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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

MHADA Pune Lottery 2026 Update: How to book 3000 homes, key dates, and eligibility

MHADA Pune Board has announced a new lottery for approximately 3,000 additional affordable homes scheduled for March 2026, following the successful computerized draw for 4,186 flats on February 10, 2026. Simultaneously, the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Board is inviting applications for 521 PMAY EWS flats in Nakshatrawadi, with a deadline of March 4, 2026, for housing across the Marathwada region.

20 Feb 2026 3:18 pm
Congress left borders open, leading to infiltration in Assam, alleges Amit Shah

During a pivotal speech, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the BJP government's effectiveness in addressing infiltration issues in Assam, contrasting it sharply with the Congress party's shortcomings in border security and development efforts. He announced the second phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme, which aims to enrich the living standards of residents in border villages and mitigate migration pressures.

20 Feb 2026 3:13 pm
From Hooghly to high seas: Boost for Kolkata PSU amid defence boom

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) is poised for Navratna status, a move that will grant it enhanced financial and operational autonomy. This elevation recognizes the shipyard's significant evolution from a 19th-century workshop to a strategic defence asset, mirroring India's growing maritime ambitions and self-reliance.

20 Feb 2026 3:03 pm
Thought of the day by Jerome K. Jerome: 'I like work. It fascinates me. I can sit and look at it for hours.'

Thought of the day by Jerome K. Jerome highlights a quote about work and human behavior. The quote explains observation, delay, and attitude toward effort. This explainer covers Thought of the day today meaning, Thought of the day today relevance, and details about Jerome K. Jerome, his life, books, and legacy today.

20 Feb 2026 2:57 pm
Iranian supreme leader Khamenei, implacable foe of the US

The Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei grapples with unprecedented challenges. Surrounded by mounting foreign pressure and growing dissent within Iran, he has traditionally quashed protests. However, as regional allies falter and U.S. threats loom, Khamenei's strategies are set to redefine the dynamics of the Middle East.

20 Feb 2026 2:50 pm
Word of the Day: Sanctimonious

Word of the Day: Refined in sound yet pointed in implication, the word Sanctimonious reminds readers that moral authority is strongest when expressed with humility rather than display.

20 Feb 2026 2:48 pm
Knives, chainsaw and petrol: Police reveal horrific details of how a Hyderabad techie planned the murder of pregnant ex-wife

A pregnant woman's murder was a meticulously planned attack, not a crime of passion. Investigators revealed the accused, her ex-husband, tracked her movements for weeks, acquired weapons including a chainsaw, and traveled to her home with intent to kill. The motive appears to stem from past disputes and resentment over their divorce and her remarriage.

20 Feb 2026 2:46 pm
Kerala hikes 'Dearness Allowance' to 35 percent for employees, pensioners

The Kerala government has announced a significant increase in Dearness Allowance for state employees and pensioners. This hike will see allowances rise from 25 to 35 percent. The enhanced payments will be disbursed with the March salary for employees and April pension for pensioners.

20 Feb 2026 2:34 pm
India to focus on providing affordable compute capacity to all: Statistics Secretary Saurabh Garg

India is prioritizing equitable access to affordable computing capacity for AI development through a collaborative model involving government, philanthropists, and the private sector. The focus is on intelligent prioritization rather than rationing, aiming to ensure AI benefits all and fosters innovation for public interest infrastructure.

20 Feb 2026 2:30 pm
SC sets deadline for YSRCP MLC murder case

The Supreme Court has ordered the swift conclusion of a murder trial involving YSRCP MLC Anantha Satya Udaya Bhaskara Rao. The court expressed strong concerns about alleged collusion between the police and those in power. The trial is now mandated to finish by November 30. This directive aims to ensure justice in the case of the former driver's death.

20 Feb 2026 2:29 pm
EC to visit Tamil Nadu, Puducherry from Feb 25 to 27 to assess poll preparedness

From February 25 to 27, the Election Commission will visit Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to evaluate the regions election readiness ahead of the assembly elections.

20 Feb 2026 2:29 pm
Dodging bullets to save sparrows in strife-hit Manipur

Anish Ahamad, an environmentalist in Manipur, persists with his sparrow conservation mission. He distributes handmade nests in villages near Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts. His work faces disruptions due to ongoing ethnic violence and gunfire. Ahamad has installed over 600 nests, boosting local sparrow populations. He also works on wildlife rescue and tree plantation. His efforts continue despite the challenging circumstances.

20 Feb 2026 2:26 pm
MHADA Mumbai 2026 Update: How to book 118 flats in Andheri, Ghatkopar and other regions without lottery

MHADA Lottery 2026: Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has launched a significant initiative to clear its inventory by offering 118 residential flats across Mumbai on a First-Come, First-Served (FCFS) basis. These are flats that remained unsold despite being part of three previous lottery cycles, now made available for direct purchase. Registrations for this scheme officially opened on February 17, 2026, allowing citizens to bypass the traditional lottery draw for the fir

20 Feb 2026 2:22 pm
AI is Anti-India for Congress: BJP slams Youth Congress over shirtless protest at AI Impact Summit

Indian Youth Congress members protested shirtless at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Police detained several individuals. The Congress criticized the summit's organization and alleged mismanagement. The BJP responded, calling the protest anti-India and highlighting global praise for the event. Investigations are ongoing.

20 Feb 2026 2:12 pm
Not Nvidia or TSMC, only this company holds the tech that powers every chip in the world

ASML, a Dutch company, holds a near-monopoly on extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, essential for manufacturing the most advanced chips. Developing this technology over two decades, ASML produces around 40 machines annually for major chipmakers, with specialized partners like Trumpf and Carl Zeiss contributing key components.

20 Feb 2026 2:09 pm
India set to get bigger, deadlier nuclear submarine INS Aridhaman as Pak eyes 8 Chinese subs

India's underwater nuclear capabilities are set for a significant enhancement with INS Aridhaman, a new nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, nearing commissioning. This advanced vessel, larger and deadlier than its predecessors, will bolster India's continuous at-sea deterrence and second-strike capability, significantly strengthening its naval nuclear posture.

20 Feb 2026 2:09 pm
S&P/ASX 200 ends week with a drop as Australian shares ease after record run, Guzman y Gomez sees big dip; check top gainers and losers

Australian shares finished the week lower on Friday, February 20, 2026. However, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index saw weekly gains. Strong corporate earnings from companies like BHP and National Australia Bank provided support. Investors are now awaiting results from Woodside Energy, Woolworths, Coles, and Qantas. Miners experienced a decline on Friday.

20 Feb 2026 1:42 pm
Anand Mahindra amazed after this Physics teacher uses Bernoulli's principle in real life, wishes his school made science this 'exciting'

Industrialist Anand Mahindra has once again captured the internet's attention by sharing a viral video of a science teacher demonstrating Bernoullis Principle in a way that makes textbooks look dull. The video features a teacher struggling to inflate a massive yellow plastic bag using conventional breaths, only to fill it instantly with a single scientific blow.

20 Feb 2026 1:42 pm
Diageo CEO plans to overhaul executive team, FT reports

Diageo's new chief executive Dave Lewis is planning a significant overhaul of his top team. The company's 14-person executive committee is expected to see several members replaced. Lewis aims for a wholesale change, potentially removing entire management layers. This move comes as Diageo faces challenges in its largest market, the United States.

20 Feb 2026 1:40 pm
AI Summit: PM Modi discusses potential of harnessing AI in agri, edu with top execs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with AI and deeptech startup leaders. They explored using artificial intelligence in agriculture, environmental protection, and higher education. The Prime Minister stressed strong data governance and solutions for India's needs. He expressed confidence in Indian companies and domestic innovation. Startups highlighted India's growing AI ecosystem and global potential.

20 Feb 2026 1:35 pm
Rahul Gandhi accuses PM of 'abject surrender' in trade deal

Rahul Gandhi questions the integrity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent trade pact with the United States, suggesting that India is making significant concessions while garnering minimal benefits. He said that the answer to why the PM agreed to a deal, where India gives so much and appears to get so little, and make an abject surrender lies in the grips and chokes placed on him.

20 Feb 2026 1:35 pm
India assumes IONS Chairmanship at conclave of chiefs in Vizag

India has taken over the leadership of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium. This forum aims to boost maritime cooperation among nations. India is ready to take on more responsibility for peace and security in the region. The symposium will focus on disaster relief, maritime security, and information sharing. This collaboration is crucial for economic prosperity and stability.

20 Feb 2026 1:32 pm
Donald Trump 'loved' his India visit, PM Modi has invited him again: US Envoy Sergio Gor

Addressing a joint press conference with US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg and US President's Science and Technology Advisor Michael Kratsios, Gor said there was no formal announcement yet on the visit, but recalled that President Trump greatly enjoyed his earlier trip to India. He added that when Trump nominated him as ambassador, he had spoken about India's unmatched vibrancy, colour, history and culture, and expressed confidence that the President would return at

20 Feb 2026 1:19 pm
Quote of the Day by Nicole Kidman on life and opportunities: Even from a very early age I knew I didn't want to miss out on

Nicole Kidman, an Oscar-winning actress born in Hawaii, began her acting career in Australia as a teenager. After early roles in films like 'Bush Christmas' and 'BMX Bandits,' she made her American debut in 'Dead Calm.' Her childhood ambition to embrace life's experiences, even those perceived as dangerous, shaped her adventurous spirit and pursuit of opportunity over fear.

20 Feb 2026 1:14 pm
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to visit India in next few months: Sergio Gor

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit India in the upcoming months. This news comes straight from the desk of US Ambassador Sergio Gor, who also indicated that a landmark trade agreement between India and the United States is to be inked soon.

20 Feb 2026 1:09 pm
Strong manufacturing growth lifts India's private sector in February, PMI shows

HSBC's flash India Composite Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), compiled by S&P Global, rose to 59.3 in February from January's 58.4 - the strongest in three months and above a Reuters poll median forecast of 59.0. The 50-mark separates expansion from contraction.

20 Feb 2026 1:00 pm
India-US to begin 3 day talks to finalise interim trade pact

India-US trade deal: Officials from both countries will meet in the US from February 23 to finalize the legal text for an interim trade agreement. This meeting follows the finalization of a framework for the deal. The agreement is expected to be signed in March. Both nations will offer duty concessions on various goods.

20 Feb 2026 12:47 pm
Who was Quentin Griffiths and what is his cause of death, net worth and family details? Here's complete truth and all details

Who was Quentin Griffiths and what is his cause of death, net worth and family details? ASOS co-founder died after falling from Thailand apartment. Police are investigating cause of death, net worth, legal disputes, family details, and business history linked to ASOS shares and earnings.

20 Feb 2026 12:41 pm
Tata Punch EV 2026 vs Nexon EV: Price, range, charging options, interior and more specs compared

Tata Punch EV vs Nexon EV: Tata Motors launched the Tata Punch EV Facelift in India on February 20, 2026, introducing significant design and tech upgrades to its popular micro-SUV. The new model features a sharper front profile with a full-width LED light bar and aero-focused alloy wheels.

20 Feb 2026 12:41 pm
'MODI governance means Maximum Optics Damaging India': Cong's dig over US-Pak 'romance'

Congress has attacked the government's foreign policy. They state that US-Pakistan relations remain strong. Meanwhile, India's leader is busy with optics. This is described as 'MODI governance - Maximum Optics Damaging India'. Pakistan's Prime Minister attended an event in Washington. He praised Donald Trump. India has consistently denied third-party intervention in its affairs.

20 Feb 2026 12:40 pm
Ukraine's 2026 defence exports could hit 'several billion dollars', official says

Ukraine is poised to generate billions through military exports this year, marking a significant milestone as its first wartime sales since the invasion began. In an innovative move, Kyiv is contemplating an export tax to bolster its own defense funding.

20 Feb 2026 12:25 pm
Shakira India Tour 2026: 'Hips don't lie' singer to perform in Delhi and Mumbai, check tickets and dates

Shakira India Concert Tickets: Latin pop superstar Shakira is set to electrify Mumbai and Delhi in April 2026 with a two-city concert tour. This marks her first major Indian performance in nearly two decades, bringing her record-breaking global hits to eager fans. The concerts are part of the Feeding India Concert series, highlighting a significant return for international live music in the country.

20 Feb 2026 12:22 pm
Guzman Y Gomez loses $270 million in market capitalisation due to below-expectation half-year results despite rising profit and sales

Guzman Y Gomez, Australia's popular burrito chain, saw its market value plunge by $270 million following weaker-than-expected sales, particularly in the US. Despite reporting strong overall sales and a significant rise in profit after tax, investors reacted negatively. The company plans to expand its global footprint with 32 new restaurants in the upcoming financial year.

20 Feb 2026 12:13 pm
Beyond gross: Influencer washes underwear in hotel coffee maker, internet revolts

A travel influencer's viral video demonstrating washing underwear in hotel coffee makers has ignited widespread outrage. Critics condemned the practice as unsanitary and inconsiderate, questioning hygiene standards. Many users expressed disgust, advocating for traditional hand-washing methods instead of using appliances not designed for cleaning.

20 Feb 2026 12:13 pm
Tamil Nadu elections: DMK begins distribution of applications for poll aspirants

Tamil Nadu assembly polls: A party release on February 18 said, a fee of Rs 25,000 will be charged for general category candidates and Rs 15,000 for women and reserved category candidates.

20 Feb 2026 12:10 pm
Defamation case against Rahul Gandhi: Court fixes next date of hearing

Rahul Gandhi appeared in a Sultanpur court on Friday. He recorded his statement in a 2018 defamation case. The case relates to remarks made against Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The court set March 9 for the next hearing. Gandhi must present his defense evidence then. Supporters hailed Gandhi as he left the court.

20 Feb 2026 12:07 pm
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announces referendum on immigration, social services, and provincial powers amid budget and oil price strain

Alberta will hold a referendum on October 19, 2026. Voters will decide on immigration, healthcare, and education access. Premier Danielle Smith stated federal policies strain public services. The referendum aims to give Alberta more control over immigration and social programs. This move seeks to manage population growth and resource allocation within the province.

20 Feb 2026 12:04 pm
House of the Dragon Season 3 release date, cast, trailer, plot update: When will new season return? Dance of the Dragon, missing characters and possible returns explained

House of the Dragon Season 3 release date, cast, trailer, plot update confirms the HBO series will return in June 2026. The teaser shows war between Rhaenyra and Aegon factions. New cast members join the story. The plot focuses on battles, dragons, and power struggle for the Iron Throne in Westeros.

20 Feb 2026 12:00 pm
'Stay Tuned': US Envoy Sergio Gor hints at PM Modi-Trump meeting

Stay tuned, I'm sure it'll happen at the right moment,on the sidelines of India AI Impact Summit when asked about the possibility of a meeting between PM Modi and Trump. The US president had hosted PM Modi for an official working visit in Washington DC on February 13 last year.

20 Feb 2026 11:55 am
Vivo V70 vs Vivo V70 Elite: Which is the 'best buy' for you? Camera, price, specs and more compared

Vivo V70 V70 Elite: Vivo has officially expanded its premium smartphone lineup in India with the dual launch of the Vivo V70 and the all-new Vivo V70 Elite. This generation marks a significant leap for the V-series, integrating professional-grade imaging and high-end processing power typically reserved for the X-series flagships.

20 Feb 2026 11:55 am
Dragging Gaurav's family, children into 'Pak link' allegation by Assam CM wrong politics: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has criticized Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. She stated that attacking Gaurav Gogoi and his family is wrong politics. Vadra emphasized that leaders should focus on issues like youth unemployment and corruption. She also paid respects to singer Zubeen Garg, calling him above politics. Vadra believes Garg's cremation ground should remain a sacred space.

20 Feb 2026 11:43 am
Supreme Court refuses to entertain plea to restrain naming of religious structures in Babur's name

The Supreme Court has declined to hear a petition seeking to prevent the construction or naming of any mosque or religious structure after Babur or Babri Masjid. The petitioner's lawyer withdrew the plea after the bench expressed its unwillingness to proceed. This action followed an announcement by a suspended MLA to build a Babri Masjid replica in West Bengal.

20 Feb 2026 11:40 am
'Na de dil pardesi nu': Emmanuel Macron says thank you India in Dhurandhar style, netizens say with one video he has trolled Pakistan

French President Emmanuel Macron's recent state visit to India concluded with a viral farewell video featuring a popular Bollywood soundtrack. The montage, showcasing moments from his trip, ended with a thank you message, resonating with Indian social media users who celebrated the cultural connection.

20 Feb 2026 11:36 am
Quote of the day by Mahatma Gandhi: Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.

Mahatma Gandhi, born in 1869, was a pivotal leader in India's independence movement. He developed Satyagraha, a philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which he used to mobilize millions against British rule. Gandhi also championed social reforms, advocating for the eradication of caste injustices and improved women's status, leaving a profound global legacy.

20 Feb 2026 11:32 am
Union Minister Giriraj Singh backs The Kerala Story 2 amid legal challenge

Union Minister Giriraj Singh has backed 'The Kerala Story 2'. He stated filmmakers have the right to show truth. The film's trailer depicts Hindu women allegedly trapped by Islamic men. The Kerala High Court has issued notices regarding the film's censor certificate. Kerala's Chief Minister opposes the sequel, fearing it will incite communal discord.

20 Feb 2026 11:24 am
T20 World Cup: New Zealand batters aim to tame Pakistan spinners in Super 8s clash

New Zealands middle-order faces a stern test against Pakistans spinners in the T20 World Cup Super Eight opener. Kiwi batters must support their openers to post competitive totals. Pakistan also seeks batting improvement, especially from Babar Azam. Both teams pace attacks need to adapt to the Colombo pitch. The match starts at 7 pm IST.

20 Feb 2026 11:22 am