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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

Fortnite Server status: v40.20 Update details, downtime duration, leaks and what to expect

The servers were deliberately taken offline by Epic Games as part of scheduled maintenance to roll out the latest patch. During this time, players cannot log in, access matchmaking, or take part in any game modes.

16 Apr 2026 4:00 pm
Why are oil and gas prices up today, and will Brent, US WTI crude futures, Dutch and British gas rates continue to rise or drop again? Analysts insights, market outlook and what should investors do now

Why are oil and gas prices up today, and will Brent, US WTI crude futures, Dutch and British gas rates continue to rise or drop again? Energy markets reacted to Middle East conflict risks, Hormuz disruption, falling US inventories, and shifting gas supply signals. Analysts say prices may stay volatile as geopolitics, exports, storage levels, and investor positioning continue to drive global oil and gas trends.

16 Apr 2026 3:59 pm
KVS Lottery Second List 2026 for Class 1 to be released today: How to check the provisional list on admission.kvs.gov.in and kvsangathan.nic.in?

The Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) will release the second provisional lottery list for Class 1 admissions 2026-27 today, April 16, 2026. Parents can check the selection and waiting list on official websites admission.kvs.gov.in and kvsangathan.nic.in using registration number. Selected candidates must complete document verification on time.

16 Apr 2026 3:58 pm
High-tech labs soon at Delhi ITIs for power electronics, EV, automotive sector training

Delhi's ITIs are getting a high-tech upgrade to train youth in power electronics, electric vehicles, and automotive sectors. New labs at Jahangirpuri, Jail Road, Arab Ki Sarai, and Mayur Vihar will feature advanced equipment, VR simulators, and EV-specific training, boosting skills for industry and self-employment opportunities.

16 Apr 2026 3:46 pm
India Post GDS 2026 3rd Merit List Date and Time: Check when and how to download from indiapostgdsonline.gov.in, documents needed and more

India Post GDS 3rd Merit List: The third merit list of India Post GDS is expected to be released in the last week of April or in May. Following the past trends, the third merit list should be released in May. Students can check their names in the merit list by visiting the official website indiapostgdsonline.gov.in

16 Apr 2026 3:46 pm
Let oil prices hurt: IMF doesn't want govt to protect consumers

The IMF is urging governments to let fuel prices rise, warning that broad subsidies and price caps worsen global energy shocks. Allowing price signals to function encourages demand reduction, which is crucial for market stabilization. Targeted cash transfers are recommended to cushion consumers without distorting global markets.

16 Apr 2026 3:44 pm
Inside Lala Pad: How 20 notes and WhatsApp kept Bengals coal mafia running

The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached assets worth 159.51 crore in a West Bengal illegal coal mining and pilferage racket, bringing the total to 482.22 crore. The syndicate, allegedly led by Anup Majee, operated with fake transport documents, a WhatsApp clearance system, and a hawala network to move illicit funds and conceal proceeds from cash purchases by select companies.

16 Apr 2026 3:38 pm
'Rs 17 LPA not worth it': IIT Delhi graduate quits bank job, says 'cant sell peace of mind for a salary package'

A 24-year-old IIT Delhi graduate resigned from a high-paying banking job, citing a toxic work culture that eroded his health and peace of mind. He felt pressured to sell financial products he didn't trust and faced relentless sales targets, leading him to prioritize well-being over a substantial salary.

16 Apr 2026 3:38 pm
Is Bluesky down in US, UK and Europe? Home, explore feeds fail to load When will the services be restored

The outage appeared to be partial rather than a full shutdown, mainly affecting the platforms Home timeline and Explore feed, leaving users unable to view real-time posts despite being able to log in successfully.

16 Apr 2026 3:33 pm
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee accuses Nirmala Sitharaman of breaking MCC

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of violating the Model Code of Conduct by distributing cards to women before elections. Banerjee alleged that the BJP is misusing power and agencies to threaten voters and collect data, warning that women will be robbed of their bank account information and money.

16 Apr 2026 3:32 pm
Supreme Court dismisses plea challenging transfer of officers by EC in poll-bound West Bengal

The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea challenging the Election Commission's transfer of administrative and police officers in West Bengal. The court stated that the legal question raised remains open. This decision comes as West Bengal prepares for assembly elections. Voting is scheduled for April 23 and April 29, with vote counting on May 4.

16 Apr 2026 3:31 pm
CBSE 10th Result 2026: High scorers surge, over 2.2 lakh students score over 90%, 55,000+ cross 95%

CBSE Class 10 2026 results: The CBSE Class 10 results for 2026 saw a slight increase in the overall pass percentage to 93.7%, with girls continuing to outperform boys. The results have reflected a strong performance as more than 2 lakh students have scored more than 90 percent and 55,368 students secured over 95%.

16 Apr 2026 3:29 pm
Central government workers seek wages based on five-member families

Central government employees are demanding a significant overhaul of their pay structure. They want the government to consider a family of five for pay calculations, moving away from the current three-member system. This includes support for dependent parents, aligning with legal mandates.

16 Apr 2026 3:27 pm
This AI hybrid system makes Delhi to Mumbai trip possible for only 3000 with record breaking mileage of 45km/l

Chinese automaker Geely has launched its new i-HEV Intelligent Hybrid system, claiming a Guinness World Record with fuel efficiency of just 2.22 litres per 100 km (around 45 km per litre). The AI-powered hybrid aims to challenge the long-standing dominance of Japanese brands like Toyota in the conventional hybrid segment.

16 Apr 2026 3:23 pm
A defining pivot: PM Narendra Modi frames womens reservation bill and delimitation as Parliaments moment of reckoning

Narendra Modi described the womens reservation and delimitation bills as a defining moment for Parliament, saying they will shape Indias political future and strengthen inclusive governance. He defended womens reservation as a national reform beyond politics, while accusing opposition parties of hypocrisy for backing quotas at the local level but resisting them in Parliament. Modi also highlighted the growing political role of women at the grassroots and warned that those opposing the move could

16 Apr 2026 3:23 pm
PM Modi's Lok Sabha address on Women's Reservation, Delimitation Bill: Key highlights

A significant legislative package has been introduced in Parliament. This package aims to implement 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The implementation is planned to begin from the 2029 general elections. This move comes nearly three decades after the concept was first proposed.

16 Apr 2026 3:22 pm
Swiggy rider drags food delivery box on road after being paid Rs 35 for 6.2 km trip. Video goes viral

A Swiggy delivery partner allegedly dragged his food box after a 6.2 km trip for Rs 35, sparking online debate about gig worker pay. While some sympathized, others criticized the rider's actions, suggesting he should quit. This incident highlights growing unrest among gig workers over declining payouts and poor working conditions.

16 Apr 2026 3:15 pm
India's trade gap may widen in FY27 amid global and oil risks: Report

India's trade deficit narrowed in March, but this improvement may not last. Experts warn of a widening deficit in the coming months. Factors like external shocks, slowing global demand, and import pressures are expected to impact trade. Exports face challenges due to weak global demand. The current account deficit is projected to widen.

16 Apr 2026 3:12 pm
Kerala Karunya Plus KN-619 lottery result out today (April 16th, 2026); 1 crore prize winning number and full list here

Karunya Plus KN-619 Lottery Result (16-04-2026): Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Karunya Plus KN-619 weekly lottery today, April 16, 2026. The event saw the ticket holder of PL 561807 coming out as the winner of the grand first prize of 1 crore.

16 Apr 2026 3:12 pm
China tells travellers to use caution after 'malicious' US border checks

China has issued a travel advisory for its citizens heading to the United States. The advisory urges caution and suggests avoiding entry through Seattle's main airport. This follows reports of Chinese scholars facing malicious border checks and being denied entry despite holding valid visas. Chinese authorities are advising travelers to remain calm if questioned by US border officials.

16 Apr 2026 2:59 pm
Pakistan, Bangladesh students 'becoming' gay to seek asylum in UK

An undercover investigation reveals a network in the UK charging migrants thousands of pounds for fake gay asylum claims. Advisers allegedly provide fabricated stories, evidence, and coaching to help applicants pass scrutiny. This comes as asylum claims from Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals rise sharply.

16 Apr 2026 2:47 pm
Jeff Bezos' ex-wife MacKenzie Scott donates $70 million to Meals on Wheels America: How her Amazon fortune is changing lives

Jeff Bezos' ex-wife, MacKenzie Scott has donated big once again, and this time it is $70 million directed to Meals on Wheels America to help the senior and elderly citizens of America. MacKenzie Scott has donated more than $26 Billion since 2020 as part of her donation drives. On the other hand,

16 Apr 2026 2:42 pm
Striped vs Unstriped Watermelon: Which is healthier and which one should you pick this summer?

Choosing between striped vs unstriped watermelon often confuses buyers, but both varieties offer nearly identical nutritional benefits, making them equally healthy summer fruits. Packed with over 90% water, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene, watermelon supports hydration, digestion, and heart health. The difference between striped and unstriped watermelon lies mainly in appearance and variety, not in health value.

16 Apr 2026 2:40 pm
Samsung asks court to block illegal strike activities by unions

Samsung Electronics has asked a court to block planned union strike activities, which unions have decried as a declaration of war. Workers are threatening an 18-day strike from May 21 over a wage dispute, seeking to remove performance pay caps and link bonuses to operating profit. A potential strike could significantly impact output at Samsung's semiconductor complex.

16 Apr 2026 2:23 pm
After TCS and Infosys, Tech Mahindra in row over alleged religious bias; issues statement on Footwear Free Zone viral image

Tech Mahindra is facing online criticism after a 'Footwear Free Zone' sign went viral. The IT firm has denied allegations of religious bias and a divisive workplace culture at its Mumbai office. An internal review found the social media claims inaccurate.

16 Apr 2026 2:17 pm
Russia launches massive drone, missile barrage on Ukraine, at least 16 dead

Russia launched one of its largest recent aerial assaults on Ukraine, firing nearly 700 drones and multiple missiles in strikes that killed at least 16 people and injured over 80, officials said. The hours-long barrage hit cities including Kyiv, Odesa and Dnipro, with Ukrainian air defences intercepting most incoming targets but several strikes causing civilian casualties and damage. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged continued Western support for air defence systems, warning against easing pre

16 Apr 2026 2:15 pm
Lok Sabha's strength to go up to 815, 272 of these for women; no state will suffer: Arjun Ram Meghwal

Parliament is set to increase the Lok Sabha's strength to 815 seats. This expansion includes reserving 272 seats for women, ensuring no state or male representation suffers. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhniyam aims to provide women their due rights. This move follows the introduction of three key bills in the Lok Sabha.

16 Apr 2026 2:13 pm
Dhurandar in Pakistan? LeT co-founder, IISc Bengaluru blast accused Hamza shot at in Lahore by two men riding a bike

Lashkar-e-Taiba co-founder Amir Hamza was shot in Lahore. This marks the second attempt on his life in under a year. Hamza, accused in the 2005 Indian Institute of Science attack, was targeted by unidentified assailants. He was previously shot in May last year. Sources suggest internal rifts within Lashkar-e-Taiba may be the cause.

16 Apr 2026 2:05 pm
Iran, US narrow differences after Pakistani mediation but splits remain, senior Iranian official says

Iran and the United States have made some progress toward a deal to end weeks of conflict, but major differences remain, especially over Tehrans nuclear programme.

16 Apr 2026 2:02 pm
With just a bicycle and seeds in his pocket, he planted 1 crore trees: Telanganas 'Tree Man' proved how one person can change India

With just a bicycle and a pocket full of seeds, Telanganas Tree Man Daripalli Ramaiah planted over 10 million trees, creating one of the most inspiring tree plantation movements in India. His journey highlights the power of environment conservation, afforestation in India, and sustainable living, proving that a single individual can drive a massive green movement in India through consistent efforts and dedication.

16 Apr 2026 1:58 pm
Why are gold and silver prices up today, and will precious metals continue to rise or fall again? Analysts insights, market outlook and what should investors do now

Why are gold and silver prices up today, and will precious metals continue to rise or fall again? Gold and silver prices moved higher after the US dollar weakened and Treasury yields fell. Markets reacted to growing hope of a US-Iran peace deal and possible rate cuts. Investors now question if metals will continue rising or reverse later. Analysts say bond yields, inflation fears, and interest rate expectations will guide the next move.

16 Apr 2026 1:43 pm
LIC HFL Recruitment 2026 begins: Check direct link to apply, eligibility, salary, selection process, important dates and more

LIC Housing Finance recruitment 2026: LIC Housing Finance Limited has opened applications for 180 Junior Assistant positions and the deadline is April 30. To apply for LIC HFL, candidates need a graduate degree with 55% marks and must be between 21 and 30 years old. The selection process involves an online exam and interview, with a starting salary of 20,000 plus benefits.

16 Apr 2026 1:41 pm
New OTT Releases this week (April 15-21, 2026): Euphoria S3, Youth, Ustaad Bhagat Singh- 13 new movies and TV shows coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Wondering what to watch on OTT this week? April reaches its peak with an explosive lineup of new movies and web series across Netflix, Prime Video, ZEE5, and JioHotstar. The biggest highlight is the long-awaited premiere of Euphoria Season 3 on Netflix. Power Star fans can finally catch Ustaad Bhagat Singh, while Vijay Varma takes us into the 1960s underworld in Matka King.

16 Apr 2026 1:16 pm
Trolls, defeat and reinvention: Nara Lokesh's elevation indicates making of TDP's future leadership

Nara Lokesh has been appointed National Working President of the Telugu Desam Party. This move signals a significant generational shift within the party. Lokesh's elevation follows a period of reinvention after the 2019 election defeat. He has taken on new responsibilities and is seen as a key figure for the party's future.

16 Apr 2026 1:12 pm
Iran war exposes cost of Asia's fossil fuel reliance

The latest global energy shock highlights the risks of fuel import dependence, with Bangladesh hit hard by soaring LNG costs after supply disruptions, forcing costly spot purchases. In contrast, Pakistans shift to solar reduced reliance on imports and cushioned the impact. The divergence underscores the need for emerging economies to accelerate clean energy adoption to limit exposure to price volatility.

16 Apr 2026 1:11 pm
Delhi to Mumbai in 12 hours? As new Gujarat stretch of Mumbai Expressway opens, check entry and exit points, route

DelhiMumbai Expressway: The Union Transport Ministry, in a release, stated that the GodhraVadodara stretch of the DelhiMumbai Expressway has been completed and opened to traffic on a trial basis. Once the project is completed, the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will reduce the travel time between Mumbai and Delhi to just 12 hours. It will connect Gurugram, Kota, Vadodara, Indore and others.

16 Apr 2026 1:03 pm
Seoul to Delhi, Asias new economic axis

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's visit to India arrives at a critical juncture for global economic stability. The two Asian powers are poised to forge a strategic economic partnership, moving beyond traditional trade to co-build industrial capacity in semiconductors, green mobility, and advanced manufacturing.

16 Apr 2026 1:02 pm
Australia boosts military spending as Iran war makes global impact

Australia is boosting its defense budget. Defense Minister Richard Marles announced an additional 53 billion Australian dollars over the next decade. This move aims to enhance national security amid a complex global environment. The strategy emphasizes self-reliance while maintaining key alliances, particularly with the United States. A major investment includes a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines.

16 Apr 2026 1:02 pm
Rajya Sabha reconstitutes panel of Vice-Chairpersons; six members nominated

The Rajya Sabha on Thursday reconstituted its panel of vice-chairpersons, nominating six members from the BJP, Congress, AIADMK and BJD, with effect from April 15.

16 Apr 2026 12:48 pm
Women's Reservation Bill 2026: After 30 years, here's how India moves to reserve 33% seats for women in Parliament

Parliament is considering a new law to bring 33 percent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies starting from the 2029 elections. This move aims to increase women's representation significantly. The proposed legislation seeks to implement this reservation by expanding the number of seats.

16 Apr 2026 12:45 pm
From bamboo walls to AI eyes: West Bengal election gets unprecedented surveillance push

The Election Commission of India is enhancing surveillance for the West Bengal Assembly polls by installing cameras for 100% webcasting, monitored by AI technology. Temporary bamboo fencing will also be erected at polling stations lacking boundary walls to prevent unauthorized access and improve security.

16 Apr 2026 12:43 pm
Lucknow: Fire leaves over 1,000 homeless as 50 LPG cylinders explode in shanties built illegally on Awas Vikas land

The big fire broke out early in the morning in Sector 11 of Vikas Nagar and quickly spread across the make shift settlement. As per report, the fire erupted due to explosions of over 50 LPG cylinders, intensifying the blaze and making firefighting efforts difficult. The fire was so huge that residents watched helplessly as black smoke covered the sky, visible from kilometres away. The shanties were located on land belonging to the Awas Vikas Parishad.

16 Apr 2026 12:42 pm
Polls for nine Maharashtra Legislative Council seats scheduled for May 12: EC

Elections for nine Maharashtra Legislative Council seats are scheduled for May 12, as announced by the Election Commission of India. The tenure of these nine MLCs concludes on May 13, 2026, prompting the need for these biennial elections. The notification will be issued on April 23, with nominations closing on April 30.

16 Apr 2026 12:38 pm
BHU tragedy: Radhika Devi, 71-year-old, goes for spine tumour; doctors perform hip-replacement meant for Radhika Singh; woman dies

In a case of gross medical negligence at BHU Trauma Centre in Varanasi, a 71-year-old woman Radhika Devi was wrongly operated upon for hip replacement instead of her spinal tumour due to patient mix-up. She was partially operated on March 7, underwent the correct surgery on March 18, and passed away on March 28.

16 Apr 2026 12:35 pm
Fake mango alert: 3,800 kg of chemically made pulp seized in Pune. Know side effects & how to identify artificially ripened aam at home

Mango Adulteration Alert: With the mango season in full swing, rising cases of mango adulteration in India have sparked serious food safety concerns after the FDA in Pune seized over 3,800 kg of adulterated mango pulp during raids. Authorities found the use of unauthorised colours and harmful substances, highlighting the risks of consuming chemically ripened mangoes, which can cause health issues ranging from digestive problems to long-term illnesses. Consumers are advised to remain cautious and

16 Apr 2026 12:33 pm