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Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee has ended its political alliance with Raijor Dal. This decision follows alleged repeated violations of coalition ethics and conduct by Raijor Dal. The Congress cited malicious propaganda and character assassination against its party leaders. This move comes after public criticism of Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi's remarks. The alliance termination will not affect the Congress's commitment to public issues.
Devastating flash floods have created a booming disaster economy in Nepal. International journalists and aid workers have overwhelmed local infrastructure and services. Hotels and guesthouses are charging premium rates for basic shelter and accommodation. Transport costs have soared due to destroyed roads and bridges. Bilingual fixers and translators are earning significantly higher wages.
A woman with a confirmed train reservation was arrested and forced off the train at midnight after a stranger allegedly cancelled her ticket. A railway inquiry found that one digit in her booking mobile number had changed, sending the reservation message to another person. SHRC has now ordered Railways to pay her Rs 2 lakh.
India awaits US tariff advantage for trade deal finalization. The agreement was announced on February 3, 2026, reducing US tariffs on Indian goods. New Delhi seeks a clear tariff edge over competing manufacturing economies. India has protected its agriculture and dairy sectors under the agreement. Sectors like MSMEs and textiles will benefit from lower tariffs.
A delightful homemade spray can enliven your homes entryway with a soothing vanilla aroma. By blending water with vanilla essence, this mixture effectively masks undesirable odors that may linger at the threshold. This cost-effective solution not only rivals commercial air fresheners but is also simple to make, providing a quick fix for a more inviting and fresh atmosphere.
Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, a veteran of the Indian Air Force, takes charge as the first CEO of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust after a distinguished 43-year career in the IAF. His service included critical assignments, including the secure transportation of sensitive NEET-UG examination papers across the country. His experience in major operations, including Operation Sindoor, brings extensive leadership, strategic and crisis-management expertise to his new role at the Ram Mandi
Four children from the same family died within 10 days after falling ill following a visit to a waterfall near Gora Tila in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri. The health department has launched an investigation, while the exact cause of death remains unclear.
Pakistan cricket has initiated another significant overhaul in its team management. Mike Hesson now leads the Test side after Sarfaraz Ahmed's removal following a series loss. Seven players were released from the Test squad, and new replacements were named. This marks a pattern of frequent resets in Pakistan's cricketing structure. The board faces scrutiny over its approach to building stability.
Finland has initiated an extensive civil defence drill, simulating scenarios of cyberattacks and missile threats to bolster preparedness. By learning from Ukraines swift shelter mobilisation, Finland has drawn lessons from historical conflicts with the Soviet Union.
Olympic champion Tara Davis-Woodhall suffered a concussion after a car crash last week. She is now uncertain to compete in next week's World Athletics Ultimate Championship. The accident occurred while she was driving to a training session. Davis-Woodhall has not trained since the crash and is assessing her readiness. Her participation remains in doubt due to the unfortunate timing of the incident.
The Delhi High Court has clarified the responsibilities of political party agents. Booth level agents are only liable for verifying elector photographs on forms. This ruling came after a petition challenging personal undertaking requirements. The court stated verification is a statutory function for officers. This decision impacts the electoral roll revision process.
In a tragic incident in Jhansi, a 27-year-old woman was discovered dead, reportedly strangled by her husband. Medical examinations corroborated strangulation, revealing facial injuries. Her family accused him of previous physical abuse over trivial matters. Authorities believe he may have fled the scene, and investigations are underway to piece together the events preceding her death.
The child rights commission has advised removing sugar from Amrutham Nutri Mix. It suggested replacing sugar with a small quantity of jaggery for children. A high-level committee will scientifically determine the nutritional composition of products. Guidelines will be prepared on Nutri Mix quantity based on children's age.
India can unlock a wheat export opportunity of more than USD 1.5 billion as the gradual reopening of exports coincides with strong domestic production, comfortable stocks and efforts by major global buyers to diversify their sources, an ASSOCHAM report said.
Ongoing tensions involving Iran are pushing major oil importers to develop alternative supply routes, which increasingly bypass the supply hubs that previously dominated global energy trade.
AI prompts: Janmashtami is inspiring a wave of captivating AI photo trends across social media, with users transforming their everyday pictures into enchanting portraits inspired by Radha Rani. Using tailored AI prompts that incorporate traditional attire, intricate jewellery and spiritual backdrops, people can create unique and artistic festive portraits that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India.
President Trump plans extensive campaigning for Republicans in competitive races. He will travel to thirty-five key contests over the final month. Tele-townhalls will also be utilized to directly reach voters. Trump will personally campaign in Alaska and Texas Senate races. This push mirrors his intense focus during his presidential campaign.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has announced plans to build a Motor Sports City with a Formula racing track and youth training facilities, along with a separate Olympic City aimed at producing more gold medal winners for the state. The two projects are part of the government's larger push to build modern sports infrastructure and boost athlete development in Tamil Nadu.
Britain's NHS chair sees India as a future global healthcare model. India utilizes technology to expand healthcare access and reduce costs significantly. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and eSanjeevani platform showcase this digital infrastructure. Artificial intelligence aids disease detection and outbreak prediction across the nation. India's approach offers lessons for other countries seeking better healthcare delivery.
The Tamil Nadu government will sell onions at Rs 35 per kg through 8,739 ration shops. This initiative aims to control soaring onion prices for approximately 80 lakh family cardholders. The government has procured 1000 tonnes of onions to implement this subsidised sale program. Opposition parties have raised concerns about the rising prices of essential commodities.
Abhinandan varthaman retired: Former IAF Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a commercial pilot after leaving the Indian Air Force and obtaining the required NOC from the Defence Ministry. As per reports, he has obtained a NOC from the defence ministry for transition from fighter pilot to a commercial pilot.
YouTuber Nitish Rajput is in the spotlight as a strong contender for Bigg Boss 20! Renowned for his engaging political and historical videos, this potential transition from the digital realm has fans buzzing. With rumors swirling of other personalities joining the mix, all eyes are on the upcoming season, hosted by Salman Khan, promising a fresh and thrilling experience.
Bengaluru tops the charts for household income and savings among Indias major cities, while Chennai records the highest debt-to-income ratio, driven largely by housing demand. Delhi-NCR, meanwhile, emerges as the countrys biggest consumption hub, thanks to its large household base. Mumbai and Delhi-NCR also have the highest number of affluent households, while urban spending patterns are increasingly shifting towards housing, healthcare and education.
Vertika Shukla's rent increased significantly from fifteen thousand to one lakh eighty-one thousand rupees. She began her independent life at twenty-two with fifty thousand rupees monthly income. Shukla changed companies and pursued an MBA to build her career and confidence. These decisions gradually created financial independence and a better lifestyle. Her current home represents the ability to build a life on her own terms.
A G20 finance meeting saw US and Chinese officials disagree over trade language. The core dispute centered on the phrase on-market policies and practices. China viewed this term as an attack on its state-owned companies. This disagreement prevented the group from issuing a joint communique. The impasse highlights ongoing trade tensions between the two economic giants.
Farmers continue their protest at the Chandigarh border for a third day. They are demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price on crops. The cancellation of old water agreements is also a key demand. Unions are prepared for nationwide protests against a proposed Free Trade Agreement. Farmers seek loan waivers and a proper crop insurance scheme.
Dulquer Salmaan's highly anticipated film I'm Game has finally hit the cinemas after multiple delays. Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement, praising Dulquer's outstanding performance and the fresh storyline. Many are also delighted with the mix of fantasy elements and Jakes Bejoy's enchanting score. Read on!
German automakers face high labor costs and foreign competition. Calls are rising to extend the standard 35-hour work week to 40 hours. This change could potentially reduce costs for German auto plants. However, experts doubt it will solve structural issues or demand problems. Unions advocate for cooperation, citing past successful agreements for flexibility.
Global investors are reassessing India's economic prospects due to its strong growth. US investors see confidence boosted by India's infrastructure and reforms. More regulatory opening is needed to attract greater foreign direct investment. Policy predictability is crucial for attracting large, long-term capital commitments. India's ambition to become a developed economy shows strong momentum.
Tamil Nadu will introduce digital driving licences and vehicle registration certificates from September 15, letting new vehicle owners download their RC the same day and driving test candidates get their licence immediately, ending the current week-to-month wait for physical, chip-based cards sent by post.
The state's official resolution is set to urge the creation of a framework under which all judgments, decrees and judicial orders delivered by the High Court are made available in Tamil.
In a bid to promote a more pedestrian-friendly environment, New Delhi's Connaught Place may soon implement a vehicle-free Inner Circle. The NDMC chairman is currently inviting public feedback on the proposal, considering specific timings for both summer and winter seasons.
India's services sector saw a slight acceleration in August, though new business growth remained subdued. Overall activity stayed near its weakest point in over four years, despite increased hiring. Firms reported cautious optimism for future market conditions and demand improvements. Cost pressures nudged up modestly, with businesses passing on higher operating expenses. India's composite PMI held steady as manufacturing growth slowed significantly.
Bengaluru-based tech professional achieved a net worth of Rs 7 crore before turning 32. His strategy involved investing early and increasing his earnings through career moves, while also experimenting with side businesses and learning new skills to create additional income. Despite travelling extensively, he prioritised experiences over material possessions. After becoming a father, he also shifted his focus towards health and well-being alongside his financial goals.
Through tireless mission over forty nights in the breathtaking Kuocang Mountains of China, young enthusiast Hu Jiahao's passion shone brightly. His unwavering determination ultimately unveiled a new snake species, now known as Achalinus mirabilis. Researchers can now formally document this significant discovery thanks to Hu's remarkable fieldwork, a testament to the impact of youthful curiosity in science.
Psychology of spilling your coffee in front of others: Surprisingly, small public mistakes can boost your likability and create stronger human connections. This phenomenon, known as the pratfall effect, showcases how showing a bit of vulnerability can make you more relatable. It turns out that how you handle a slip-up is more important than the mistake itself. Accepting your imperfections opens the door to authentic conversations and potentially new friendships.
Economist Neelkanth Mishra defended India's GDP growth numbers against revision claims. He stated economic indicators point to a stronger economy with improving credit growth. Mishra highlighted personal vehicle dispatches and tax collections as real economic activity signs. He also noted robust construction indicators suggest strengthening private investment activity. However, weak real-wage growth indicates some economic slack remains.
The Ganga river's water level in Varanasi has now surpassed the warning mark. Officials are closely monitoring flood-affected areas along the Ganga and Varuna rivers. District administration and police reviewed arrangements for displaced people and relief camps. They ensured essential services and security measures were in place for residents. Authorities urged caution and prompt response to any emergencies in affected regions.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has reinstated Gursher Singh Sandhu as Deputy Superintendent of Police. His dismissal stemmed from a controversial interview with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. The court found the state could not justify dispensing with a regular departmental inquiry. Sandhu's reinstatement includes all consequential benefits from the dismissal order. The state retains the right to continue the pending departmental inquiry against him.
Air Marshal (Retd.) Jeetendra Mishra on being appointed as first Ram Temple Trust CEO
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has urged JP Nadda for action regarding a purification ritual. This ritual allegedly occurred after a public meeting addressed by Kharge in Haldwani. Kharge noted that no First Information Report has been registered against the involved individuals and organisations. He stated the issue affects the sentiments of many people facing similar realities daily.

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