The Economic Times

Petrol price in Pakistan skyrocketed today after a steep hike of PKR 55 per litre, pushing petrol and diesel prices to PKR 321.17 and PKR 335.86 respectively. This decision, attributed to escalating West Asian conflict and rising global oil markets, also follows reported IMF pressure for immediate fuel price adjustments.

Benjamin Franklin, a key Founding Father, inventor, and diplomat, emphasized the irretrievable nature of time. His quote, Lost time is never found again, serves as a profound reminder that time, unlike other resources, moves only forward. This underscores the importance of disciplined and aware use of every moment for personal growth and well-being, highlighting the regret associated with missed opportunities.

Balendra Balen Shah, a structural engineer and former underground rapper, defied political norms to become Kathmandu's Mayor in 2022. Now, the 35-year-old is challenging political heavyweight KP Sharma Oli for a parliamentary seat, aiming to become one of Nepal's youngest Prime Ministers.

Rang Panchami 2026 arrives on Sunday, March 8. This festival extends Holi's colorful spirit. Celebrations will fill streets in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. Indore promises spectacular events with colored water sprays. Communities will gather for music, devotion, and cultural programs. It marks a joyful conclusion to the Holi season.

Rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shahs Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is heading for a major victory in Nepals first general election since last years Gen Z protests that toppled the government. According to Election Commission data, the party has won 18 seats and is leading in 99 others, challenging the dominance of traditional parties.

BlackRock has restricted withdrawals from a major debt fund. This action follows a surge in redemption requests. Investor worries are growing about the two trillion dollar private credit industry. Shares of the asset manager fell amid market selloffs. Sentiment has soured around private credit in recent months. Retail investors are increasingly asking for their money back.

Iran's Foreign Minister condemned US strikes targeting children, vowing retaliation against American bases. The remarks follow a deadly strike on a Minab girls' school, with CNN analysis suggesting US responsibility due to a likely targeting failure during an attack on a nearby naval base. Investigations are ongoing.

President Trump demanded unconditional surrender from Iran, aiming to install a new leadership and bring the nation back from destruction. This broadens his war goals, as Iran has instead expanded its attacks. Despite shifting objectives from officials, Trump reiterates his vision of regime change, citing Venezuela as a model.

The Trump administration is proposing strict rules for civilian AI contracts, requiring companies to permit any lawful use of their models. This comes after the Pentagon designated Anthropic a supply-chain risk, barring its technology from military work due to disputes over safeguards. The proposed guidelines also mandate AI systems avoid partisan judgments and disclose foreign compliance modifications.

America's ability to fight terrorism is weakened. Key units in the Justice Department and FBI have lost many experienced agents. This is due to firings and resignations. These losses affect the nation's defense against threats, especially from Iran. The situation leaves the country vulnerable.

The US has granted India a temporary 30-day waiver to purchase Russian oil, citing the developing security situation in West Asia and its impact on global shipping routes. This move aims to stabilize oil prices and ensure energy availability for India, which has diversified its import sources. Officials assure no energy shortage for consumers.

A top Pentagon official stated Anthropic's AI restrictions on autonomous weapons and surveillance created a conflict with US military plans. These plans include space-based defense and drone swarms. The Pentagon designated Anthropic a supply chain risk. This move impacts its defense work. Anthropic plans to sue. The dispute highlights the military's push for AI autonomy.

A Pakistani man, Asif Merchant, has been convicted of plotting with Iran's Revolutionary Guard to assassinate U.S. officials, including former President Donald Trump. The jury found him guilty of attempted terrorism and murder for hire after a weeklong trial. Merchant's scheme involved hiring hit men and stealing documents, but was ultimately foiled by an FBI informant.

International Womens Day quotes 2026: International Women's Day celebrates women's global achievements and gender equality. Its origins trace to early 20th-century labor movements and a 1910 proposal for international observance. The United Nations recognized the day in 1975. March 8 marks a significant Russian women's strike in 1917. Inspiring quotes from prominent women are also featured.

A new rule from the SECURE 2.0 Act allows families to move unused money from a 529 college savings plan into a Roth IRA. This change started in 2024 and gives more flexibility if college plans change. The rollover has limits and conditions, but it helps families avoid penalties and use education savings to build retirement funds in the future.

Marilyn Monroe's enduring quote, Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together, reflects her own life of hardship and triumph. Her journey from an unstable childhood to Hollywood stardom, marked by both success and personal struggles, imbues this message with profound meaning. The quote encourages viewing life's disruptions as opportunities for growth and renewal.

Quote of the day by Anais Nin: Her powerful words urge women to take charge of their destinies. She believed women should build the lives they desire themselves. This message champions independence and self-reliance. Nin's own life and writings, including her diaries, explored these themes. Her work continues to inspire women to recognize their potential and shape their own paths.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh described the West Asia geopolitical situation as highly unusual. He warned of adverse impacts on the global economy and trade. The Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf are strategically vital for energy security. Disruptions there affect oil and gas supplies. This will lead to supply chain issues in other sectors.

Lok Sabha is set to consider a resolution seeking the removal of Speaker Om Birla. This rare event follows allegations of partisan conduct. Mr. Birla will not preside over the proceedings but will have the opportunity to defend himself. The resolution requires a simple majority for passage. This move comes as Parliament reconvenes for the budget session's second phase.

Tragedy struck as two Indian Air Force pilots lost their lives in a Su30MKI fighter jet crash in Assam's Karbi Anglong district. The aircraft, which took off from Jorhat, lost radar contact on Thursday evening. The Indian Air Force has expressed deep condolences to the families of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar.

The Congress party has strongly criticized the recent 30-day waiver from the US for Indian refineries to purchase Russian oil. Party leaders described the need for such a waiver as humiliating for India's sovereignty and global standing. They questioned the Modi government's decision to wait for this permission instead of asserting India's independent energy choices.

As the FA Cup fifth round approaches, the spotlight is on Arsenal and Chelsea as they prepare to clash with teams from the lower tiers. Wrexham, now under the watchful eyes of their celebrity owners, hopes to stage a huge upset against Chelsea.

The disinterments from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific are due to begin in November or December, Kelly McKeague, the director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, said Thursday in a statement.

The crude oil market prices hike shocked global traders. WTI crude oil prices surged nearly $12 in nine hours, briefly crossing $92.50 per barrel. This is one of the fastest oil price spikes in recent years. Brent crude climbed near $86.47, while natural gas jumped above $3.23. Traders triggered a historic oil market short squeeze. Rising Middle East tensions, tight supply fears, and strong buying drove the surge. At the same time, The Bureau of Labor Statistics dropped a bombshell Friday mornin

Despite not making the Player of the Tournament shortlist, Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional death bowling proved pivotal in India's T20 World Cup semi-final victory. Bumrah's controlled yorkers and economical overs, even when facing a rampaging batsman, turned the tide, earning him praise and securing India's place in the final.

Sam Altman's perspective on disregarding the elderly is put to the test. In many Indian households, parents tirelessly champion their children's ambitions, often at great personal sacrifice. While the youth innovate and explore, parental concerns are grounded in the harsh realities of inadequate social support systems. The challenges facing them are primarily infrastructural.

In Kunshan, China, AutoFlight demonstrated its Matrix eVTOL, the largest electric aircraft built in China, capable of carrying 10 passengers. While the company aims for type certification by 2027, industry experts suggest a viable flying taxi service is at least three years away, pending regulatory approvals and infrastructure development.

International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol assured there is ample oil globally. He acknowledged logistical challenges due to the West Asia conflict. Birol stated that while all options are considered, no immediate release of emergency oil stocks is planned. He also cautioned against relying on Russia for energy supplies, calling it a past mistake.

Beijing on Thursday unveiled a slightly lower growth target of 4.5%-5% for 2026, down from last year's 5%, which was met largely through a one-fifth surge in its trade surplus to a record $1.2 trillion.

A business writer, laid off for the third time due to AI's impact, sought a new, less sedentary trade at 47. Reddit users suggested various skilled trades and technical roles, with city bus driver emerging as a surprisingly popular and practical option, offering stable pay and benefits.

Corey Harrison, known for appearing on the reality TV series Pawn Stars, is asking fans for help after a devastating motorcycle accident in Tulum, Mexico. The crash left him with serious injuries, including 11 fractured ribs, a punctured lung, a concussion, and internal bleeding. Medical treatment and multiple surgeries pushed his hospital bills beyond $100,000.

Polls show that a plebiscite on Sunday sparked by campaigners seeking to legally enshrine the availability of physical money will probably win enough backing to pass in some form, in a result that would contrast with consumers increasing enthusiasm for digital transactions.

Gasoline prices in the US have reached their highest point during President Trump's tenure. This surge is driven by disruptions in West Asia affecting energy supplies. Saudi Arabia has significantly increased oil prices for Asian buyers. Experts predict a potential shutdown of Gulf energy exports, driving oil prices to $150 per barrel.

The Quote of the Day by Jane Fonda shares a simple message about personal growth and self-improvement. The famous actress and activist believed people can always learn and improve their weaknesses. Her life in films, activism, and public work shows how change and learning can happen at any stage of life, inspiring many people around the world today.

Home-cooked vegetarian thali costs held steady in February. Non-vegetarian thali prices dropped three percent. Lower onion, potato, and pulse prices balanced rising tomato costs for vegetarian meals. Broiler prices, a major component of non-veg thalis, declined. Vegetable prices are expected to ease. West Asia tensions may impact basmati rice exports.

John Lennons quote, There are two basic motivating forces: fear and love, emphasizes the main elements behind human behavior. Fear pushes people toward caution, avoidance, and self-protection, while love inspires connection, creativity, and courage. This duality shapes decisions, actions, and relationships in both personal and professional life. By recognizing which force is influencing us, individuals can choose paths that foster growth, empathy, and fulfillment

The United States has authorized the import of Venezuelan gold. This move follows a visit by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and signals a thawing of relations. Diplomatic ties are being restored after the removal of Nicolas Maduro. Venezuela possesses significant mineral wealth beyond oil, including gold and diamonds. Many companies are showing interest in investing in the country.

Quote of the day by Morgan Freeman: The actor believes kindness can change the world. His message highlights how small, random acts of compassion create a positive ripple effect. These simple gestures, accessible to everyone, can significantly impact individuals and communities. Freeman's own life and career, marked by iconic roles and numerous awards, inspire this philosophy.

President Donald Trump has declared Cuba will fall pretty soon. This comes as the island nation faces a US energy blockade. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead efforts for regime change in Havana. Cuba has been grappling with severe economic issues, including fuel shortages, for years. The US capture of Venezuela's president has impacted oil supplies to the island.

Former and current Australian High Commissioners to India shared insights on the bilateral relationship's evolution over two decades. The panel highlighted advancements in education, defense, and economic cooperation, noting the relationship's rapid growth and deepening integration as strategic, economic, and cultural partners.

Veteran politician Karan Singh revealed the 1975-77 forced sterilization drive stemmed from north Indian chief ministers seeing Sanjay Gandhi as a rising force. Singh, the former health minister, stated he set reasonable targets, but Gandhi increased them. This led chief ministers to exceed goals, resulting in forced sterilizations.

India is stepping into the future of farming with the integration of artificial intelligence. New initiatives such as AgriStack and Bharat VISTAAR are on the horizon, designed to offer customised guidance to farmers facing the challenges of unpredictable climates and variable market trends.

India receives a 30-day US waiver to buy Russian oil. This move sparks a political storm. The government calls it a win for energy security. The opposition criticizes it as a sign of dependency on America. Leaders debate national sovereignty and foreign policy. The waiver allows refiners to purchase stranded Russian crude oil.