The Economic Times

Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. This follows senior leader Raghav Chadha's similar move. Maliwal alleged Arvind Kejriwal had her beaten and pressured her to withdraw an FIR. She accused the AAP leadership of misgovernance and corruption in Punjab. Maliwal praised Prime Minister Modi's leadership and historic decisions for the nation.

Singur's landscape is marked by abandoned factory remnants and damaged farmland. The Tata Motors Nano project's 2008 exit reshaped Bengal politics, bringing Mamata Banerjee to power. Eighteen years later, the land remains unproductive. Many who opposed the factory now regret the lost industrial opportunities and jobs.

Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh has issued a stern warning. He stated that Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Parvesh Verma and television channels will face legal action. This is due to the circulation of what Singh described as fake images of Arvind Kejriwal's residence. The party asserts the pictures are fabricated and intends to pursue a defamation case.

IPL 2026 DC vs PBKS Pitch Report: Delhi Capitals face the undefeated Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 25. While PBKS looks to maintain their top spot, DC aims to recover from a heavy loss against SRH. Get the full pitch report, weather update, and head-to-head stats for this Match 35 clash.

DC vs PBKS Playing 11: Delhi Capitals face table-toppers Punjab Kings on April 25, 2026, at Arun Jaitley Stadium. This afternoon encounter is crucial for DC to bounce back from a recent loss, while PBKS aims to extend their winning streak in IPL 2026. The match begins at 3:30 PM IST.

A young lawyer who allegedly jumped from the fifth floor of a court in Kanpur blamed his father for his extreme step and blamed him for atrocities and childhood trauma. He mentioned in the note that he lost and his father won, writing that his father should not even touch his body. He also wrote that he wished no one should get a father like him.

A young businessman running a company with 1 crore annual revenue was convinced by bank officials to buy three non-market linked insurance policies with a combined yearly premium of 11 lakh, promised as 100% tax-free. After paying 22 lakh, he discovered that exceeding the 5 lakh aggregate premium limit under new tax rules makes the maturity proceeds taxable, resulting in a potential 15 lakh loss on surrender.

A political row has erupted in Karnataka after students were allegedly asked to remove their sacred 'janeu' threads before writing the Common Entrance Test. The BJP has accused the Congress government of religious discrimination and appeasement politics. The college has suspended an invigilator and a government probe has been ordered. Police have detained staff for questioning.

India is gearing up for Census 2027, the nation's 16th census. This massive undertaking will be the world's largest, featuring digital integration and mobile data collection. The census will capture detailed demographic, social, and economic information. Comprehensive caste enumeration is also planned. The government has approved significant funding for this crucial exercise, ensuring accurate data for policymaking.

Three men in a BMW and Toyota Fortuner allegedly attacked and briefly kidnapped a toll worker near Bengaluru after refusing to pay the toll. Claiming ties to a local MLA, they forced their way through the barrier, assaulting the toll collector and his colleague. Police have registered an FIR and are searching for the accused.

The Karnataka High Court has observed that India being a secular country does not mean Dharmic and cultural activities cannot be allowed. The court made the remarks while setting aside a Bengaluru civic body order that had denied permission to Malleshwaram Brahmana Sabha to hold Shankaracharya Jayanti at an auditorium in Sankey Tank Park.

Two young women face charges after RSL sub-branches in Melbourne were defaced with offensive graffiti on Anzac Day. Police apprehended the pair, aged 20 and 22, spray-painting a Heidelberg RSL, with similar vandalism reported at Reservoir and Fawkner RSLs targeting veterans and the ADF. The community has rallied in support.

A viral video is raising concerns about everyday tea and coffee habits. It claims that hot beverages in paper cups can expose consumers to microplastics and harmful metals. The clip demonstrates how the inner lining of paper cups may separate. This revelation is prompting many to reconsider their use of disposable cups.

DR Sudhir Kumar, a Hyderabad-based neurologist at Apollo Hospitals, revealed a case in which a woman experienced strange pain in her legs for around 6 months, and the pain worsened at night while lying down. The case turned out to be Restless Legs Syndrome, which is mostly caused by a lack of iron in the body.

Russian influencers are publicly criticising President Putin's government and policies. This dissent stems from economic hardship and strict internet controls. While not an immediate threat, it signals a growing challenge for the Kremlin. Putin's approval ratings have seen a decline. Internet shutdowns and a strained economy are fueling public frustration across Russia.

Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory for the upcoming IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings on April 25. Commuters can expect significant congestion in central Delhi due to the match, with potential road diversions and restrictions in place from 1 pm to 9 pm.

US-Iran war impact: Gulf crude oil output may rebound quickly once the Strait of Hormuz reopens. Goldman Sachs research suggests a swift recovery is possible within months. However, a full return to pre-war levels could take longer. Pipeline capacity, tanker availability, and field workovers will influence the speed of the ramp-up. Extended closure risks prolonged delays and potential capacity scarring.

Giant octopus fossil: A new study published in Science reveals that giant octopus-like creatures up to 19 metres long lived as apex predators in the ancient oceans 100 million years ago. Fossilised beaks show they crushed bones and rivalled mosasaurs. The discovery suggests these intelligent invertebrates dominated marine food webs long before modern legends of the Kraken.

Islamabad faces a week-long security lockdown. Markets are deserted and transport disrupted. This is the second lockdown in recent weeks. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived for talks. US officials were also expected. Hopes remain for engagements to promote regional peace and stability. The first round of talks failed to produce a breakthrough.

Microsoft's voluntary retirement: US tech company Microsoft has announced its first-ever voluntary retirement program and the scheme is open to around 7% of its US workforce. If an employee's age and years of service must add up to 70, then he/she is eligible for voluntary retirement and the program is limited to those at the senior director level and below.

A 25-year-old product manager in Gurgaon shared his monthly expenses, totaling 90,000. Despite living frugally with no expensive hobbies, his costs include rent, subscriptions, groceries, and a significant 30,000 trip. The post resonated with young professionals facing similar financial realities in urban India.

Former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane has released a new book. It reveals lesser-known stories from India's armed forces. The book unearths military myths and mysteries. It includes tales of soldiers, naval incidents, and airmen. The book is researched and readable. It highlights duty, loyalty, and tradition within the forces.

The Election Commission (EC) has said that no repoll will be held in any polling stations in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu where assembly elections were conducted on Thursday.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported Chinese aircraft and vessels near its territory. This follows similar detections on previous days. China claims Taiwan as its own territory. Taiwan maintains its independent governance. The island's status remains a significant international point of debate.

Rudraprayag is battling 20 forest fires this season. Nearly 15 hectares of forest land have been impacted. Officials cite dry weather and human negligence for the surge. Several fires appear to be deliberately set. Authorities are taking strict action against offenders, including financial penalties and jail time. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the fires.

Iran's Foreign Minister is in Islamabad for talks. Meanwhile, Iran's Defence Ministry states much of its missile capability is unused. The country asserts control over the Strait of Hormuz. Domestic support for the nation is highlighted. Internal divisions over diplomacy are also noted.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's recent selfie has caused a stir on Indian social media. She was seen wearing traditional Indian jhumka earrings with a formal outfit. This fashion choice has led to widespread reactions, memes, and a sense of cultural pride online. The jhumkas, a symbol of Indian tradition, captured attention globally.

Europe faces a severe fuel crisis and soaring energy costs due to the Iran war. The European Union is now exploring new energy routes in the Middle East. This aims to avoid chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Leaders discussed strengthening defense ties and supporting Middle Eastern energy infrastructure.

Garena Free Fire MAX is offering players a chance to snag free in-game items through redeem codes released today, April 25, 2026. These 12-character alphanumeric codes are time-sensitive and can be redeemed only once. Players can visit the official Garena redemption site, log in, and enter the code to claim their rewards before they expire.

Stop wasting money on wilted herbs with these six simple Indian kitchen hacks. From the unusual Vase Method to using traditional steel dabbas and turmeric baths, these stories show you how to manage moisture and bacteria to keep your green coriander vibrant and aromatic for a full week.

Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, revolutionized communication by enabling instant long-distance conversations. His quote, Before anything else, preparation is the key to success, underscores the importance of planning. Born in 1847 in Scotland, Bell's legacy continues to shape our connected world, from early innovations to modern digital communication.

UK board 12th Toppers: The Uttarakhand Board of School Education will announce the UK Board Class 12 Result 2026 on April 25 at 10 AM. The toppers list will also be released. Over one lakh students appeared for the exams. Students can check their results online at uaresults.nic.in by entering their roll number. A minimum of 33% is required to pass each subject.

Quote of the Day: Chris Hemsworth delivered a powerful quote in the film Rush. The line The closer you are to death, the more alive you feel captures the intense mindset of Formula 1 drivers. This sentiment resonates with the idea that facing risks can deepen our appreciation for life. Hemsworth's portrayal of James Hunt showcased his acting range.

Unusual US fuel shipments to Asia reveal global oil supply chain disruptions. Military-grade jet fuel and diesel are sailing from Washington state to the Philippines and Japan. These voyages underscore the impact of the Iran war on oil flows. Asia-Pacific nations are increasingly relying on US supplies as traditional routes are constrained. This trend highlights a global jet fuel crunch.

India faces a split weather forecast with heatwaves gripping northern and central regions while eastern, northeastern, and southern states brace for rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds. The IMD predicts prolonged heat in Rajasthan and widespread heavy showers in the Northeast, alongside unstable weather across eastern India.

UK board 10th Toppers: The names of Class 10 toppers, their marks and rankings will be released along with the UK Board Class 10th results today. Last year, two students, Kamal Singh Chauhan and Jatin Joshi, secured the top position in Class 10, getting 99.20 percent. Students can check names of toppers on ubse.uk.gov.in and uaresults.nic.in

Israel-Lebanon ceasefire has been extended. White House officials announced the development as a positive step for peace. Representatives from both nations met in Washington. US President Donald Trump confirmed the extension. The US hopes for further discussions and welcomes leaders from both countries. This agreement marks progress in the region.

India and New Zealand are set to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on April 27, 2026, marking a major step in strengthening bilateral economic relations. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the agreement will open a new chapter in ties between the two countries and described it as a defining moment in the partnership.

The US government is exploring options to support Spirit Airlines. The Defense Production Act may be used to provide financial assistance. This move aims to keep the airline operational for passengers and staff. Spirit Airlines requires new financing urgently. A court hearing is scheduled to discuss a bankruptcy exit plan. The administration's offer is under review by creditors.

A massive fire engulfed over 100 shanties in Delhi's Shakur Basti area late Friday night. The blaze spread rapidly across a two-acre area. Firefighters worked through the night to control the flames. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Cooling operations continued to prevent any resurgence of the fire.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday carried out raids at multiple locations in West Bengal as part of its money laundering investigation linked to an alleged Public Distribution System (PDS) wheat scam.

Global trade routes are shifting dramatically. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran war is forcing ships to use the Panama Canal. Companies are paying millions for urgent passage. This is impacting supply chains worldwide. Panama is earning significantly more from canal fees. The situation highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Kuwait reported drone attacks from Iraq hitting border posts. The incident caused material damage but no injuries. Iraq has launched an investigation to identify those responsible. This event follows a period of regional conflict and attacks on various interests. Kuwait and other Gulf nations have previously protested such actions originating from Iraq.

India and the United States have discussed strengthening their energy partnership, including cooperation in nuclear power, coal gasification and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) trade, during a high-level meeting in Washington.

Uttarakhand Board Result 2026 DigiLocker: UK board Class 10 and 12 results are set for declaration today. Students can check their marksheets on ubse.uk.gov.in and uaresults.nic.in. The results will also include improvement examination results for 2025. Exams concluded in March. This announcement is crucial for students' next academic steps and college admissions. Digital access ensures quick and secure access to results.

The US military has said it killed two people in a strike on a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in the Eastern Pacific, as part of its ongoing campaign against what it calls narco-terrorists in Latin America. The US Southern Command stated that the vessel was operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations and was moving along known narcotics routes when it was targeted in a lethal kinetic strike. Officials said intelligence confirmed involvement in drug-trafficking activities.

Kazakhstan is emerging as a key digital hub in Central Asia, backed by a broad national push in artificial intelligence, digital governance, connectivity and startup development. The country has rolled out major reforms and infrastructure upgrades to position itself as a bridge between Europe and Asia in the global technology race.