The Economic Times

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the NDA's campaign for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections in Madurantakam on January 23. The rally aims to signal the start of the electoral battle against the incumbent DMK government. BJP legislative party leader Nainar Nagenthran confirmed the PM's participation and hinted at a strong show of alliance partners on stage.

Mary Kom's ex-husband Onler Kom has responded to the financial fraud allegations levelled by a six-time world boxing champion. He claimed that Mary Kom had multiple affairs and he gave up his career to look after the family, which Mary Kom told him to do. He claimed that he lived like her slave amid the public fallout between boxing legend Mary Kom and her ex-husband.

When temperatures drop, nothing beats a warm, hearty dinner. These winter-friendly recipes are comforting, filling, and perfect for chilly evenings.

The upcoming Union Budget for 2026-27 is expected to prioritize medium-term debt consolidation while maintaining a strong push for capital expenditure. ICRA projects a fiscal deficit of 4.3% of GDP, with a significant increase in capital spending to Rs 13.1 trillion, aiming to front-load infrastructure development before future fiscal rigidities.

Steve Nash, a South African-born Canadian basketball legend, is celebrated as one of the NBA's greatest point guards. His illustrious career, spanning nearly two decades, saw him earn two MVP awards with the Phoenix Suns and a Hall of Fame induction. Nash's journey from a promising college player to an NBA icon highlights the power of dedication and preparation.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk remains in Jodhpur jail. He is observing ants and writing a book titled 'Forever Positive'. His wife states he is optimistic despite difficult conditions. Wangchuk engages in meditation and yoga. He receives books and some snacks. Jail authorities are described as accommodating within strict laws. He has been in jail for over 110 days.

US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, on Sunday concluded his 'successful' visit to Mumbai, highlighting the growing partnership between India and the United States across trade, technology, education, energy and resilient supply chains.

Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate development projects in Singur, West Bengal. BJP leader Biman Ghosh criticizes the state government, accusing it of betraying farmers and shutting down industries. Ghosh also condemned recent incidents of violence and stated that the public will remove the current government in the 2026 elections.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali Angmo speaks out. She claims his detention under the National Security Act is illegal due to procedural lapses. Angmo asserts the case lacks merit and highlights concerns about democracy in India. She calls for a louder voice against such actions. The detention has delayed new projects for their institutions.

The New Delhi World Book Fair features a special pavilion celebrating India's military history. Visitors can explore exhibits on key conflicts, Param Vir Chakra recipients, and indigenous military achievements. Interactive displays, including VR experiences of aircraft carriers, offer an engaging look at the armed forces' legacy. The pavilion highlights India's valour and wisdom from independence to future operations.

CareEdge Ratings expects the Indian economy to grow by 7 per cent in 2026-27 despite global uncertainties, supported by low inflation, softer interest rates and a lower tax burden. The rating agency said services exports would continue to support the external position even as merchandise exports face pressure from tariff-related uncertainties.

CBSE has released admit cards for Class 10 and 12 private candidates for the 2026 board exams. The examinations are scheduled from February 17 to April 9, 2026. Candidates must carry a printed admit card for entry to the examination centre.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that dharma guides India to remain a Vishwaguru. He emphasized that this spiritual knowledge is not found elsewhere in the world. Bhagwat explained that dharma is the driver of the universe and everything operates on this principle.

Recent investigations have uncovered that Dr. Umar-un Nabi, identified as the mastermind behind a terror module, attempted to enlist a second suicide bomber. However, the potential recruit reversed his decision, prioritizing family obligations during the apple harvest. Dr. Nabi, leveraging his status as a physician, worked to indoctrinate individuals.

Security forces and terrorists are engaged in an encounter in a remote forest area of Kishtwar district. The gunfight began on Sunday during a cordon and search operation in the Chatroo area. Reinforcements have been sent to the location. Further details about the ongoing operation are awaited.

Music composer A.R. Rahman has responded to criticism following his recent interview. He shared a video explaining that his intentions can be misunderstood. Rahman emphasized his lifelong dedication to celebrating India's culture through music. He stated his purpose has always been to uplift and serve. He expressed his gratitude for being Indian and the freedom of expression it allows.

Sudha Murty, wife of Infosys founder Narayana Murthy, has revealed the secret behind her happy marriage. The author and parliamentarian said that if two people who are married are not fighting, then they are not husband and wife. She also advised couples to accept their partners as they are and said they should never get upset together because that is the recipe for further fights.

Miley Cyrus, the former Hannah Montana star, has transformed into a dynamic pop icon. Known for hits like 'Flowers' and her advocacy for social causes, she navigates artistic evolution and public discourse. Her journey from teen idol to versatile artist, despite controversies, has solidified her influence and a dedicated following across generations.

NASA's Artemis II rocket is now on the launch pad for a historic lunar journey. Four astronauts will travel around the moon and return. This mission is a crucial step towards future moon landings. The launch is planned for February, following a key fueling test. This marks humanity's return to lunar space after over fifty years.

Maya Angelou's quote highlights courage as the foundational virtue, essential for consistently practicing honesty, kindness, and integrity. In today's world, this courage empowers individuals to champion truth and fairness, even amidst pressure and fear. It's the vital push that transforms intentions into actions, motivating consistent practice of other virtues.

A 12-year-old boy is in critical condition after a shark attack at Nielsen Park in Sydney. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at Shark Beach. Emergency services responded swiftly, providing immediate treatment. The boy suffered severe leg injuries and was airlifted to Sydney Children's Hospital. The beach has been closed to swimmers following the attack.

Mauni Amavasya, observed on January 18, 2026, is a significant Hindu day for ancestral reverence and spiritual renewal. This New Moon in Magha month is considered highly auspicious for warding off negativity. Devotees are encouraged to observe silence, perform holy dips, donate, and honor ancestors, while avoiding hair/nail cutting, non-veg food, harsh words, and conflicts.

India will have a strong presence at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Over 3,000 global leaders will attend. Discussions will focus on dialogue in a fragmented world. Key Indian ministers and chief ministers will participate. Many top Indian CEOs are also expected. Global leaders from government and business will be present.

President Trump's threat of tariffs on eight European nations, including Denmark, for conducting NATO exercises in Greenland signals a volatile approach to international relations. European leaders condemned the move, calling it unacceptable and a form of blackmail, highlighting a shift in alliance dynamics and a return to Trump's transactional foreign policy.

Indian space start-up Galaxeye is set to launch its first satellite, Mission Drishti, in early 2024. This satellite will combine optical and radar imaging for all-weather earth observation. The company plans to expand this into a constellation of ten satellites by 2030. This will provide continuous data for defence, agriculture, and disaster response.

Davos is under unprecedented security for the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. Thousands of armed forces, drones, and special tools are deployed. Global leaders, CEOs, and civil society members are attending. Protests are planned, with authorities ready to manage demonstrations. Security costs are significant, shared by multiple entities. Airspace is restricted to ensure safety.

Returning to Davos after a tumultuous year, President Trump will prioritize domestic issues, aiming to address rising living costs and housing affordability for American voters ahead of midterm elections. While global leaders anticipate discussions on trade, Ukraine, and other international crises, Trump's focus remains on his economic agenda and appealing to his base.

Buddhist philosopher and educator decided to promote peace and dialogue in the world after he witnessed destruction and bitterness during World War II. In one of his quotes, Daisaku Ikeda asks people to focus on strength and positives, rather than flaws and negatives. Strength leads to compassion and harmony, he explains in the quote.

Sigmund Freud believed most people avoid true freedom. This is because freedom demands responsibility. People prefer to follow others rather than face decisions and consequences. Owning choices means accepting both success and failure. Freud suggested that true freedom requires effort, much like a gym membership. It offers tools but demands work. Freedom without responsibility remains a mere fantasy.

American forces eliminated a key Al-Qaeda leader in Syria. This operative had direct ties to the ISIS ambush that claimed the lives of two US soldiers and an interpreter in December. The strike, conducted on January 16, underscores the US commitment to pursuing terrorists.

Davos, Switzerland, once a refuge for tuberculosis patients, now hosts the World Economic Forum. This annual meeting brings together over 3,000 global leaders. The historic Englische Kirche church is a venue for this event. Davos also boasts a rich history with figures like Arthur Conan Doyle and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner.

A Jewish Iraqi family is suing France for 22 million dollars. They claim France occupied their Baghdad mansion as an embassy for decades without paying rent. The family alleges France benefited from Iraq's antisemitic laws that dispossessed Jewish owners. The lawsuit highlights the plight of Iraqi Jews forced to flee their homeland.

Railway Protection Force inspector Chandana Sinha has rescued over 1,500 children from trafficking and exploitation. Her innovative approach involves observing subtle cues and building trust. This dedication earned her Indian Railways' highest service honour. Sinha's work extends beyond routine patrols, creating a network to protect vulnerable children across the rail network.

Republic Day 2026 travel plans: This year, Republic Day 2026 falls on a Monday, which can be a perfect time for travellers to pack their bags and explore some weekend gateways. If you stay in Delhi-NCR, you can explore Manali, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Auli, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Pushkar and much more. Here is a list of travel ideas from Delhi-NCR with a complete itinerary.

Senior BJP leader and former Maharashtra minister Raj K Purohit, a prominent voice for north Indian communities in Mumbai, has passed away at the age of 71 following an illness. Purohit, who served as the party's city president and chief whip in the assembly, was known for his deep grassroots connect and advocacy for migrant tenants.

In an interview with the Swiss-based daily newspaper 20 Minuten, Alois Zwinggi, the Swiss head of the WEF, responded to remarks by the President of the Green Party of Switzerland, Lisa Mazzone, who urged the organisers to prevent Trump's participation, citing Washington's recent intervention in Venezuela, which led to the capture of Nicolas Maduro, former President of the South American nation and his wife, Cilia Flores.

Delhi faces a yellow alert as dense fog blankets the capital. Temperatures are expected to range from 5 to 22 degrees Celsius. Air quality has worsened significantly, entering the severe category. This has prompted the invocation of Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan. Citizens are advised to stay informed about the evolving weather and pollution situation.

India's Supreme Court is reviewing the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. Judges are concerned the law is misused against consensual teenage relationships. They propose a 'Romeo-Juliet' clause to protect genuine adolescent bonds. This aims to differentiate abuse from young love. The court stresses the law's core purpose must be preserved.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has arrived in Davos for the World Economic Forum, aiming to showcase the state as India's premier growth engine globally. He expressed determination to bolster 'Magnetic Maharashtra' on the world stage. This participation follows a successful 2025 WEF where Maharashtra secured Rs 15.7 lakh crore in investment commitments through 54 MoUs.

India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI Live Streaming: The India vs. New Zealand ODI series is tied 1-1, with the final match in Indore on Sunday deciding the winner. India aims for a home series victory, while New Zealand seeks their first ODI series win on Indian soil. The Holkar Stadium pitch is expected to favor batsmen, leading to a closely contested decider.

Authorities apprehended a 41-year-old man following the discovery of multiple pipe bombs near Lake Ginninderra in Belconnen. Police found bomb-making materials at his residence. He faces charges including unauthorized manufacture of a dangerous substance and theft. The investigation is ongoing, and the incident is not considered terrorism-related. The man is scheduled to appear in court.

Despite quick-commerce services dropping the 10-minute delivery promise, delivery workers remain in a whirlwind of speed expectations. The foundational business model places an unwavering spotlight on rapid delivery, affecting both their pay and safety on the job. Customers thirst for immediate gratification feeds into a system that prioritises expediency, leaving workers grappling for clarity on their rights and compensation.

India's trade strategy is at a critical juncture, shifting from broad liberalization to selective engagement. New trade pacts diversify markets, while domestic initiatives like PLI schemes build manufacturing strength. The upcoming Union Budget must focus on enhancing access, ensuring assurance in supply chains, and fostering agility to navigate global trade disruptions and secure India's competitive edge.