The Economic Times

The Reserve Bank of India reports that 98.45 percent of Rs 2,000 banknotes have been returned. This follows the withdrawal announcement on May 19, 2023. The total value of these notes in circulation has significantly decreased. Individuals can still exchange or deposit these notes at RBI issue offices or via India Post. The Rs 2,000 banknotes remain legal tender.

Parliament has approved changes to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. These amendments aim to speed up resolutions and improve the financial system. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill after the Lok Sabha's approval. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the IBC's success in asset recovery. The changes include provisions to reduce the time for admitting insolvency applications.

A Delhi court has convicted Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti in a cheating case. The court found Bharti and another accused guilty of criminal conspiracy, cheating, and forgery. They conspired to defraud a bank by continuing to draw higher interest rates beyond the initial fixed deposit period. The forgery of bank documents was central to the scheme.

Skywatchers in India can see the full Pink Moon on April 1-2, 2026. The Moon will appear bright and nearly full throughout the night. Its peak occurs early on April 2. The event is visible across the country with clear skies. No telescopes are needed. The Moon will not actually look pink. This name comes from spring traditions.

Gas tax suspension 2026 is gaining urgent attention as U.S. fuel prices hit $3.79 per gallon nationwide. The Gas Prices Relief Act of 2026 proposes a federal gas tax holiday to cut the 18.4-cent tax and ease rising fuel costs. This gas tax suspension 2026 aims to deliver direct savings at the pump for millions of drivers. Lawmakers say the move targets inflation pressure and global oil price shocks linked to the Iran conflict. However, experts warn fuel prices depend on crude oil trends, not jus

Union Home Minister Amit Shah met Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. They discussed the state's law and order situation. Shah urged acceleration of the peace process and consolidation of community bonhomie. He also agreed to raise a Mahila India Reserve Battalion for Manipur. Ministerial expansion is another key issue being discussed.

President Donald Trump announced the United States will withdraw from Iran swiftly. He indicated a possibility of returning for targeted strikes if necessary. Trump also voiced strong disapproval of NATO's perceived lack of support for American goals in Iran. He is considering a US withdrawal from the alliance. Trump believes US actions have prevented Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

RCB vs CSK 2026 tickets: The highly anticipated RCB vs CSK 2026 match tickets, which went live on April 1, have officially sold out on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru website and app. With a price range spanning from 3,750 to 47,000, the inventory was exhausted within hours of the portal opening.

Indian sailors, including Ketan Mehta and Captain Vijay Kumar, endured weeks of detention in Iran on smuggling charges before becoming caught in regional conflict. Facing escalating danger, they undertook a perilous 2,000-kilometer road journey to Armenia, eventually returning home after a harrowing ordeal facilitated by the Indian embassy.

Hamam Hussain, a milk deliveryman from Jammu and Kashmir, achieved his first national gold medal at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 in wrestling. Balancing his family's dairy livelihood after his father's death with his passion for the sport, Hussain's victory highlights his years of dedication and resilience against challenging conditions.

A Bengaluru tech professional, Harshit Sharma, has quit his Google job for a year-long 'experiment' to explore life and passions. Sharma described the move as 'bittersweet,' cherishing colleagues while embracing newfound freedom. He plans to turn a curiosity into a vocation, or return to tech if unsuccessful, a decision widely praised online for its courage and clarity.

An explosion occurred outside the Punjab BJP office in Chandigarh on Wednesday evening. The blast caused panic in the area. Police quickly cordoned off the location. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. A scooter parked nearby sustained damage. Senior police officials and forensic teams are investigating the incident. Further details are awaited.

A prolonged US Israel war may trigger a global food crisis, with rising fuel and fertiliser costs threatening vulnerable nations. The crisis is being driven by surging fuel costs, disruptions in shipping, and rising fertiliser prices.

April Fools Day 2026 brought a wave of imaginative brand campaigns, with food-themed pranks taking center stage. Brands also explored humor through pet products, beauty crossovers, and freebies, blending absurdity with believable ideas. Some campaigns even included real rewards, adding to the excitement. The day highlighted how companies use humor and creativity to engage audiences, spark conversations, and test bold concepts that might one day become reality.

Sams Club is raising membership fees starting in May, affecting both regular and Plus members. The change comes as the retailer expands with new stores across the United States. Customers will see higher yearly costs, while Plus members may earn more rewards. The update has been shared with members by email as the company adjusts pricing and continues its growth plans.

Humans are preparing to journey around the moon again. NASA's Artemis II mission will launch soon. Four astronauts will travel in the Orion capsule. This mission follows a successful uncrewed test flight. It is a key step towards establishing a permanent presence on the moon. The launch is scheduled for Wednesday. This marks a new era in space exploration.

A Pune professor has gone viral on social media after a captivating performance of 'Mehbooba Mehbooba' at a college event. Students at Sri Balaji University were thrilled by his energetic rendition, with the video garnering millions of views and widespread praise for his stage presence and connection with the audience.

US President Donald Trump said Irans new leadership has asked Washington for a ceasefire, according to a post on Truth Social. Trump said the United States would consider the request only after the Strait of Hormuz is reopened for shipping, warning that US strikes would continue until the key maritime route is clear.

Over 30 million Americans face higher costs as IRS tax filing costs increase 2026, following the shutdown of the Direct File program by the Internal Revenue Service. This major IRS change removes a free tax filing option used by thousands with high satisfaction rates. Now, taxpayers must rely on IRS Free File or paid tax software, where fees can rise quickly. Many will spend up to $270 on tax preparation. The shift is real. Costs are rising. Options are shrinking. This tax season feels different

U.S. retail sales saw a solid 0.6% increase in February, driven by a rebound in auto purchases and warmer weather. However, surging gasoline prices due to the Middle East conflict pose a potential threat to future consumer spending and the broader economy. Core retail sales also rose, indicating underlying strength despite a slowdown in fourth-quarter consumer spending.

Gas prices in the United States are rising quickly and putting pressure on commuters. Many workers are spending more money on daily travel and cutting other expenses. Longer commutes and inflation are making the situation harder. Some drivers are considering carpooling, biking, or remote work. Experts warn fuel costs may stay high, which could continue affecting household budgets and travel plans.

CBSE will implement On-Screen Marking for Class 12 exams from 2026. Answer sheets will be scanned and evaluated digitally. This change aims to improve accuracy and speed up the evaluation process. Students will continue to write exams with pen and paper. Teachers will assess answers on screen, reducing manual errors and the need for physical transport of papers.

As JEE Main 2026 session 2 commences, lakhs of students are preparing for this crucial entrance exam. Strategic preparation, including understanding the exam pattern, focusing on NCERT fundamentals, and practicing previous year papers, is vital. Maintaining health, managing time effectively, and consistent revision are key to success in securing admission to premier institutes.

A massive fire ravaged the Gopi Knitting textile factory in Surat on Wednesday, with no casualties reported. Firefighters battled the blaze, which spread rapidly due to flammable materials, engulfing the entire factory. While the cause remains undetermined, extensive damage has been reported, and cooling operations are ongoing.

A man has been charged after a car struck pedestrians in Derby. Seven people were injured in the incident. The accused faces multiple charges including grievous bodily harm and dangerous driving. He appeared in court and was remanded in custody. The case will now go to crown court.

Don't miss out on April Fools' Day food deals that are no joke! Several restaurant chains are offering freebies and discounts on April 1st. From free coffees at Dunkin' to discounted burgers at Checkers & Rally's and special anniversary deals at Hooters, there are plenty of ways to save on treats.

The Delhi High Court has ordered the removal of 'defamatory' social media posts concerning an alleged molestation incident on a flight. The court ruled that prematurely revealing the identity of the accused and sensationalizing allegations before a formal investigation violates his right to dignity and a fair trial. Actor Richa Chadha was also cautioned for amplifying unverified claims.

Achieve your fitness goals with these six powerful workouts designed to incinerate fat and define your abs. From high-intensity mountain climbers to the muscle-building bicycle crunch, this story provides the essential movements needed in 2026 to reveal a lean, strong midsection through efficient and functional exercise science.

A long-serving manager was abruptly dismissed after eight years of dedicated service, sparking widespread debate about corporate loyalty. The employees sudden termination without any prior warning highlights the reality that businesses prioritise their own interests over individual commitment. This incident emphasises the need for employees to take a proactive approach to managing their careers and financial security.

Pakistan and Afghanistan have opened talks in Chinas Urumqi to ease months of tension triggered by cross-border attacks. Pakistan says it wants Kabul to act against militants using Afghan soil. China is supporting the dialogue after earlier mediation attempts failed, while both sides remain cautious following recent airstrikes and a brief Eid truce.

Dunkin free coffee april 1 2026: Dunkin' is celebrating April Fools Day 2026 with a nationwide giveaway that proves to be no prank. Dunkin will be giving away one million free coffees on Wednesday, April 1, in honor of April Fools Day. Dunkin Rewards members can claim a free hot or iced coffee using the code STILLNOTAJOKE, with no purchase required.

Fight fatigue and prevent iron deficiency by incorporating these six powerhouse greens into your 2026 diet. From the concentrated iron of Moringa to the blood-building properties of Amaranth and Methi, this story explains how to use local Indian greens to naturally boost your hemoglobin levels and maintain peak physical energy.

India has received 'Malwan', the second of eight new anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft. Built in India, this vessel strengthens the nation's naval power. It is designed for coastal defence and will replace older ships. The delivery marks a significant step in modernizing the Indian Navy's fleet and enhancing maritime security.

Eliminate morning stress with these six nutrient-dense, time-saving breakfast options. From the set and forget convenience of overnight oats to batch-cooked egg muffins and rapid-assembly Greek yogurt parfaits, these strategies ensure you stay fueled and focused in 2026 without sacrificing your precious morning minutes to a stove.

Nearly 80% of Americans expect tax refunds in 2026, yet many may miss a major savings opportunity. The final chance for Americans to get new wave of primary residence tax credit is ending now. This limited-time property tax relief can reduce bills significantly for eligible homeowners. The deadline is April 1, 2026, and no extensions apply. This primary residence tax credit helps cut housing costs when inflation remains high. It does not offer cash, but it lowers tax liability directly. Many hou

Ululation is a word that resonates, both literally and figuratively. It transforms a simple vocal act into a powerful symbol of emotion and community.For those seeking to enrich their language, such terms offer more than just variety; they provide tools to convey nuance, atmosphere and depth.

IPL 2026 LSG vs DC Weather Forecast and Pitch Report: IPL 2026 clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Delhi Capitals (DC) is scheduled to take place today at Ardonamau. Current reports indicate a balanced pitch that may favor both pacers and stroke-makers, while the weather forecast suggests a clear sky with a minimal chance of precipitation during match hours.

India has spent over Rs 4,300 crore on the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project since 2011. This initiative aimed to enhance disaster resilience in coastal states. The project involved building infrastructure like cyclone shelters and early warning systems. It was implemented in two phases across eight states, concluding in March 2023. Capacity building was also a key focus.

Why are US stock market futures rising now, and will Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq stay in green or go red again after US President Donald Trump address to the nation? Futures climbed after signals of possible Iran war talks and falling oil prices. Global markets rallied, volatility eased, and investors now await economic data, Federal Reserve signals, and the national address to assess whether the recent market recovery can continue or reverse.

Today's school assembly bulletin for April 2 covers significant national news, including bail granted in a Goa nightclub fire case and the Lok Sabha's decision to recognize Amaravati as Andhra Pradesh's sole capital. International headlines focus on President Trump's address regarding the Iran war and its impact on the beauty industry.

Vijay's Election Affidavit: Actor and TVK chief Mr. Vijay has declared total assets worth Rs 603.20 crore in his election affidavit filed ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. The declaration includes Rs 404.58 crore in movable assets with over Rs 213 crore parked in Indian Overseas Bank deposits and Rs 198.62 crore in immovable assets, including agricultural land in Kodaikanal and multiple properties in Chennai.

India Inc's credit profiles face moderation in the second half of FY26 due to US tariffs and the West Asia conflict. Rating agencies anticipate resilience for most sectors despite uncertainties. The duration of the West Asia crisis is a key factor. Strong balance sheets and domestic demand offer support. Corporate India's adaptability is being tested.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Season 3 Battle Pass release date, time, weapons, skins and rewards are confirmed for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Season 3 launch on April 2. The update adds Battle Pass tiers, BlackCell rewards, new weapons, multiplayer maps, Warzone Verdansk changes, Zombies content, global launch timings, and more than 100 unlockable items across free and premium tracks.

The Karnataka government is taking proactive steps to combat the challenges of excessive digital engagement among students with its newly proposed draft policy. This forward-thinking approach places a strong emphasis on safeguarding mental health, enhancing cyber awareness, and cultivating responsible tech usage. The initiative seeks to educate parents and teachers on ways to curb mobile phone dependence in children.

Concerns have been raised by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam regarding the safety protocols for their party leader, Vijay, following an incident during his campaign in Perambur that they believe highlighted security shortcomings. A letter has been forwarded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, appealing for his immediate involvement.