The Economic Times

Detective Brian Martin believes Nancy Guthrie's kidnappers underestimated her health, potentially leading to a fatal medical event. He suggests the motive was monetary, and once that failed, Guthrie's body became a disposal problem. Despite 66 days missing, Martin considers the case active, with ongoing tips and electronic information crucial to finding her.

New jobless claims in the US saw a slight increase last week. This indicates the labor market remains stable, not showing signs of weakening. This stability could allow the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates unchanged. The Fed is closely watching economic impacts from the Iran conflict. Oil prices have surged, affecting gasoline prices and the stock market.

Penumbrous is a word that inhabits the delicate space between light and shadow, clarity and obscurity. Whether used in scientific explanation or creative expression, it captures the beauty of partial understanding and subtle transitions.

Israel's attacks in Lebanon threaten a U.S.-Iran ceasefire. Pakistan is hosting peace talks for the conflict. Iran maintains its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, causing global energy supply disruptions. Oil prices are reaching record highs. Israel states its actions in Lebanon are not part of the truce. Iran insists on a comprehensive deal for peace.

West Asia War: NATO chief Mark Rutte has informed member nations that US President Donald Trump seeks urgent commitments to secure the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after Rutte's visit to Washington. Tensions remain high despite a recent US-Iran ceasefire aimed at reopening the vital oil shipping lane.

Kashmiri Millet Pulao Recipe: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India introduces Kashmiri Millet Pulao. This dish offers a nutritious twist on a classic, using ancient grains instead of refined rice. It is packed with flavor from aromatic spices, nuts, and dried fruits. FSSAI encourages everyone to try this simple yet delicious recipe for a healthier meal option.

NASA warns no plan B Artemis II: The Artemis II crew has set a new human spaceflight distance record, reaching 248,655 miles from Earth. However, NASA warns the most dangerous phase, re-entry, is ahead. The mission's success hinges on the Orion spacecraft's heat shield withstanding extreme temperatures, as preparations for splashdown are underway.

Russia's Supreme Court has declared the Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights group Memorial an extremist organization. This move intensifies legal penalties for those who support or work with the group. Memorial, founded to document Soviet-era repression, has documented modern-day political prisoners and rights abuses. The group was previously liquidated in 2021 and its international arm declared undesirable.

Google agreed to a $135 million settlement about Android data collection. Some Android users in the U.S. may get cash payments. People must have used cellular data during the listed period to qualify. Users need to select a payment method online. The deadline is important. Payments may vary. The case is still waiting for final approval before money is sent.

Searching for what to watch on OTT this week? The second week of April is packed with high-stakes premieres across Netflix, Prime Video, JioHotstar, and ZEE5. The spotlight shines on the global finale of The Boys and the long-awaited time-jump in Euphoria Season 3.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte faces Donald Trump's frustration regarding the U.S.-Israel war on Iran. Trump criticises allies and questions NATO's relevance. Rutte, known as a 'Trump whisperer', works to maintain U.S. involvement in the alliance. The war itself is outside NATO's operational scope. Rutte emphasises NATO's defensive role and its focus on its own territory.

A US Navy drone, an MQ-4C Triton, experienced an in-flight emergency over the Persian Gulf. The aircraft squawked a general emergency signal and rapidly descended. Its tracking signal then disappeared over the Gulf waters. The US military has not confirmed the incident. The Triton is a high-altitude surveillance drone used for maritime monitoring.

Gold and silver prices down today: Gold prices fall to $4,714.53, slipping below key support as inflation fears rise again. Silver prices also drop near $74, showing broad weakness in precious metals today. Investors are cautious before the crucial U.S. inflation data release. Strong bond yields and a rising dollar are pressuring bullion hard. This shift is challenging the safe haven narrative around gold and silver prices. Markets now see inflation as the bigger risk than geopolitical tensions.

A Public Interest Litigation filed in the Supreme Court demands new Aadhaar cards be issued only to children under six. The petition also calls for stricter guidelines for adolescents and adults. This move aims to prevent infiltrators from obtaining Aadhaar and falsely claiming Indian citizenship. The plea highlights concerns about the current verification process being weak and easily manipulated.

Gujarat Titans secured a thrilling victory over Delhi Capitals in a last-over IPL encounter. Rashid Khan delivered a match-winning spell, earning him Player of the Match. KL Rahul's impressive innings kept Delhi Capitals in contention. This win marks Gujarat Titans' first of the season. Delhi Capitals will now face Chennai Super Kings.

A senior election observer was removed from his post after a heated exchange with the Chief Election Commissioner. The incident occurred during a high-level election review meeting. The observer reportedly challenged the CEC's remarks. Sources indicated the removal was due to professional incompetence, not the confrontation. The meeting also addressed vulnerable polling booths.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial restarts Sunday. This follows the lifting of a state of emergency declared due to conflict with Iran. The trial, which began in 2020, involves charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Netanyahu denies these allegations. The judicial system returns to normal operations. The ongoing legal proceedings could impact his political future.

The Masters 2026 golf tournament begins Thursday, April 9. Ninety-one golfers will compete for the green jacket at Augusta National. Viewers can watch the event on CBS and ESPN. Free streaming options include the Masters App and Paramount+. Fubo also offers a free trial for new subscribers. The tournament runs through Sunday, April 12.

Madhya Pradesh is set to implement the Uniform Civil Code by Diwali. This move aligns with the Bharatiya Janata Party's agenda for national unity. A draft bill will be prepared within six months. The law aims to ensure equal rights for all citizens. Uttarakhand and Gujarat have already introduced similar codes. The state government will consult experts and community representatives.

Israel vows to continue strikes on Hezbollah, aiming to restore security to its northern residents. Meanwhile, Iran accuses the US and Israel of violating a temporary ceasefire agreement. This has led Iran to threaten withdrawal from upcoming talks in Islamabad. The negotiations were intended to de-escalate regional conflict. Both sides remain prepared for further action.

A fragile ceasefire in the Iran war is under severe strain. Israel's intense bombing of Beirut and Iran's continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz are creating major hurdles. Negotiators face significant challenges in resolving disputes over Lebanon's inclusion, Iran's nuclear program, and the resumption of vital oil shipments. Peace talks are scheduled in Pakistan.

Punjab Kings player Cooper Connolly is proving T20 cricket success can come from timing and tempo. He believes in his strengths, not just power. Connolly aims to pressure spinners to bring back pacers, where he performs best. His approach delivered on IPL debut with an unbeaten 72. He adapts his game while trusting his established methods.

Under the Trump administration, coal power is making a comeback, as plans to phase out coal plants are being scrapped. This change is designed to guarantee coal supply during intense weather conditions. However, specialists caution that this could lead to a spike in electricity prices and a rise in pollution levels.

Todays oil price surge and current oil and gas prices outlook: Oil prices jumped sharply today, with Brent crude at $98.82 and WTI near $99.47. Both benchmarks surged over 45% in a single session. This oil price surge reflects rising supply risks and fragile ceasefire conditions. The Strait of Hormuz remains restricted, limiting global oil flows. Around 20% of world energy supply depends on this route. Shipping disruptions and tanker delays are tightening supply quickly. Oil and gas prices outlo

The upcoming testimony is expected to provide further clarity on the nature of Gates relationship with Epstein. While such interviews are typically conducted behind closed doors, transcripts or recordings may be released later.

IPL 2026 KKR vs LSG head-to-head stats: Kolkata Knight Riders face Lucknow Super Giants seeking their first win. KKR's batting and bowling have struggled. Mohammed Shami poses a threat. Lucknow Super Giants are confident with strong bowling and batting from Rishabh Pant. KKR's opening pair and key bowlers are under pressure. Weather could impact the match.

Iran's parliament speaker has issued a stern warning. He stated that continued Israeli attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon will result in explicit costs and strong responses. The speaker emphasized the need to extinguish the conflict immediately. This development comes as the speaker is being considered for a potential meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

The Strait of Hormuz is no longer a free waterway. A recent ceasefire pauses a conflict that highlighted its importance. Future governance will require diplomatic skill. The strait's status has changed, impacting global energy supplies. Solutions may involve models from other straits, allowing coastal states rights while preserving navigation. Iran seeks control, but bypass options for oil are growing.

Pakistan is mediating peace talks between the US and Iran. Both nations remain divided on crucial issues. Iran's proposal includes uranium enrichment, which the US opposes. The fate of the Strait of Hormuz, vital for oil transport, is a major point of contention. Iran has indicated it will charge transit fees.

Rashmika Mandanna Father Gift: Rashmika Mandanna celebrated her 30th birthday with a significant family gift: a bungalow named 'Serenity' near her hometown. This milestone follows her recent wedding to Vijay Deverakonda, marking a new chapter. The celebrations in Virajpet included traditional Kodava customs and community outreach.

Bengaluru High Court dismissed a public interest litigation challenging the home ministry's advisory on singing Vande Mataram. The court noted the advisory used the word 'may', indicating it was not mandatory. Singing Vande Mataram is not compulsory like the national anthem.

Delhi Police arrested a 49-year-old restaurateur, son of Khan Chacha's founder, for allegedly providing mule accounts to scammers. The account, linked to his company, was used to route Rs 3.3 crore from cyber-fraud victims. He and his brother admitted to using the account for a commission due to financial difficulties.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari stressed the need for a futuristic vision for India's development. He highlighted the importance of identifying key growth sectors and focusing on research. Gadkari mentioned the potential of the blue economy, particularly fishing, to contribute significantly to the economy. He also emphasized reducing production costs without compromising quality.

A viral video shows nearly 11,000 litres of milk being poured into the Narmada river, sparking outrage. Critics condemn the act as harmful devotion, warning of damage to aquatic ecosystems due to oxygen depletion. This incident highlights concerns about pollution disguised as faith, contrasting with past reports of milk dilution for a mid-day meal scheme.

A large wave of Israeli strikes on Lebanon killed at least 89 people and wounded 722 others on Wednesday, health minister Rakan Nassereddine told Al Jazeera. The initial and non-final toll...00 pm (1400 GMT), he said. nad-lar/jsa

UAE stock markets saw a significant rally following an overnight Iran-US ceasefire. Investors expressed relief after days of regional tensions. However, businesses are adopting a wait-and-see approach. They need more clarity before making crucial decisions. Retail businesses are experiencing an initial boost. Other sectors remain cautious about future developments.

Delhi Police concluded Operation CyHawk 4.0, a massive 48-hour coordinated strike against organized cybercrime syndicates across 20 states and Union Territories. Orchestrated between April 6 and April 8, the crackdown involved over 600 teams and resulted in the arrest of 660 suspects and the registration of 499 FIRs. Working with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), investigators linked 519 crore in defrauded funds to identified mule accounts and mobile networks.

Six employees of a Nashik IT firm face arrest following numerous complaints from women colleagues. Allegations include sexual harassment, exploitation, and hurting religious sentiments. A special investigation team has been formed. One accused faces a rape charge. The company's HR is also under scrutiny. Police urge victims to come forward.

Indian farmers are selling rapeseed to private traders. Market prices are higher than government rates. This is due to a rally in edible oil prices linked to the Iran war. Higher rapeseed oil supplies are limiting edible oil imports. This trend is easing reliance on costly palm oil, soy oil, and sunflower oil imports.

Indian merchandise exports are projected to decline by 2-3% in 2025-26. Global economic uncertainties, amplified by the West Asia crisis, are the primary drivers. This situation has already impacted shipments, increasing freight and raw material costs. While goods exports face a downturn, services exports are anticipated to grow. Exporters hope for stabilization following a ceasefire announcement.

Trump's praise for Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir stems from psychological needs. Munir offers Trump validation, mirroring his admiration for strong leaders. This relationship bypasses normal diplomacy, focusing on mutual ego gratification and transactional benefits. It highlights Trump's preference for personalised loyalty over institutional alliances, shaping his foreign policy decisions.

The Bombay High Court stressed the need for Indian citizens to develop civic sense and adhere to traffic rules, drawing parallels with developed nations. Justice Jitendra Jain highlighted that parents must set good examples for children by following rules, urging pedestrians and vehicle drivers to obey signals and regulations to prevent accidents.