The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Richard Branson highlights the message Work until your bank account looks like a phone number. This quote of the day today meaning focuses on effort, income growth, and persistence. The quote of the day by Richard Branson relevance connects to his journey in business, risk, and success.

More than six lakh farmers in Maharashtra await benefits from the 2017 farm loan waiver scheme. The state government is working to provide this relief. Under other schemes, millions of farmers have already received loan waivers and incentive subsidies. A committee is studying farm loan liabilities and will submit recommendations.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 journey faces a critical juncture. Their semi-final hopes now depend on the England versus New Zealand match. Pakistan needs a specific result to stay in contention. A win for New Zealand will eliminate Pakistan. The team awaits the outcome to determine their path forward.

Artificial intelligence poses headwinds for India's software sector, but former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan says AI will drive an adjustment rather than spell disaster. He calls for rapid reskilling and agile adaptation. While routine, low-value tasks are vulnerable, AI also opens new opportunities and business models. India's cost advantage and skilled workforce remain core strengths.

Karnataka is championing the AVGC-XR sector, focusing on AI as a creative enhancer, not a replacement. The state is committed to protecting artists' rights and ensuring fair pay. Initiatives are underway to expand digital creative hubs beyond Bengaluru, fostering talent across Karnataka.

The Assam government will ask the Gauhati High Court for a fast-track court to speed up the Zubeen Garg death case. Garg's wife welcomed the move, seeking strict punishment for those accused. The singer died last year in Singapore. A Special Investigation Team filed a charge-sheet naming seven accused. The family wants the case expedited to ensure justice.

Apple growers from Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand will protest in Delhi next month to oppose a proposed duty concession on US apples under a trade pact that would allow duty-free imports from the United States. They warn the move could flood Indian markets and harm domestic farmers. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha has pledged support for the protest.

Ticket bookings for 'The Kerala Story 2-Goes Beyond' continue despite a 15-day stay ordered by the Kerala High Court. Petitioners informed the court that sales are ongoing as the matter is reviewed. The court had paused the release earlier over concerns of potential communal disharmony. The producer has appealed, keeping screenings in play.

Kolkata experienced significant tremors on Friday following a magnitude 5.4 earthquake originating in Bangladesh. The seismic event occurred at a depth of 35 kilometers. While official magnitude readings for Kolkata are unconfirmed, residents reported feeling strong shaking, prompting concern and immediate attention.

Virosh wedding: Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda tied the knot in Udaipur on February 26. Vijay Deverakonda's jewellery included Oddiyanam, Kasu mala, Kadukkan, Kolusu, long haram. The different and stunning jewellery opted by the Liger actor has sparked a buzz online with many users praising him for his royal look.

India and Maldives are deepening their strategic partnership. Discussions focused on enhancing defense and diplomatic cooperation. Both nations reviewed regional security dynamics. Maldives highlighted strong bilateral ties and collaboration on sustainable development. India remains a reliable partner for technology and knowledge transfer. Maritime security cooperation was also reinforced.

The Indian Postal Department is expected to release the Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) recruitment results soon for 28,636 vacancies. The merit list, based on 10th-class marks, will be published on the official website, indiapostgdsonline.gov.in, in PDF format. Candidates are advised to check the portal for updates and prepare for document verification.

Speaking about the protest, Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav expressed pride over IYC for aising their voice at the Summit, adding that the Galgotias University Chinese robodog controversy and alleged theft of products due to mismanagement at the Summit embarrassed the nation.

France is re-evaluating its nuclear posture as President Macron outlines fresh thinking on submarine-based and air-delivered nuclear weapons. The move comes as European capitals weigh doubts about U.S. defense commitments, highlighting Frances central role in European security amid uncertainty. Allies look to Paris for reassurance and potential protection.

Australian shares finished higher on Friday, February 27, 2026. The S&P/ASX 200 index gained 0.25 percent. Miners saw gains, offsetting declines in banks and consumer staples. Block Inc. and Lynas Rare Earths Limited were top performers. The benchmark index achieved its best February since 2019, hitting three record highs during the month.

Pakistan launched air strikes on Afghanistan's cities overnight. This escalates months of border clashes. Both nations reported heavy losses. Pakistan's defence minister called it open war. Tensions rose after Pakistan's air strikes last weekend. Border clashes in October killed dozens. Negotiations had put a ceasefire in place. Militancy has increased since 2022. The TTP and Baloch insurgents are active.

The Supreme Court collegium has decided to transfer judges proposed as Chief Justices two months before their vacancy arises. This policy aims to enhance administrative efficiency. Justice Lisa Gill will move to Andhra Pradesh High Court as Chief Justice. Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari is recommended for Madras High Court Chief Justice.

The CBI will approach the Delhi High Court to contest a trial court's decision to discharge Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and 21 others in the Delhi excise policy case. The court found no criminal intent or substantiating evidence for a conspiracy. The CBI believes crucial aspects were overlooked and plans to present its case for a trial.

The Rajasthan government, under Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar, announced several initiatives to strengthen village governance and promote Indian products in ministry offices. From now on, the National Song will be sung every morning and the National Anthem at office closure in all Panchayati Raj offices. Only India-made products will be allowed in offices, with violations resulting in cost recovery from officials except in unavoidable cases.

The Supreme Court has stated that judicial officers will remain impartial. This comes after the West Bengal government informed the court about a training module issued by the Election Commission for judicial officers involved in electoral roll revision. The court emphasized that its orders are clear and that neither the poll panel nor the state government should exceed them.

India New GDP Data Series Changes: India is releasing a new Gross Domestic Product series today. The base year is shifting to 2022-23. This update incorporates revised inflation data and back-series figures. The changes aim to better reflect post-pandemic consumption and the growing digital economy. This revision ensures economic estimates remain relevant and accurate for India's evolving financial landscape.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court has acquitted former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in the liquor excise policy scam, citing a lack of evidence and criticizing the prosecution's case. The court found no cogent evidence against Kejriwal and no prima facie case against Sisodia and 21 others, striking down the conspiracy theory.

Rob Rausch girlfriend: Love Island alum Rob Rausch confirmed he is off the market, revealing he's been dating someone new for two months. While Rausch has kept his girlfriend's identity private, speculation online suggests she may be an esthetician from Kansas City. He recently denied any romantic connection with Maura Higgins.

The Election Commission is preparing for Tamil Nadu's assembly polls. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced measures for fair elections. Voter rolls are being revised to include all eligible voters. VVPAT counting will be mandatory. Postal ballots will be counted before EVMs. All polling stations will have basic amenities. The law and order situation is satisfactory.

Salman Khan's co-actor Daisy Shah has come out in support of Palaash Muchhal after his wedding with Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana was called off. Daisy, who made her debut with Salman Khan in Jai Ho, called Palaash a very good person and also revealed how she developed a strong bond with Palak Muchhal and her family. Palash Muchhal and Smriti Mandhana were scheduled to get married last year, but the wedding was called off.

Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal has announced jobs for 12 roles in his new startup, Temple. But along with the tech skills he has announced very important fitness requirements for all the roles. This unusual hiring reflects the company's focus on building high-performance tech for elite athletes, demanding physical discipline from its team.

Rolling Loud Australia has been cancelled for March 2026, with organizers blaming local promoters Primuse Entertainment for failing to meet payment obligations. They have also confirmed that ticket holders are entitled to a full refund. This marks the second cancellation for the festival's return to Australia after a previous indefinite postponement.

Veteran politician O Panneerselvam's (OPS) political journey has had a bold turn with him formally joining the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. He stood beside Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at the party headquarters in Chennai. This move marks a significant political realignment in Tamil Nadu. Panneerselvam cited AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami's leadership as dictatorial. He stated the DMK is working to save the Dravidian Movement.

The BJP launches its 5,000-km Paribartan Yatra across West Bengal from March 1, aiming to engage voters, and challenge TMC strongholds ahead of assembly polls. With senior leaders like Amit Shah and JP Nadda involved, the campaign combines mass contact and organisational testing, converting booth-level groundwork into visible mobilisation.

Starting your day with a protein-rich vegetarian breakfast helps maintain energy, improves focus, and prevents mid-morning cravings. These office-friendly options are nutritious, filling, and easy to prepare or carry.

The Gujarat High Court censured a GST officer for depending on unverified AI-produced court citations, which proved fictitious. The errors impacted a matter involving Marhabba Overseas Private Limited. The court called for thorough verification and prudent use of AI in legal processes, granting interim relief to the petitioner and signaling a cautious stance on AI-assisted quasi-judicial decisions.

Central bankers face political pressure worldwide. They are fighting to keep their independence. This effort risks making them seem political. Populist rivals want to influence central bank decisions and leadership. This situation highlights a delicate balance between independence and public accountability. Markets may ultimately have the final say.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described public capital expenditure as the cornerstone of India's economic strategy, noting a marked rise in government infrastructure spending to secure long-term productivity gains. This investment drive forms part of a sustained nation-building effort aimed at transforming India into a developed economy by 2047.

Claude maker and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei advised students and young professionals to focus on human-centered skills, as software engineering and math are rapidly being taken over by AI. His remarks came after he warned that white-collar jobs could disappear in the coming five years. Anthropic is the artificial intelligence company that created Claude.

Space practices offer lessons for Meghalaya's renewable energy push. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla highlighted International Space Station's reliance on solar power. Meghalaya's Chief Minister's Solar Mission is bringing solar power to remote schools and homes. This initiative improves last-mile connectivity and reduces reliance on traditional electricity grids.

Actress Diane Keaton rejects the idea of slowing down as one ages. She believes in staying present and engaged through all of life's experiences, both good and bad. Keaton's perspective reframes aging as persistence, not decline. Her career demonstrates a commitment to participation and purpose at every stage of life. She passed away in 2025 at age 79.

The Kerala State Lottery Department will announce the Suvarna Keralam SK-42 lottery results on February 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM. The top prize is Rs 1 crore, with other attractive prizes also available. Winners can claim their prizes by submitting the original ticket, identification, and a filled claim form at the Kerala Lottery Office.

The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Anjadip, a new warship. This vessel will boost anti-submarine warfare and coastal surveillance. INS Anjadip is designed to detect and track enemy submarines in shallow waters. It also supports coastal defence and search-and-rescue missions. This addition strengthens India's naval capacity to protect its coastline and maritime interests.

A Delhi court has discharged Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia in the excise policy case. The court found no criminal intent and stated the conspiracy theory could not survive. This marks a significant legal development for the Aam Aadmi Party leadership. The case stemmed from the Delhi government's 2021-22 excise policy. Both leaders have consistently denied any wrongdoing.

In Balasore district of Odisha, two officials deployed for electoral roll revision in West Bengal were assaulted by villagers who mistook them for child-lifters after they accidentally entered a border village. Police rescued the pair, registered two cases, and arrested 72 people, with more suspects being traced.

The Oscars of the Commercial Vehicle Industry celebrated its 17th edition in Mumbai, marking a historic milestone for Commercial Vehicle magazine's 20th anniversary. Tata Motors and VECV led the charge with top honours, while discussions focused on AI-driven mobility and building for the next 25 years.

The Delhi excise policy case witnessed a dramatic twist as the Rouse Avenue Court refused to accept the CBI chargesheet against Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, effectively discharging both leaders. An emotional Kejriwal addressed the outcome, and his wife Sunita Kejriwal shared her sense of relief online.

President Droupadi Murmu took to the skies as co-pilot in Light Combat Helicopter Prachand during a sortie conducted near the India-Pakistan border in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Dressed in an olive green flight suit and helmet, she received a detailed pre-flight briefing before boarding the aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics as Indias first homegrown combat helicopter.

Rohit Sharma and Kevin Pietersen engaged in a fun batting challenge on 'The Switch,' aiming to score 250 points by hitting targets. Despite an 'easy' round proving difficult, Rohit ultimately clinched victory in the 'impossible' round with a final shot, securing 250 cricket kits for young players and reflecting on his own early cricketing journey.

Eight more cheetahs are arriving from Africa to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh on Saturday morning. These big cats will be released into enclosures as part of India's cheetah revival program. This marks the third batch of cheetahs from Africa, increasing India's cheetah population to 46. The cheetahs will undergo a month-long quarantine upon arrival.