The Economic Times

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.