The Economic Times

Asaduddin Owaisi has appealed to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He seeks the rescue of 16 Indian nationals. These individuals were promised jobs in Thailand. They are now enslaved on the Myanmar-Thailand border. Three of the victims are from Hyderabad. They face forced labor and physical punishment. Their passports and phones are confiscated. Medical facilities are denied.

Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz sees a chance for nations favoring regulations to unite against protectionism. This comes as India and the European Union prepare to sign a major free trade agreement. The deal, called 'the mother of all deals', will create a market for two billion people. European leaders will visit India for the Republic Day celebrations and summit talks.

Apple co-founder Steve Jobs' enduring mantra, 'Stay hungry, stay foolish,' champions relentless curiosity and bold risk-taking. This philosophy, born from his own journey of innovation, urges individuals to embrace learning, challenge norms, and pursue passions fearlessly. It's a powerful call to action for personal growth and creative breakthroughs.

As todays Word of the Day, sesquipedalian reminds us that language is elastic. It can be stretched, compressed, embellished or stripped bare.

Ten soldiers died and eleven were injured when an Army vehicle fell into a gorge in Doda district. The accident occurred on the Bhaderwah-Chamba interstate road. A joint rescue operation was launched immediately. Injured soldiers were airlifted for specialized treatment. Officials confirmed the fatalities and injuries. Leaders expressed grief and condolences to the families.

Eight Maoists, including a high-value target with a Rs 1 crore bounty, were eliminated in a fierce gunfight with security forces in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district. The intense exchange of fire occurred in the Saranda forest's Kumdi area. Patiram Majhi, also known as Anal Da, was among those killed.

After celebrating her sisters wedding and indulging in all the shaadi treats, Kriti Sanon is officially back to her fitness grind.

A Telangana government officer, Arramada Venkat Reddy, is under investigation for allegedly amassing assets worth over Rs 7 crore, disproportionate to his known income. The Anti-Corruption Bureau seized properties including houses, plots, and agricultural land, along with significant movable assets like cash and vehicles. The market value of these assets is estimated to exceed Rs 50 crore.

Rahul Gandhi asserted the Modi government's intent to dismantle MGNREGA mirrors the repealed farm laws. He urged rural workers to unite, drawing parallels with farmers' successful protest. Gandhi stated that collective action can force the government to reinstate MGNREGA in its original rights-based form. The Congress leader highlighted concerns over centralized control and reduced worker wages.

Jack Nicholson, a celebrated actor known for iconic roles, embodies a philosophy of continuous learning. His quote, 'The minute that you're not learning I believe you're dead,' emphasizes that lifelong curiosity and engagement with new ideas are essential for intellectual and emotional vitality, preventing stagnation and fostering adaptability throughout life.

TN election news: The Election Commission of India has allocated symbols to the political parties of actors Vijay and Kamal Hassan. Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam will use the whistle symbol. Kamal Hassan's Makkal Needhi Maiam received the battery torch symbol. Both parties are preparing to contest the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. They aim to challenge the ruling DMK party.

India's 2026 T20 World Cup campaign is framed as a battle against history, aiming to break records like defending a title, winning as hosts, and achieving a third championship. Led by Rohit Sharma, the team confronts the challenge of overcoming unprecedented feats, with a campaign film emphasizing belief over statistics. This initiative highlights India's ambition to rewrite the record books.

Skipper Rohit Sharma lauded young batter Tilak Varma for his excellent attitude and temperament. Sharma also humorously advised spinner Kuldeep Yadav to focus on bowling. These insights come as India prepares for the T20 World Cup. Varma's batting prowess and Yadav's bowling skills are key for India's campaign. The team aims for a successful title defense.

A 13-year-old boy from Ghaziabad impressed Shark Tank India Season 5 with his AI healthcare startup, Neurapexai. Jaiwardhan Tyagi secured Rs 60 lakh funding from investor Aman Gupta. While some Sharks noted the idea was early-stage, the pitch was hailed as inspiring. Ritesh Agarwal offered mentorship. Neurapexai analyzes medical data to generate reports.

Quote of the day: More than two thousand years after Ovids lifetime, his words continue to illuminate the human condition, proof that while societies change, the fundamentals of love and connection remain strikingly constant.

The latest OTT releases this week (Jan 19-25) feature Dhanushs Tere Ishk Mein on Netflix and Viduthalai Part 2 on Prime Video. From Sudeeps Mark to the comedy Mastiii 4 on ZEE5 and Space Gen: Chandrayaan, this is your definitive guide to new OTT movies and series streaming now.

The Indian Air Force will feature the Sindoor formation, comprising Rafale, Su-30, MiG-29, and Jaguar jets, at the 2026 Republic Day parade, commemorating a swift response to a terror attack. Concurrently, Delhi Police will enhance security with AI-enabled smart glasses and facial recognition systems for improved threat detection along the parade route.

India Union Budget 2026: India has a strategic opportunity in Budget to solidify its position as a global technology leader. By focusing on clear AI governance, robust data infrastructure, and sustained innovation funding, the nation can accelerate responsible digital transformation and compound economic value for businesses and citizens.

The Indian Air Force has released the AFCAT 1 Admit Card 2026 for Group 'A' Gazetted Officer posts. The online examination is scheduled for January 31, 2026, with candidates needing to download their admit cards from afcat.cdac.in. The exam will cover General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning, with a duration of two hours.

Security agencies are on high alert nationwide. Coded messages '26-26' suggest a possible threat linked to Republic Day 2026. Intelligence points to Pakistan-based terror groups planning coordinated strikes. A Kashmiri group has also issued threats. These warnings are being treated as a significant retaliatory move.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon had blunt feedback for what he called the Davos elite, and he is supposedly not happy with the job they are doing. The billionaire also commented on US President Donald Trump's proposal to cap credit card costs and called it an 'economic disaster'. He also said that the rollout of AI may need to be slowed to save society.

Karnataka BJP leaders B Y Vijayendra and R Ashoka defended Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot's decision to deviate from the government's prepared speech. They accused the ruling Congress of misusing the assembly and disrespecting the Governor and the Constitution. The BJP leaders demanded action against Congress MLAs and MLCs for their alleged misconduct during the Governor's address.

Former Union Minister Smriti Irani has secured USD 2 million in just two days for a USD 100 million fund aimed at supporting one lakh women-owned small businesses in India. This initiative, part of the Alliance for Global Good, also facilitated a USD 40 million investment in women's wellness based on Ayurvedic practices.

Mumbai police's Economic Offences Wing has filed a closure report in a case against Hemang Shah. The complaint was lodged by his elder brother, Mehul Jadavji Shah, alleging financial misappropriations. The police investigation concluded the complaint was neither true nor false. The court will hear the matter on April 9, 2026. The dispute involves the Shah family's business empire.

Families of 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims voiced anguish after former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar's acquittal in a Delhi court. Despite this, Kumar remains imprisoned for other convictions. Decades of grief persist for those who lost loved ones. They vow to continue their pursuit of justice through further appeals, highlighting the enduring pain and the long wait for closure.

Abhishek Sharmas traditional wardrobe proves that understated details can make a powerful statement. From pastel kurtas to mirror-work classics, these six looks redefine effortless festive dressing.

Aramco's chief Amin Nasser believes oil glut forecasts are overstated. He points to robust demand and falling global oil reserves. This contrasts with analyst predictions of a 2026 supply surplus. Production increases from the United States, OPEC+ and other nations are expected to drive this surplus. Oil prices have remained above $60 per barrel for most of 2025.

An Indian woman's story of being abandoned by her husband for a 3 crore property, leaving her to raise their son alone on a meager salary, has gone viral. Facing immense financial and emotional hardship, she eventually rebuilt her life overseas, now owning a home worth the same amount.

The Department of Posts aims for a significant 30% revenue growth to Rs 17,546 crore in FY26, a substantial jump from the modest 3% increase seen in FY25. Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted this ambitious target, emphasizing the department's goal to transition from a cost center to a profit center within the next 4-5 years.

Assistant Commandant Simran Bala makes history by leading an all-male contingent for the Central Reserve Police Force at the Republic Day parade. This appointment marks a significant milestone for the force. Bala, selected through a rigorous process, will command over 140 male personnel. Her leadership reflects a changing norm in uniformed services, with opportunities increasingly based on merit.

Planning a quick escape from Mumbai? These scenic destinations are perfect for a long weekend, offering hills, nature, and calm without long travel hours or complicated itineraries.

West Indies aim to salvage pride in the final T20I against Afghanistan in Dubai after losing the series. Afghanistan secured victory with a strong batting performance and Mujeeb Ur Rahman's impressive four-wicket haul, including a hat-trick. The match is scheduled for Thursday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Three people were killed and one injured in a shooting in Lake Cargelligo, New South Wales. Police have urged residents to stay indoors as the shooter or shooters remain at large. The incident occurred on Australia's National Day of Mourning.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has accused Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot of constitutional violation. The Governor reportedly read his own speech instead of the one prepared by the state government. This action has led to strong criticism from the Chief Minister. The government is considering its next steps, including potential legal action.

Nana Patekar, known for his roles in Welcome and Ab Tak Chhappan, walked out of the trailer and poster launch of O Romeo in anger and frustration after he was made to wait for an hour. Nana Patekar plays a key role in Shahid Kapoor and Tripti Dimri starrer O Romeo. Following the incident, the director of the movie Vishal Bhardwaj called him a 'bully'.

A lottery by the Maharashtra Urban Development Department has determined Mumbai's next mayor will be a woman from the general category. This decision faced opposition from former mayor Kishori Pednekar, who alleged rule changes and argued for an OBC or ST candidate, citing recent general category mayors.

Madhya Pradesh is being presented as a prime investment hub in India at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav highlighted the state's progressive policies and efficient working style, which have generated significant interest among international investors. The state is actively working to attract global capital, create employment opportunities for its youth, and leverage its resources effectively.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge claims the government's move to repeal MGNREGA is an attempt to remove Mahatma Gandhi's name from public memory. He asserted that the party will strongly raise this issue during Parliament's upcoming Budget session. Workers participated in a convention, symbolically planting soil from their work sites. The Congress has launched a campaign demanding the restoration of MGNREGA.

A row erupted after Nobel Peace Prize winner and Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said that Cuba and Nicaragua will be freed just like Venezuela. Venezuela was raided by the US military recently, in which their leader, Nicolas Maduro, and his wife were captured. The internet was quick to call out Maria Corina Machado for her remarks with users asking how did she win Nobel Prize.

Denmark has urged for constructive discussions regarding Greenland. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that while political aspects can be negotiated, Danish sovereignty is not up for debate. These remarks follow reports of US President Donald Trump's past consideration of acquiring Greenland. Denmark emphasizes that any dialogue must respect its territorial integrity, particularly concerning Arctic security.

Dhar district is on high alert as Basant Panchami coincides with Friday prayers at the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque. Thousands of police personnel are deployed to ensure peace. Both Hindu and Muslim communities are set to exercise their religious rights. The administration is working to uphold ASI orders and maintain communal harmony. Security measures include CCTV surveillance and drone monitoring.

As shared by Heena Trivedi, starting your day with a high-protein breakfast helps improve fat loss, energy levels, metabolism, and hormonal balance especially for women.

President Trump claimed the US used a secret, exclusive sonic weapon to capture Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro. He stated the US possesses unknown advanced weaponry, raising concerns about their power. Russia has requested more clarity from the US regarding this alleged sonic device.

The World Economic Forum in Davos this year is marked by an unusually large and diverse global presence, making it feel more like a convergence of world forums than a single conference. The US has expanded its visibility with two USA Houses, while G20 nations have a strong footprint, led by India with prominent sessions and a confident global pitch.

President Donald Trump has invited Vladimir Putin to a new 'Board of Peace'. Trump also declared Russia a threat to Greenland, which America wants. Russia sees these actions as weakening NATO. The proposed board aims to achieve peace and will have influential members. Membership reportedly costs one billion dollars. US allies are concerned about this new initiative.