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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

Leader of opposition not allotted room in Bengal assembly: TMC

The Trinamool Congress has raised concerns about the functioning of democratic institutions in the West Bengal assembly. The party alleges that the Leader of the Opposition has not been provided with a room. Trinamool Congress legislators are reportedly sitting in the assembly lobby. The party has warned of a protest if the room allotment is further delayed.

22 May 2026 4:19 pm
Bengal govt launches verification drive for Annapurna Yojana beneficiaries ahead of rollout

West Bengal is preparing for the Annapurna Yojana, a new financial assistance scheme for women. A thorough verification of beneficiaries is underway to ensure a clean and accurate database. This exercise aims to remove ineligible names and authenticate genuine recipients. The scheme, offering a monthly allowance, will commence on June 1.

22 May 2026 4:14 pm
CBSE reevaluation 2026 shocker: Student reports answer sheet photocopy fee jumped to nearly Rs 3 lakh for 4 papers

CBSE reevaluation 2026 Class 12: CBSE's post-result troubles escalated as students reported shocking and rapidly changing reevaluation fees on the board's portal. This follows days of complaints about crashing pages, failed payments, and unreadable answer-sheet scans, causing widespread frustration and distrust in the system.

22 May 2026 4:10 pm
RBI declares record Rs 2.87 lakh crore dividend to cushion war shock

The Reserve Bank of India announced a record surplus transfer to the government for FY27, though it falls short of budget estimates. This significant payout, driven by foreign exchange gains and investment income, provides a crucial fiscal buffer amidst rising energy prices and economic pressures.

22 May 2026 4:06 pm
NEET-UG re-test June 21: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assures error-free exam amid irregularities

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said tough decisions were required in the wake of the NEET-UG irregularities and assured that the government is committed to ensuring deserving students do not lose opportunities because of examination malpractice. Emphasising efforts to restore trust in the system, he said authorities are working to make the June 21 re-test completely error-free. Pradhan acknowledged the mental distress faced by nearly 22 lakh students and said corrective measures are

22 May 2026 4:02 pm
Madhya Pradesh HC allows second postmortem of Twisha Sharma, say her family members

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has allowed a second postmortem for Twisha Sharma. Sharma, a model and actor, was found dead at her Bhopal home. Her family alleges dowry harassment. The court directed the state to arrange a medical team from AIIMS Delhi. This follows a lower court's rejection of the family's plea.

22 May 2026 4:02 pm
Planet Parade this weekend: How to see Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury shine together after sunset

Planetary alignments continue to capture public fascination because they make astronomy feel approachable and easy to experience. Unlike distant deep-space events that require telescopes or specialized equipment, bright planets can often be spotted with the naked eye from suburban backyards, rooftops and public parks.

22 May 2026 3:59 pm
Donald Trump immunity from IRS audit shocks experts, who warn it could undermine trust in tax system

Donald Trump's tax probes have ended. The Internal Revenue Service agreed to drop all pending investigations into the former president's tax payments. This decision came as part of a settlement for a lawsuit Trump filed over a leak of his tax returns. The agreement grants Trump and his organisation immunity from future examinations of current tax filings.

22 May 2026 3:54 pm
Sports development fund pilferage demoralising sportspersons: Congress

The Congress has alleged that funds from the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), intended to support athletes, were diverted for the construction and maintenance of sports facilities at IAS officers residences. Calling the alleged misuse of funds a setback for sportspersons, the party said it has discouraged athletes and contributed to a sharp decline in donations to the fund. Congress has demanded corrective action and accountability, urging the government to address the concerns and ensur

22 May 2026 3:49 pm
Warsh takes over Fed with a policy problem already in view

Kevin Warsh takes charge as the new Fed leader. He faces a critical juncture for the economy and monetary policy. Inflation is high and could rise further. Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries. Warsh must decide whether to raise interest rates to combat inflation. His actions will be closely watched by markets and President Trump.

22 May 2026 3:48 pm
India's informal job generation marked key milestone in January-March 2026

India's informal sector employment has surged past 15 crore for the first time during January-March. This marks a significant 15% increase year-on-year. The number of businesses in this sector also grew by nearly 17%. Services led this expansion, showing strong entrepreneurial activity and demand.

22 May 2026 3:47 pm
Decided to bring back to India some persons deported to Bangladesh: Centre to SC

The Indian government will bring back individuals previously deported to Bangladesh. These people will then have their claims of Indian citizenship verified. The Supreme Court was informed of this decision. The process is expected to take about ten days. The court will hear the matter again in July. This move follows a High Court order that termed the deportations illegal.

22 May 2026 3:45 pm
Funny old world: The week's offbeat news

From Donald Trump's fans in Bangladesh to a scandal over hot priests in Rome. - Fallen angels - In a shock akin to the pope embracing Buddhism, a sexy priest who adorns thousands of calendars sold to tourists in Rome has revealed that he was never a man of the cloth.

22 May 2026 3:44 pm
Maharashtra's economy to surpass those of Singapore, UAE in 2 to 3 years: Fadnavis

Maharashtra's economy is set to outpace Singapore and the UAE within two to three years. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis highlighted rapid growth in innovation, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure as key drivers. The state is already the world's 30th largest economy and aims for a USD 1 trillion economy by 2030. Technology and AI are central to this ambitious development plan.

22 May 2026 3:42 pm
5 pink-coloured drinks that help reduce body heat naturally

When temperatures start soaring, nothing feels better than a chilled drink that actually helps cool the body down. Interestingly, many naturally pink drinks are made using ingredients like rose, watermelon, berries and beetroot, foods known for their high water content and refreshing properties.

22 May 2026 3:42 pm
She waited decades to become a mother, wanted to send him abroad: Delhi woman and adopted son found murdered at home days after Manali trip

A mother and her adopted teenage son were brutally stabbed to death in Southeast Delhi. The 40-year-old woman, Sharda, and her son, Kushal, were found with multiple stab wounds. Family members expressed deep grief, remembering Kushal as a bright, artistic child with a promising future, and Sharda as a loving homemaker. Relatives are seeking justice for the heinous crime.

22 May 2026 3:38 pm
Cockroach Janta Party's Instagram followers are now double BJP's, but it may still not beat India's political giants; UPSC teacher explains why

A satirical online group, the Cockroach Janta Party, is outperforming major Indian parties on Instagram, sparking debate on viral popularity versus electoral power. Political commentator Shekhar Dutt cautions against mistaking online engagement for on-ground support, emphasizing that Indian elections still hinge on trust, local leadership, and years of groundwork, not just digital trends.

22 May 2026 3:37 pm
StanChart CEO apologises for 'upset caused' by AI comments

Standard Chartered CEO Bill Winters has apologized for comments about artificial intelligence replacing workers. He stated that the bank is investing in AI technology. This move is expected to lead to job cuts. Winters clarified his remarks, emphasizing the bank's commitment to its employees. Regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore are seeking more information.

22 May 2026 3:28 pm
Bengal SIR: Tribunals dispose of 6,581 appeals so far, allow 61.5% cases back in voter rolls

West Bengal's appellate tribunals have processed only a small percentage of nearly 25 lakh appeals concerning electoral roll revisions. Out of over 6,500 cases decided, about 61.5 percent were allowed, reinstating names on voter lists. Many appeals remain pending. Tribunals were formed following Supreme Court directives to address grievances.

22 May 2026 3:25 pm
'Traffic jam on Mount Everest': Think Manali is crowded? Worlds highest peak just saw record 274 climbers reaching summit in one single day

A record 274 climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest from the Nepali side on Wednesday, marking the highest number of single-day ascents ever recorded from Nepal. The surge came as Chinese authorities reportedly did not issue climbing permits for the Tibetan side this season. Despite ongoing concerns about overcrowding and safety risks on the mountain, some expedition operators say large numbers of climbers can still be managed safely with proper planning, oxygen supplies and experienced su

22 May 2026 3:25 pm
SC grants bail to accused in UAPA case over recruitment of 'hybrid' terrorists

The Supreme Court has granted bail to Suhail Ahmad Thokar. He was arrested in a UAPA case related to alleged conspiracy with terrorist groups. Thokar was accused of recruiting terrorists and radicalizing youth. The court considered his period of custody. The trial is expected to take time. He will be released on bail after furnishing a bond.

22 May 2026 3:19 pm
CBSE's digital evaluation system likely to continue next year; sources defend mechanism amid OSM controversy

Even as CBSE's newly introduced On-Screen Marking (OSM) system continues to face backlash, Education Ministry sources indicated that the digital evaluation mechanism is likely to continue next year, with the board expected to take a final call after reviewing the process and feedback received this year.

22 May 2026 3:12 pm
'Nail scratches, eardrum ruptured, head slammed against wall': Family of Delhi woman claims beatings never stopped over dowry demands

A 25-year-old woman died after allegedly falling from her terrace in West Delhi, with her brother alleging dowry harassment and abuse by her in-laws. The family claimed she had nail scratches and her head was slammed against wall with her eardrum ruptured. Veena Kumari reportedly told her sister she was being assaulted just minutes before the fatal incident. Police have arrested her husband and his brother.

22 May 2026 3:07 pm
Delhi government to develop 100 'oxygen parks' to improve city climate: CM Rekha Gupta

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the plan to develop 100 oxygen parks. The first park is coming up in Mukhmelpur village. These parks will feature dense tree cover, including fruit-bearing trees. The initiative aims to improve the city's climate and address pollution concerns.

22 May 2026 3:05 pm
India dominates World's 100 Hottest Cities list for second week in a row; check all names

Indian cities are currently the hottest globally, with 97 out of the top 100 hottest locations. Cities in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha are experiencing extreme heat. Temperatures are reaching punishing highs, with little relief even at night. This prolonged heatwave is impacting public health, leading to increased cases of heat-related illnesses.

22 May 2026 3:03 pm
CCI levies Rs 50 lakh penalty on Manipal Group for not disclosing stake hike in Aakash Educational Services

The Competition Commission of India has fined Manipal Group Rs 50 lakh. This penalty is for not disclosing stake increases in Aakash Educational Services. Manipal Health Systems, Manipal Education, and Medical Group India failed to notify the antitrust watchdog. They completed multiple transactions to raise their stake and rights in Aakash Educational Services Limited.

22 May 2026 3:03 pm
UK police renew call for witnesses as they broaden inquiry into former Prince Andrew

Police in Britain are expanding their probe into allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The investigation covers potential misconduct in public office, including sexual offenses. This follows the release of documents from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. Authorities are seeking witnesses to understand the full scope of alleged wrongdoing.

22 May 2026 3:00 pm
Court orders Royal Enfield to pay Rs 5 lakh compensation to Continental GT buyer for repeated repairs

Royal Enfield compensation ruling: A Coimbatore consumer court has ordered Royal Enfield and its dealer Bharat Automotives to pay Rs 5.1 lakh. The compensation is for a buyer whose Continental GT 650 motorcycle repeatedly broke down. The bike suffered recurring defects for nearly three years. It spent 294 days at service centres. The court found deficiency in service by both the manufacturer and dealer.

22 May 2026 2:50 pm
Supreme Court indicates Delhi riot accused may get bail, says police argument on reference will be looked into

The Supreme Court is likely to grant interim bail to two individuals accused in the 2020 Delhi riots. The court will also consider a Delhi Police request to refer a legal question on bail under the UAPA to a larger bench. This question concerns whether prolonged incarceration and trial delays can override UAPA's bail restrictions.

22 May 2026 2:44 pm
Citi to boost Asia wealth business with 'significant' hires, global head says

Citigroup is focusing its global wealth management hiring on Asia. The region's private bank is growing faster and is more productive than other areas. Citigroup plans to hire about 100 private bankers worldwide. Asia is a key part of this strategy. The bank aims for significant growth in its wealth unit.

22 May 2026 2:41 pm
Delhi govt eases DJB policy to reduce water charges

The Delhi government has approved a new policy for Delhi Jal Board properties. This aims to simplify water charges and reduce costs for the public. Infrastructure charges will now be based on water demand and apply only to new construction. Residential colonies in E and F categories will receive a 50 percent rebate.

22 May 2026 2:39 pm
5 hacks to bring down room temperature without AC

As temperatures continue to rise across many parts of India, surviving the heat without an air conditioner can feel nearly impossible. But long before ACs became common, Indian households relied on simple desi cooling tricks to keep rooms more comfortable during brutal summers.

22 May 2026 2:32 pm
Rajasthan braces for severe heatwave after brief weather relief

Rajasthan experienced dry weather with isolated heatwave conditions over the past 24 hours, with Sri Ganganagar recording the highest temperature at 45.1C. While most of the state anticipates dry conditions, northwestern and northern regions may see thunderstorms and gusty winds on May 22-23. Temperatures are expected to rise again from May 24, with heatwave conditions likely.

22 May 2026 2:29 pm
'More AI, fewer bankers': CEO of US' largest bank JP Morgan Jamie Dimon's remarks hint at a shift in Wall Street trend

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon suggests artificial intelligence will significantly reduce jobs at the bank. The company plans to hire more AI experts and fewer traditional bankers. This shift aims to boost productivity and change the nature of banking roles. Existing employees facing job obsolescence will be retrained or redeployed. Dimon also commented on New York City's political landscape.

22 May 2026 2:24 pm
Second group of ISIS-linked Australian women reportedly leaves Syrian camp

A second group of Australian women and children with alleged ISIS ties has departed a Syrian detention camp, heading towards Damascus. This follows the recent return of four women and nine children, some of whom now face charges. The Australian government faces criticism over repatriations, with the opposition citing public safety concerns.

22 May 2026 2:21 pm
45 warships will be delivered in 3-4 years, approval given for 195 naval vessels: Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsyan

The Indian Navy has said around 45 ships are currently under construction in the country and will be delivered over the next 34 years, signalling a major expansion of indigenous naval capability. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsyan announced in Kolkata that the Navy has also received in-principle approval for 195 future vessels, including 69 ships, six submarines and 120 fast interceptor crafts.

22 May 2026 2:13 pm
NCERT textbook row: Supreme Court modifies earlier order concerning 3 academics

The Supreme Court has modified its earlier order regarding three academics involved in a dispute over an NCERT textbook chapter on corruption in the judiciary. The court has clarified that the Centre and state governments are free to independently decide whether to engage with the academics in any capacity. It also withdrew certain observations made against them in its previous ruling, marking a significant development in the case linked to academic freedom and educational content.

22 May 2026 2:11 pm
Rare public appearances, low profile mark Raul Castro's life since stepping down as Cuba's president

Former Cuban President Raul Castro is now facing serious charges from US prosecutors. These accusations relate to a 1996 incident where civilian planes were shot down. This development has intensified existing tensions between the United States and Cuba. Cuba's government has strongly condemned the indictment. Protests are planned in Havana. The situation highlights ongoing diplomatic friction.

22 May 2026 1:59 pm
India great partner, ready to expand energy exports: Marco Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States is ready to sell India as much energy as it is willing to buy, ahead of his first official visit to New Delhi. He described India as a great partner and said energy cooperation would be a key focus of his discussions during the trip, which will also include meetings with Quad foreign ministers.

22 May 2026 1:57 pm
More accurate data soon: Big missing link in India's economy dashboard finally gets set to go live

Come July, India will unveil its inaugural Index of Services Production to correctly assess the pulse of the country's critical services sector. By tracking short-term shifts in services output, this index aims to make the economy's readings better, in tow with the IIP.

22 May 2026 1:57 pm
Devendra Fadnavis' 'rejected maaal' remark shows poor understanding of parliamentary democracy: Congress

Maharashtra Congress leader Sachin Sawant criticized Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' ejected maal remark against Rahul Gandhi, calling it a reflection of poor understanding of parliamentary democracy. Sawant accused BJP and RSS leaders of spreading hatred and social divisions, aiming to disrupt Maharashtra's harmony. He highlighted the opposition's electoral success in the state under Gandhi's leadership.

22 May 2026 1:56 pm
Kerala Lottery Result Today, May 22, 2026: Suvarna Keralam SK-53 winning numbers; First prize Rs 1 crore, second prize Rs 30 lakh. Check winners here

Kerala Lottery Result Today: The Kerala Lottery Department will announce the Suvarna Keralam SK-53 results on May 22, 2026, with a Rs 1 crore first prize. Thousands await the winning numbers, with second and third prizes set at Rs 30 lakh and Rs 5 lakh respectively. Winners can check results online and claim prizes within 30 days.

22 May 2026 1:48 pm
India, Cyprus upgrade ties to a strategic partnership

India and Cyprus have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership. A joint task force will boost cooperation in infrastructure and shipping. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides discussed global issues including West Asia and Ukraine. Both nations aim to double investment in the next five years. Maritime security and counter-terrorism cooperation will also expand.

22 May 2026 1:46 pm
How this Karnataka doctor is growing 30 tonnes of chemical-free Kesar mangoes on rocky land with Israeli technology

Dr. Sameer Nair, an Ayurvedic practitioner, transformed rocky land in Belagavi into a thriving Kesar mango orchard using Israel-inspired high-density technology and natural farming. His farm, established in 2019, now yields nearly 30 tonnes annually, with fruits sold under the 'Vaishali Farm Kesar Mango' brand, emphasizing natural ripening and organic practices.

22 May 2026 1:39 pm
Ola Electric eyes FY27 turnaround on surging demand, cost reset and margin gains

Ola Electric is set for a robust FY27. The company expects a significant rebound in sales and revenue. Margins are strengthening, and costs are under tight control. Ola is focusing on scaling operations efficiently. This strategic reset positions Ola Electric for improved cash flow and operating leverage in the coming year.

22 May 2026 1:38 pm
India to launch 'smart border' project along Pakistan, Bangladesh borders to curb infiltration: Amit Shah

India will soon launch a 'smart border' project to secure its 6,000 km frontiers with Pakistan and Bangladesh. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated the initiative will use technology like drones and radars to create impenetrable borders. This move aims to defeat conspiracies to change the demography of border areas. The government is committed to identifying and deporting all infiltrators.

22 May 2026 1:24 pm
Am I insane to leave Rs 95 lakh job? 23-year-old at a company with 'strong' work-life balance wonders if he is taking right step

A 23-year-old professional earning more than $100,000 a year is debating whether to leave a well-paid and enjoyable job for a new career path that offers greater long-term earning potential and international opportunities, but also involves major short-term financial sacrifices. The Reddit post sparked a wider debate online about whether it is smarter to prioritise immediate high earnings and lifestyle stability or take a financial risk early in life for better long-term growth and security.

22 May 2026 1:17 pm