The Economic Times

The minister, who chaired a meeting on EoDB and the Single Window Committees, underscored the government's determination to outpace neighboring states in business efficiency.

A captive elephant attacked and seriously injured a 26-year-old man during a temple procession in Kerala, leading to the temporary suspension of the Valiyavilakku festival. The incident, captured on video, has reignited concerns about the welfare of elephants used in religious ceremonies and may prompt a review of safety protocols.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his historic visit to Israel, elevating bilateral ties to a special strategic partnership with 27 agreements signed. Both nations committed to fighting terrorism and deepening cooperation in technology, innovation, and trade, including a Free Trade Agreement. The visit fostered strong diplomatic and personal connections between the leaders.

Kannada film director T A Anish was kidnapped, brutally assaulted with cricket stumps and hockey sticks, and robbed of cash and gold ornaments in Bengaluru. Police have arrested 11 individuals, including a female actor and social media influencer, in connection with the crime, which reportedly stemmed from a financial dispute.

India and Israel will hold the next round of free trade agreement talks in May. This follows successful initial discussions. Prime Minister Modi has called for early finalisation of the ambitious FTA. Both nations aim to unlock untapped trade potential. Discussions covered goods, services, and intellectual property. The agreement seeks to create a stable framework for businesses.

$59 million in quarterly losses and a 90% stock crash define the latest blow to Bitcoin miner American Bitcoin. The Trump-backed crypto venture also reported a $227 million unrealized Bitcoin reserve loss as Bitcoin price volatility shook the 2026 crypto market. Shares plunged as Bitcoin fell from $126,000 to near $70,000. With Bitcoin price volatility shaking the entire crypto mining industry in 2026, investors are asking one urgent question: can American Bitcoin Corp. recover, or is this the b

Former president Bill Clinton is scheduled to answer questions the following day from the Republican-led House Oversight Committee about his relations with Epstein, who died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial.

Former Sri Lankan all-rounder Farveez Maharoof has voiced strong disappointment following the team's T20 World Cup exit, calling their performance shameful. He criticized the batting unit for gifting wickets, highlighting a recurring pattern of soft dismissals. Maharoof urged selectors to make hard decisions about player roles and the team's future direction before the next assignment.

A panel of Indian ministers is set to review a genetically modified rapeseed crop. This decision could pave the way for engineered food varieties in India's vast agricultural market. The government aims to boost farm productivity amid growing population and economic strain. India currently imports significant amounts of vegetable oil. This move follows recent trade talks with the US.

Snowball Earth: Researchers at the University of Southampton have revealed evidence that Earths climate continued to fluctuate during the extreme Cryogenian ice age, known as Snowball Earth. The findings suggest Snowball Earth was not entirely static and may have had habitable oases that supported early complex life. These insights reshape our understanding of ancient climate resilience and planetary systems.

After a two-year injury layoff and the loss of her father, 22-year-old Beauty Dungdung has returned to the Indian Women's Hockey Team camp. She is determined to rebuild her career and support her family, drawing strength from her teammates as she prepares for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.

NASA is monitoring asteroid 2026 CU1, a 140-foot space rock, as it safely passes Earth at 18,000 mph. While not a threat, its close flyby at 764,000 miles offers a valuable opportunity for scientific study and reinforces the importance of continuous monitoring of near-Earth objects.

Thought of the day: In an era where distractions abound and insecurities are amplified, todays Thought of the day stands as a succinct yet stirring appeal: trust yourself, honour your time and recognise your intrinsic worth.

The report held the Electric Train Lighting (ETL) department of the Chennai Depot primarily responsible for the incident. Seven of the eight-member investigating team concluded that evidence suggests the fire started inside the rearmost coach from the train's emergency light unit battery.

Bengaluru AQI: These notices will require authorities to improve air quality within a specified timeframe, failing which the forest, environment, and ecology department will take legal action, forest, environment & ecology minister Eshwar Khandre said in a statement.

Patiala House Court granted three days' custody to five Indian Youth Congress workers arrested in connection with the AI Summit protest. Police sought remand to investigate their role in shirtless protests and identify the printing press for T-shirts. The court granted further custody for two and a fresh five-day custody for three others arrested from Himachal Pradesh.

IRS tax refund 2026: The IRS opened its 2026 filing season on January 26. Over 31 million Americans are already waiting on refunds. The average payout this year hits nearly $4,000. If you filed early with direct deposit, your money could arrive by February 17. But millions claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit face a hard federal freeze until March 2. The PATH Act blocks every refund dollar not just the credit. Paper checks are gone in 2026. Direct deposit is now mandatory. One filing mistake c

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared a personal connection to India. He revealed his first date with his wife Sara was at an Indian restaurant in Tel Aviv. The owner of the establishment recalls the event and Netanyahu's fondness for Indian dishes. This personal anecdote highlights a unique bond between the leaders and their nations.

Opal meaning: Opal, a gemstone of hydrated silica, captivates with its shifting rainbow colors. This precious stone, used in jewelry, boasts a rich history and fascinating origins. Australia is a major source of opals. Historically, opals were linked to good luck and even invisibility. This gemstone is the birthstone for October, symbolizing hope and creativity.

Iran braces for possible U.S. military action in the Middle East. While Iran is outmatched, it retains missile capabilities to strike U.S. bases and allies. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical point of vulnerability. Regional allies express concern about escalating conflict and its impact on global oil trade. Iran's nuclear program also remains a point of contention.

Their 89-run stand for the eighth wicket is behind the unbeaten 132-run stand for the ninth wicket between Belgium's Saber Zakhil and Saqlain Ali, who stitched it against Austria in 2021.

During the meeting, a majority of the political parties commended the Election Commission of India (ECI) for the peaceful and smooth conduct of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state. Additionally, most parties also submitted formal requests urging the ECI to conduct the upcoming elections in a single phase to ensure better management and transparency.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called for moral accountability from public office-bearers named in the 'Epstein files', contrasting India's lack of action with international resignations. She emphasized that interacting with a convicted paedophile warrants accountability, especially for ministers. Vadra also highlighted the need for expedited disaster relief and stronger healthcare outreach in Kerala.

After the West Indies fought back from deep trouble at 83-7 to post 176-8, Markram and Quinton de Kock put on 95 for the first wicket to set the platform for a thumping victory.

India slammed Pakistan at the UN, calling its claims on Jammu and Kashmir la-la land and highlighting the region's developmental budget exceeding Pakistan's IMF bailout. India asserted that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, urging Pakistan to vacate illegally occupied territories.

India's path to the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals is challenging after a heavy defeat to South Africa. They must win their remaining Super 8 matches against Zimbabwe and West Indies convincingly to improve their net run rate and secure qualification, potentially needing favourable results elsewhere if tied on points.

Marlon Brando, a legendary actor, shared a powerful quote about life. He believed regret is useless as it belongs to the past. Brando's words highlight the importance of the present moment. His life and career, marked by highs and lows, underscore this philosophy. The article explores his early life, his revolutionary acting style, and his enduring impact on cinema.

Bridgerton Season 4 Part 2 is currently streaming on Netflix. Benedict and Sophie are central characters of the show.

Tobacco settlement funds in the U.S. are under pressure as payments linked to the 1998 tobacco settlement may decline. About $206 billion was paid in the first 25 years under the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. Declining smoking rates are reducing tobacco company payouts. Programs in Kentucky depend on this money for healthcare and education. Officials warn funding could shrink further. Governments are now searching for new revenue sources to replace tobacco settlement funds.

Largest data breach in US history: A massive cyberattack has exposed the personal and health data of over 25 million Americans. Social Security numbers and addresses are among the compromised information. Texas and Oregon are among the hardest-hit states. Experts urge immediate action to protect yourself. This incident marks the largest data breach in US history.

Officials responsible with ensuring internal security of the country suggested the two BOPs have been established to enhance surveillance and plug vulnerabilities along the porous international border with Nepal.

Quote of the day: Spencer Tracys quote, The only thing an actor has to offer a director and finally an audience is his instinct, conveys his belief in authenticity over technique. As a legendary Hollywood actor, Tracy established his career on natural performances that felt sincere and emotionally honest. He viewed instinct as the essential quality that transforms scripted dialogue into believable human experience.

Blood Moon Eclipse: A total lunar eclipse takes place when Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon during a full Moon, creating a straight-line alignment that casts Earths shadow across the lunar surface.

Quote of the day by Andrew Carnegie: Andrew Carnegies $310 billion inflation-adjusted fortune proves his one basket rule works. Most businesses fail by scattering resources. Carnegie focused solely on steel. This singular focus slashed production costs by 89%. He moved from a penniless immigrant to the world's richest man. His strategy? Master one niche completely. Do not diversify too early. High-concentration leads to market dominance. Today, top CEOs still follow this blueprint. Focus creates

Gold rate today: Non-yielding gold is seen as a safe store of value during times of geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with her brother, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, laid the foundation stone for houses for victims of the 2024 Mundakkai-Chooralmala landslide in Wayanad. Addressing survivors, Priyanka Gandhi praised their resilience, courage, and community solidarity in the aftermath of the disaster, which claimed 300 lives and destroyed homes, schools, and businesses.

Sunetra Pawar has been elected the new National President of the Nationalist Congress Party. The decision was made at the party's national executive meeting. Praful Patel proposed her name, and Sunil Tatkare seconded it. Sunetra Pawar takes over from her late husband, Ajit Pawar, who tragically passed away. She also recently became Deputy Chief Minister.

Sanjay Dutt is set to return to the big screen as the iconic villain in Khalnayak Returns. Aspect Production has acquired the rights for the sequel to the 1993 hit film. The new story will build on the legacy of the original. Further details on the cast, director, and release date will be announced soon.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a joint press briefing with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasized global stability and humanity's protection from conflict. He reaffirmed India's support for the Gaza Peace Initiative, viewing it as a crucial step towards lasting and fair peace in the region. Both leaders also underscored their shared resolve against terrorism and radicalism.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merzs first official visit to China blended high-level diplomacy with viral spectacle as humanoid robots welcomed him in a moment that captivated social media. In meetings with President Xi Jinping, Merz pushed to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership while addressing Germanys developing trade deficit and supply chain challenges. Discussions covered industrial competition, technology collaboration, and geopolitical issues such as Taiwan and Ukraine, underscor

The Supreme Court has scheduled a new hearing to form an expert panel for defining the Aravalli hills' boundaries and addressing related concerns. All mining activities have been halted, and this status quo will be maintained. The court previously put in abeyance its decision to accept the Central Environment Ministry's definition, which risked exposing the region to regulated mining.

Preparing a nutritious meal during the morning rush can be the most stressful part of a workday, but the Indian kitchen offers brilliant solutions for the organized professional. By shifting the heavy lifting to the evening before, you can enjoy authentic, home-cooked flavors without the time pressure. Here is the story of seven make-ahead Indian breakfasts designed to fuel your busy 2026 work week.

Quote of the Day by Bill Gates: Bill Gates says you shouldnt blindly follow what everyone else is doing. Sometimes choosing a different path can lead to bigger opportunities. Success often comes to those who think independently and take smart risks. The quote is: Doing what everyone else does may not lead to big success. Sometimes, trying a different path can bring better results.

As the petitioners also wanted for an interim order restraining the Chief Minister from making statements, the court however, only said, Let the notices be issued first. It will be a normal restraint while this petition is pending consideration, said the judges orally.