The Economic Times
Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
Sattu is India's original superfood, offering a perfect blend of cooling properties and high-quality plant protein. From savory morning chillas and energy-boosting smoothies to the classic cooling sharbat, these seven easy Sattu recipes provide a delicious, affordable, and traditional way to stay fit and energized in 2026.
India and New Zealand are set to sign a free trade agreement on April 27. This pact will significantly boost bilateral trade. Indian companies, especially leather exporters from Agra, will gain duty-free access to New Zealand markets. The agreement aims to double trade and attract substantial investment over fifteen years.
Quote of the Day: Eddie Rickenbacker, a World War I fighter ace, defined courage as acting despite fear. He believed true bravery emerges when one confronts their fears. Rickenbacker's life, filled with high-risk situations, shaped this perspective. His experiences highlight that facing challenges builds resilience. He earned the Medal of Honor and became an aviation pioneer. His legacy inspires many.
The Supreme Court has clarified a significant legal point. A court possesses the authority to deny anticipatory bail to an accused individual. However, it lacks the jurisdiction to mandate that the accused surrender before the trial court. This ruling stems from a case where the Jharkhand High Court had directed an accused to surrender after rejecting his bail plea.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt's remark about shots fired during President Trump's address gained a chilling significance after an armed attacker opened fire at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. The incident, which occurred near the event's screening area, triggered panic and a swift security response, with the suspect apprehended unharmed.
TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna revealed party chief Vijay directed candidates to monitor EVM strong rooms. Elections concluded on April 23 with high turnout. Candidates will inspect strong rooms on rotation. Arjuna urged transparent counting and adequate security for May 4. He anticipates a democratic victory for TVK, predicting a government change based on people's verdict.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Rabindranath Tagore's legacy on his birth anniversary. He noted Tagore's role in shaping institutions and promoting sustainable industries. Modi also spoke about an organization in Chile spreading Buddha's teachings. He emphasized the relevance of compassion and peace for the future. The Prime Minister mentioned efforts in India connecting people with nature.
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Dum Dum Uttar constituency is no longer a guaranteed win for the TMC. Senior minister Chandrima Bhattacharya faces a tough contest. The BJP's growing presence and public discontent over civic issues like waterlogging and poor roads have intensified the election. New candidates from the BJP and CPI(M) are adding to the competition. The election is set for April 29.
President Trump and First Lady Melania were urgently escorted out of the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on April 25, 2026, after a man armed with a shotgun tried to breach security. Guests took cover amid chaos as Secret Service agents drew guns and evacuated top officials including Mike Johnson and RFK Jr. Suspect Cole Tomas Allen was detained.
White House shooting: President Donald Trump commended the media for their responsible reporting following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner. The event, which was evacuated due to suspected gunshots, will be rescheduled within 30 days. Trump highlighted the importance of free speech and unity, noting the coming together of people from diverse political backgrounds during the chaotic evening.
Jules Neale criticized the Brisbane Lions for sharing an Instagram video of their daughter Piper appearing distressed before Lachie Neale's 300th game. The now-deleted clip, captioned 'our shy queen,' showed Piper visibly scared, prompting Jules to state she was not shy but frightened. The incident follows the couple's separation amid allegations of betrayal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about wildlife conservation efforts leading to the return of blackbucks in Chhattisgarh. He also highlighted the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard. The Prime Minister celebrated India's success at an international cheese competition in Brazil. Indian cheesemakers won multiple awards, showcasing the growth of India's dairy sector and the global reach of its flavors.
Assam has apprehended and pushed back 20 foreign nationals to Bangladesh. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that such actions will continue. The state shares a significant border with Bangladesh, with multiple integrated check posts facilitating border management. Assam Police and BSF are committed to preventing illegal entry from Bangladesh.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a historic milestone. India's Kalpakkam fast breeder reactor has achieved criticality. This achievement showcases indigenous nuclear technology. Indian scientists have brought glory to the nation. This marks a significant step in India's nuclear energy journey. The reactor uses Uranium-Plutonium Mixed Oxide fuel. It is designed to use Thorium-232 in the future.
Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited has released admit cards for its officer-level exam on April 26, 2026. Candidates must carry a printed copy to the Computer-Based Test center for entry. The hall ticket, accessible via the official HPCL website, contains crucial exam details. Regularly check the website for further recruitment updates.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the national Census as a vital citizen responsibility. He assured that all information provided will remain secure and confidential. Census 2027 is now digital, allowing citizens to self-enumerate for 15 days before official visits.
India has achieved a significant milestone in wind energy. The nation's wind generation capacity has now surpassed 56 gigawatts. This places India in the fourth position globally for wind energy capacity. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of engineers and the collective willpower of the country. It marks a strong acceleration in India's renewable energy journey.
US-Iran war: President Donald Trump stated Iran's proposal was insufficient for talks. Trump mentioned long travel times and high costs as reasons for cancellation. He also noted a lack of senior-level engagement from Iran. Trump claimed Iran submitted a better proposal after the cancellation.
A massive fraud of Rs 7.31 crore has been uncovered at a Canara Bank branch in Jalna, Maharashtra. Police report that ornaments from gold loan accounts were stolen and replaced with fake jewellery. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring the possibility of a larger conspiracy involving more people.
According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), officials briefed the CM on the district-wise situation. Out of a total of 4,510 fuel outlets in the state, around 421 have been shut temporarily due to supply constraints. Officials also noted that although fuel supply has increased by nearly 10 per cent compared to earlier levels, panic buying has led to a heavy rush at several petrol stations.
Bhabanipur, Mamata Banerjee's stronghold, faces a crucial election against Suvendu Adhikari. This contest is seen as a symbolic rematch of Nandigram. The election will determine Banerjee's political authority and test the BJP's ambition. The outcome could signal the direction of Bengal's politics for 2026.
The Charminar Express experienced a halt at Aler Railway Station on April 25th. Smoke and sparks were observed from a coach's wheel due to brake binding. Railway staff promptly extinguished the issue. The train resumed its journey to Tambaram shortly after. No damage or injuries were reported in the incident.
An Indian software engineer's post comparing a London house price to Indian property costs has gone viral. The Wembley property, costing around 6 crore, sparked discussions on real estate values in India. Users debated space limitations and pricing in Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi NCR. The conversation highlighted differing market dynamics and user perspectives on affordability.
West Bengal Elections: Tensions flared in Bhabanipur as TMC and BJP workers clashed after Mamata Banerjee accused BJP of disrupting her rally with loudspeakers near Suvendu Adhikaris meeting. RAF and police intervened, highlighting the fierce contest ahead of the crucial April 29 West Bengal Assembly poll.
Iran carried out an execution on Sunday. Amer Ramesh was convicted of belonging to the Jaish al-Adl group. He was also found guilty of attacking security forces in the southeast. The judiciary confirmed the execution took place early Sunday morning. This follows another execution on Saturday. Iran is a frequent user of the death penalty.
Kolkata customs officials seized marijuana worth approximately Rs 36 lakh. The contraband was found in a passenger's checked-in baggage arriving from Bangkok. Officials discovered vacuum-sealed packets of marijuana concealed within edible item pouches. This seizure highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking. A similar incident occurred recently in Ahmedabad.
Punjab Police has reportedly withdrawn the security cover of Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh, who recently joined the BJP along with six other AAP lawmakers. The move comes after AAP workers protested outside the residences of Singh and other defectors, labeling them as 'traitors'.
Keralas state-run KSRTC has been ordered to pay Rs 30,000 by the Malappuram District Consumer Commission for denying a seat to an ailing passenger and failing to drop him at his designated stop. The commission ruled it as deficiency in service. The passenger had informed the conductor about his medical condition but was forced to stand and alight elsewhere.
Panic erupted at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents Dinner. Gunshots were reported, causing Secret Service agents to secure President Donald Trump. The incident echoed the 1981 assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan at the same venue. Authorities are investigating how the suspect gained access. The hotel has a history of security concerns.
IPL 2026: A remarkable Saturday in T20 cricket saw record-breaking scores and successful chases. KL Rahul's 152* and a 15-year-old's century highlighted the day. Punjab Kings chased down 265, a new world record. Sunrisers Hyderabad also achieved a historic chase in Jaipur. The Orange Cap changed hands multiple times, showcasing the thrilling competition.
A crucial meeting is scheduled in Kolkata on Sunday. Election officials, police, and central forces will gather to review preparations for the second phase of the West Bengal assembly polls. This meeting, held three days before polling on April 29, aims to ensure smooth coordination among all agencies.
India is pursuing a multi-pronged approach to boost its exports to China. The nation is focusing on building its own industrial capabilities and reducing reliance on Chinese imports. This strategy aims to create resilient supply chains and enhance India's export capacity.
Jammu DIG Shridhar Patil emphasized strict vigilance along the Kathua border. He urged officers to maintain heightened alertness to thwart anti-national elements. Robust checking, increased patrolling, and coordination with security agencies are key. The meeting also reviewed crime investigation and the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, stressing swift action against offenders and drug smugglers to ensure public safety.
President Donald Trump has rejected a new peace proposal from Iran. He stated the offer was not good enough. Trump emphasized that Iran will not possess nuclear weapons. He mentioned that negotiations were halted due to extensive travel and the absence of direct talks with Iran's leader. The US will now communicate via telephone.
Delhi experienced a minimum temperature of 26.2C, 2.4C below average, with an orange alert issued for heatwave-like conditions by evening. Maximum temperatures are predicted to hit 44C. Air quality remains in the 'poor' category. Heatwave conditions are expected to persist until April 27, with a potential easing from April 28 due to wind shifts.
Marriott International is aggressively expanding in India with 200 hotels in its pipeline, aiming to open around 50 this year. Despite near-term international travel disruptions from the West Asia crisis, the hospitality giant remains committed to its long-term growth strategy in the country.
The Indian Air Force is seeking domestic industry, academia, and startups to develop collaborative drone-based surveillance radar systems under the Mehar Baba Competition. This initiative aims to create a flexible, mobile swarm radar system capable of detecting and tracking aerial targets in contested environments, offering enhanced survivability over traditional fixed radars.
Sohan Singh is now the Chief Executive Officer of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. This appointment supports the upcoming Char Dham Yatra. Health screenings are underway for pilgrims at Rishikesh. The state government is improving yatra routes for safety and convenience. Development projects aim to boost religious tourism. The annual pilgrimage has officially begun.
India and New Zealand will sign a significant trade agreement on April 27. This pact aims to boost bilateral trade and improve market access for Indian goods. Approximately 70 percent of Indian products will enter New Zealand duty-free. The agreement is expected to create new export opportunities for sectors like leather, handloom, and handicrafts.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will meet export councils and industry leaders on April 27. The meeting aims to boost India's outbound shipments. This comes after India and New Zealand sign a free trade pact. The discussion will also address the impact of the West Asia crisis on Indian exporters.
Iran has executed Amer Ramesh, a member of the Sunni militant group Jaish al-Adl. He was convicted of armed rebellion and involvement in bombings and ambushes targeting Iranian security forces. Ramesh was arrested in a counter-terrorism operation in southeastern Iran. Jaish al-Adl is active in Iran's Sistan-Baluchestan region.
Chile's Atacama Desert, a prime spot for stargazing, faces ongoing threats to its clear night skies. A proposed energy project near a major observatory was cancelled, but weak regulations could allow similar developments. Scientists warn that light pollution and dust can disrupt crucial astronomical research. Efforts are underway to strengthen protections for these vital dark sky zones.
The US central bank is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged at its policy meeting next week, as energy prices stay high and supply chains snarled due to war in the Middle East. We still have a very high level of uncertainty on what's happening in the Middle East, KPMG senior economist Kenneth Kim told AFP. Oil and gasoline prices remain elevated even if they have peaked, meaning here's certainly an energy shock that's still impacting both consumers and businesses, he said.
Tibetans living outside China are voting for their government-in-exile. This election holds great importance as they face a future without their spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. The Central Tibetan Administration, based in India, is a crucial institution for these exiles. Voters across 27 countries are participating.
Iran has presented a plan to Pakistan for a lasting end to the conflict with the United States in West Asia. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shared the proposal after meetings in Islamabad. He expressed doubt about the US commitment to diplomatic solutions. Previous talks hosted by Pakistan failed to achieve breakthroughs.
Garena Free Fire MAX offers players daily rewards through redeem codes, which are 12-character alphanumeric combinations released regularly. These codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once. Players can claim their free items by visiting the official redemption site and logging in with their game-linked accounts.
It was meant to be a glitzy night with President Donald Trump addressing journalists at a Washington ballroom. Agents swarmed around tables as plates crashed to the floor of the massive ballroom of the Washington Hilton, the very hotel where president Ronald Reagan survived an assassination attempt 45 years earlier.

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