Azerbaijan into India were recorded.

India and Russia are boosting technological ties. The Indo-Russia Innopraktika Technology Hub has partnered with Indian academic institutions. This collaboration will establish a state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and Satellite Laboratory. Drone and satellite certification courses have also been launched. This marks a significant step in Russia-India technological cooperation. The initiative focuses on developing talent pipelines for both nations.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru started their IPL 2026 campaign with a win. They beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by six wickets. Virat Kohli led the chase with an unbeaten 69. Devdutt Padikkal also scored a quick 61. Earlier, Sunrisers Hyderabad posted 201 for nine. Jacob Duffy took three wickets for Bengaluru. Ishan Kishan scored 80 for Hyderabad.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has finalized its seat-sharing agreement with alliance partners for the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections. The party will contest 164 out of 234 seats. Chief Minister M K Stalin released the list of candidates. Key allies like Congress, DMDK, VCK, CPI(M), and CPI have been allocated their respective seats for the polls.

Last week in Miami, a 22-year-old young man was frustrated, fragile and enraged. That young man is the worlds best tennis player, the owner of seven major titles already and destined to take his place among the greatest ever to play the sport. Yet, in those fleeting moments, as he turned helplessly to his support staff, Carlos Alcaraz provided a glimpse of the loneliness of his chosen pursuit and the price it extracts.

Social Security payments for April 2026: Over 75 million Americans depend on Social Security payments for April 2026, making the exact payment dates critical this month. The Social Security Administration confirms that payments will follow a structured April 2026 schedule based on birth dates. SSI payments will arrive first on April 1, offering early support to low-income seniors and disabled individuals. Regular Social Security benefits will then roll out on April 3, 8, 15, and 22. This clear t

The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls is underway, impacting elections across India. Political parties, election officials, and citizens are adapting to new procedures. The process has faced legal challenges and scrutiny. Election managers are modifying strategies based on lessons learned. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant about their voter registration. The next phase aims for smoother implementation.

Guwahati's new Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu bridge is a game changer. It connects Guwahati and North Guwahati, slashing travel time from an hour to just ten minutes. This 6-lane bridge eases commutes for workers and traders. The government plans to shift offices to North Guwahati, further enhancing its accessibility. Real estate prices are already rising.

At least 29 people were arrested following violence in Raghunathganj, Murshidabad, during a Ram Navami rally and subsequent clashes. The West Bengal DGP submitted a report to the CEO, which was forwarded to the ECI. The violence involved vandalism and arson, leading to hospitalizations and the deployment of CAPF.

Andhra Pradesh Assembly passed a resolution urging the Centre to recognize Amaravati as the state's permanent capital. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu moved the resolution. It calls for an amendment to the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014. The state government hopes the Centre will move the required amendment. This will formally seal Amaravati's status as the capital.

A political dispute has erupted between the BJD and BJP over a major steel plant. The BJD claims the ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel project, initially planned for Kendrapara in Odisha, has been moved to Andhra Pradesh. Odisha's Industries Minister stated the company can invest anywhere and its Odisha plans are proceeding.

Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) is experiencing internal friction. Senior leaders are questioning party decisions and leadership. A recent Rajya Sabha nomination sparked controversy. Some Lok Sabha MPs have raised concerns about the party's dynamism. At the state level, a senior leader criticized the decision-making process. These issues follow the party's loss of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled a BJP chargesheet detailing 15 years of Trinamool Congress misrule. The document highlights issues like infiltration, corruption, and economic decline. Shah promised to stop illegal infiltration and restore West Bengal's glory. The Trinamool Congress plans to respond with its own chargesheet against the Union Home Minister.

Vijaypat Singhania, the visionary behind Raymond, has passed away. He transformed the company into a renowned brand and achieved remarkable aviation milestones. His later years were marked by a difficult family dispute. Singhania's life story is one of immense achievement and personal struggle. His contributions to Indian industry and his adventurous spirit are remembered.

India has strongly opposed the China-led Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement. Minister Piyush Goyal stated its incorporation into the WTO framework risks undermining foundational principles. India stood alone on this contentious issue at the WTO ministerial conference in Cameroon. The agreement would only be binding on signatory members. India remains open to comprehensive discussions on WTO reform.

Television anchor Savannah Guthrie has confirmed she will return to NBCs Today show after an extended absence prompted by the disappearance of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie.

Vijaypat Singhania, former chairman of Raymond Ltd and a Padma Bhushan awardee, passed away on Saturday. His demise marks the end of an era for one of India's most prominent industrial families. Singhania was a significant figure in the Indian business landscape. His passing is a notable event for the nation's industrial history.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized the Election Commission of India. She alleges administrative reshuffles and voter list changes are designed to favor the BJP. Banerjee claims Muslim women and other communities have been unfairly removed from voter rolls. She insists on proper publication of supplementary voter lists to ensure all eligible citizens can vote.

What is the No Kings protest and why is it happening now? Over 3,100 No Kings protest events are unfolding nationwide today. Millions are expected across cities, suburbs, and small towns. The No Kings protest targets policies of Donald Trump. Rising inflation and fuel prices are fueling anger. The Iran conflict adds fresh urgency. This is the third major No Kings protest wave since 2025. The slogan challenges concentrated presidential power. Participation is surging across all states. The scale

Millions of parents hold Parent PLUS loans. Federal data shows over 4 million borrowers face higher payments if they miss the April 1, 2026 consolidation deadline. Unconsolidated loans cannot access income-driven repayment plans. That blocks the Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan and Public Service Loan Forgiveness for eligible parents. Consolidating now can lower monthly payments and preserve long-term forgiveness. Experts warn procrastination risks locking families into rigid schedules and

Bengal's electoral roll has expanded with 22 lakh new names. The Election Commission is prioritizing 100% webcasting for the upcoming April elections. Cameras will monitor polling booths and control rooms. Meanwhile, an investigation is underway into threats made against judicial officers by a Trinamool Congress leader. The High Court has directed the DGP to take appropriate action.

India backs World Trade Organization talks to limit fishing subsidies. The nation stresses that developing countries and small fishermen must not be unfairly impacted. India highlights its own sustainable fishing practices and conservation efforts. The goal is to protect marine resources and livelihoods through equitable decisions.

The Pink moon horoscope for 2026 reflects a universal theme, letting go of what no longer serves a purpose. Whether it is a habit, mindset or relationship dynamic, this full moon provides a powerful moment to reset intentions.

A new update confirms retirees on Social Security just got worse news on benefit cuts, and the numbers are worrying. The Congressional Budget Office now says the trust fund could run out by 2032, not 2033. That one-year shift matters a lot. It increases the risk of a 23% Social Security benefit cut. Millions depend on these payments daily. This makes Social Security insolvency a real concern now. Experts say reforms can still prevent cuts. But delays increase risk. Retirees on Social Security ju

A significant agreement on digital trade rules is moving forward. Several World Trade Organization members have decided to implement the pact among themselves. This move aims to create a more open environment for digital commerce globally. The decision comes after previous attempts to adopt the agreement were blocked. This development marks a crucial step towards establishing international digital trade standards.

Former US President Donald Trump stated Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman must now be cooperative. Trump highlighted US influence over Riyadh. He also mentioned Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait supported US actions against Iran. Trump expressed disappointment with NATO's lack of support during the regional conflict.

At PULSE 2026, the Maharashtra government forged fifteen vital agreements within the healthcare sector, including three major deals that promise an influx of 720 crore rupees in investments. The twelve additional MoUs aim to bolster healthcare infrastructure throughout the region.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched his campaign in Assam's Barak Valley. He stated the region is now a gateway to Southeast Asia. This transformation occurred under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. The BJP's vision of integration drives Assam's development. Connectivity and infrastructure projects are boosting the region's economy and strategic importance.

Quote of the day by Jrgen Habermas: Over 70 years of influential thinking shaped todays quote of the day by Jrgen Habermas. This powerful motivational quote highlights democracy, fairness, and real dialogue. It shows that true rules need public approval. Not forced decisions. In todays fast digital world, inspiring quotes like this matter more than ever. People search for life lesson quotes and famous quotes to understand truth. Habermas proves conversation builds strong societies. His ideas dri

Perfume baron Maulana Badruddin Ajmal's signature healing water practice is absent from the Binnakandi assembly election campaign following a new Assam law against such practices. Ajmal, whose AIUDF faces an existential crisis, is now relying on AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi for campaign support.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah conducted a roadshow in Guwahati. The Bharatiya Janata Party has expelled nine leaders for six years. They contested against officially nominated party candidates. Six other party workers were removed from primary membership. This action comes ahead of the Assam Assembly elections. Polling is scheduled for April 9. Vote counting will take place on May 4.

This Quote of the day by Martin Luther King, Jr. delivers a timeless message: one does not need complete certainty to begin a meaningful journey. In both personal and collective contexts, progress often starts with a single, courageous step.

US stock market crash fears are rising as Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite fall sharply in one session. The S&P 500 drops 1.74% while Nasdaq slides over 2.3%. Oil prices surge near $100, fueling inflation worries and growth fears. The 10-year Treasury yield hits 4.46%, tightening financial conditions further. The VIX jumps near 30, signaling rising market fear. Internal market weakness is deepening fast. Geopolitical tensions add pressure. Is this just a correction, or

Justice Jyoti Singh, in an interim order on a lawsuit by Gambhir, said that as one of the most decorated cricketers of this country, he has the right to protect his name, likeness and all other attributes of his personality and no third party has a right to use these attributes without his consent/authorisation.

The Pink Moon is known as the first full moon of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Despite its name, it does not actually appear pink. The label comes from Phlox subulata, or creeping phlox, a bright pink wildflower native to North America that typically blooms in early spring.

India's economic growth faces challenges. Higher energy costs and supply disruptions from the Middle East conflict pose risks. The government's economic report highlights these concerns. The current account deficit is expected to worsen. Targeted relief is needed for affected businesses and households. The Indian rupee has weakened amid these pressures. Clearer growth prospects will emerge from April and May data.