The Economic Times

The CBSE has issued an advisory, cautioning students, parents, and media against misinformation surrounding QR codes on question papers. CBSE has dismissed viral claims linking QR codes on Class 12 exam papers to internet personality Orry and singer Rick Astley, deeming them misleading and factually incorrect and said QR codes are for internal security.

Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Tata Group, has issued a crucial advisory to senior executives regarding an increasingly volatile business landscape. The ongoing turmoil in West Asia is wreaking havoc on supply chains and pushing costs higher. Organizations must gird themselves for a potential slowdown in demand and the likelihood of project delays.

French President Emmanuel Macron and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met in Seoul. They pledged to work together to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This vital waterway is crucial for global oil transport. Their cooperation aims to ease economic worries stemming from Middle East conflict. The leaders also agreed to boost collaboration in technology and energy sectors.

India begins Census 2027 on April 1, 2026. This nationwide count is the first in 16 years and will be fully digital, using smartphones and online portals. For the first time since 1931, caste will be comprehensively enumerated. The census aims for faster data delivery and improved policy-making. This exercise will also generate significant employment opportunities across the country.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned of a swift and decisive response to any Indian attack, countering India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's threats. Asif accused India of strategic anxiety ahead of the Pahalgam attack anniversary, stating any future confrontation would see a more forceful Pakistani retaliation.

Former High Commissioner of India To Bangladesh, Veena Sikri on Friday said that Trump's recent address to the nation on the ongoing conflict with Iran underscores that the US President wants to keep all options open, even as he reiterated familiar talking points on the war and threats against Tehran since the beginning of the conflict.

India's Navy is set to commission its nuclear submarine INS Aridhaman. This marks a significant step in strengthening India's nuclear triad. The frigate INS Taragiri will also be inducted. Taragiri embodies the 'Make in India' spirit with over 75 percent indigenous content. These inductions enhance India's maritime power and combat readiness.

Tesla is set to significantly expand its presence in Japan. The electric vehicle maker plans to open at least 60 stores and double its service centres. This move aims to make Tesla Japan's top imported car brand as early as next year. The company is also introducing a new six-seater Model Y L to attract families.

A case is registered against a BJP councillor, her daughter, and brother. They allegedly blocked UDF candidate Rammesh Pisharody's campaign in Palakka. The incident occurred on April 1. Pisharody was prevented from entering a BJP stronghold. The Chief Minister condemned the act. The BJP leader stated Pisharody was stopped due to alleged anti-women remarks.

Fakhar Zaman's appeal against his two-match ban for ball-tampering has been rejected. A Pakistan Super League technical committee upheld the ban. Zaman will miss two crucial matches for Lahore Qalandars. The ban stems from an incident during a match where the ball's condition was allegedly altered. This decision impacts the team's upcoming games.

Bahrain has significantly weakened a UN resolution on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, removing authorization for offensive military action. The revised draft now permits only defensive measures to ensure safe passage, following opposition from China and Russia. The Security Council vote is now expected Saturday, with diplomats aiming to avoid a veto.

AIMIM leader Mofakkerul Islam has been arrested for allegedly leading a protest in Malda where seven Special Intensive Revision officers were held captive for over nine hours. Mofakkerul Islam is an advocate and he was arrested while attempting to flee the state. The protesters say they are agitating against their names being removed from the voter list despite having all proper documents. The Election Commission has handed the probe to the NIA.

Around 40 nations are discussing joint action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively shut down, impacting global economic security. Britain is leading efforts to form a coalition, focusing on diplomatic and military options to ensure safe passage for shipping and reduce soaring energy prices.

Telangana authorities have intensified their crackdown on unsafe food, seizing over 146 kg of spoiled meat statewide and issuing numerous hygiene and licensing violation notices. In Hyderabad, a raid uncovered 352 kg of spoiled chicken, leading to an arrest and highlighting critical lapses in food safety standards.

Donald Trump on strait of Hormuz: America's oil exports are surging, filling global supply gaps. The US now produces more oil than it imports from the Persian Gulf. However, the Strait of Hormuz remains vital for global energy flows. Disruptions there still impact international markets and indirectly affect the US economy. America's role has shifted to a global energy stabilizer.

Myanmar'tally showed, with the ex-military commander set to maintain his rule in a civilian guise after snatching power by force five years ago. Min Aung Hlaing -- who swept aside democracy in 2021, detaining elected figurehead Aung San Suu Kyi and dissolving her party -- was anointed by pro-military MPs installed in a poll overseen by the junta he leads.

The India-UN Development Partnership Fund board met in New York. They reviewed the fund's operations and ongoing projects. Discussions also covered the fund's future scope. The fund promotes shared prosperity in the global South. It supports developing countries' initiatives for sustainable development. The Commonwealth Window specifically aids Commonwealth nations.

Iran on Friday warned the UN Security Council against any provocative action ahead of a vote on a draft resolution mandating a force to protect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Any provocative action by the aggressors and their supporters, including in the UN Security Council regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, will only complicate the situation, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. bur-jsa/yad

Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy attributes his bowling comeback to a secret mentor. He delivered a match-winning performance against Kolkata Knight Riders. Reddy's all-round display included crucial runs and wickets. He highlighted adapting to the pitch and using his slower ball effectively. The team's bowling attack is proving effective despite perceptions.

Oracle India layoffs: US tech giant Oracle has been facing backlash online for filing thousands of foreign workers' petitions at a time when it laid off approximately 30,000 employees. The tech company filed for more than 3,000 petitions to employ H-1B workers in 2025 and 2026, and this has been criticised by American workers.

Defence exports have surged to an all-time high of Rs 38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, a 62.7% increase driven by both public and private sectors. This achievement underscores growing global confidence in India's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, with exports now reaching over 80 countries.

West Bengal Police apprehended advocate Mofakkarul Islam at Bagdogra airport. He is accused of orchestrating the gherao of seven judicial officers in Malda. Islam was attempting to flee the country. This arrest brings the total number of those detained to 33. The incident occurred on Wednesday night.

Recent satellite imagery reveals significant destruction to port infrastructure on Qeshm Island, Iran, following coordinated strikes by the US and Israel. Additionally, a critical bridge in Karaj has suffered damage, leading to civilian loss of life.

A new world order is emerging from the West Asia conflict. The United Nations Charter's authority has weakened. Pakistan's mediation efforts failed. The core dispute lies between America and Iran. India is positioned to help shape this new global landscape. No single nation can dictate the future alone. This period of chaos will lead to significant change.

Middle East war: Iran reports shooting down a US F-35 fighter jet over its territory. This comes as Iran also launched missiles towards Israel. The US Central Command has not yet confirmed the F-35 incident. Earlier, three US F-15E aircraft were downed in Kuwait due to friendly fire during Operation Epic Fury. The conflict between the US and Iran is ongoing.

The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran has severely strained NATO, with President Trump threatening withdrawal over European navies' refusal to open the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts and diplomats believe the alliance is at its weakest point, fraying the core mutual defense agreement and prompting European nations to consider defense without U.S. involvement.

Police have taken the husband of a 26-year-old software engineer who was found hanging from a ceiling fan in the hall of her flat in Hyderabad. Police said the alleged harassment by her husband was for more dowry. The accused even pressured her family to invest in his start-up business. The two got married in February in Patna in the presence of their family members.

Kharg Island, a strategically vital Persian Gulf location, has repeatedly attracted global powers due to its deep waters and role in Iran's oil exports. Despite attempts by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British to establish control over centuries, local resistance and shifting alliances ensured the island remained under local governance, a pattern continuing into modern geopolitical tensions.

The United States has repatriated a Chinese national suspected of drug smuggling and trafficking to China. This marks a significant development in bilateral cooperation on narcotics control. The handover occurred based on information provided by China's anti-drug authorities. This action precedes a planned visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to China, highlighting ongoing efforts to address the fentanyl crisis.

With wedding season in full swing, Indian health clinics are rolling out specialized weight-loss packages that include popular drugs such as Mounjaro and Wegovy. This emerging trend underscores the immense societal pressure to achieve a perfect look in a short span of time.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's Abhishek Sharma faced a penalty. He was fined 25 percent of his match fees and received one demerit point. This action followed a breach of the IPL Code of Conduct during the match against Kolkata Knight Riders. Sharma admitted to the offense. He expressed dissent over a TV umpire's decision regarding a catch.

A key agency has approved President Donald Trump's White House ballroom plan. This comes despite a judge ordering a halt to construction. The National Capital Planning Commission voted to allow the plan to move forward. The project faces a legal fight and could be stalled. Trump aims to complete the ballroom before his term ends in 2029.

Japan's planned acquisition of hundreds of Tomahawk missiles from the United States is encountering delays. Washington has informed Tokyo that deliveries for its order of approximately 400 missiles, scheduled by March 2028, will be disrupted. This situation arises as inventories are strained due to the ongoing conflict between America and Israel with Iran.

China is set to upgrade some older petrochemical plants while shutting down others by 2029. This move aims to improve the supply-demand balance in the petrochemical sector. Local governments have compiled lists of facilities for this purpose. Annual surveys will identify new outdated plants. The nation plans to reduce oil refining capacity.

President Donald Trump's 2027 budget prioritizes military spending, proposing a substantial boost for the Pentagon. This plan signals a shift away from domestic programs like day care and healthcare. The budget arrives as Congress grapples with current-year spending and a prolonged government shutdown. Lawmakers will debate these priorities as they craft their own spending bills.

Assam Elections: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren predicted a shift in the tea tribe-Adivasi vote towards Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. He campaigned for Digboi candidate Bharat Nayak. Soren criticized the BJP government for neglecting tea garden communities. He promised efforts to enhance wages and improve facilities for tea workers if his party's candidate is elected.

Discover the 'selenophile,' an individual captivated by the moon's ethereal beauty and tranquil glow. This term, rooted in Greek, describes those who find peace and inspiration under lunar light. In Canada, the vast, clear nights amplify this connection, painting serene, cinematic scenes. Explore related terms like 'noctivagant' and 'astrophile' to deepen your understanding of this celestial fascination.

Christina Marie Plante: A 13-year-old Arizona girl, Christina Marie Plante, who vanished in 1994 while walking to a horse stable, has been found alive after more than three decades. The Gila County Sheriff's Office announced the resolution of the decades-old missing person case, crediting advances in technology for generating new leads.

Tiger Woods was arrested on DUI charges in Florida after crashing his SUV, with bodycam footage showing him appearing disoriented and failing a sobriety test. He told officers he had been using prescription medication, including hydrocodone, and not alcohol.

Iran assures India its vessels are safe amid Strait of Hormuz tensions, asserting only Iran and Oman will determine its future. India has resumed LPG imports from Iran, highlighting renewed energy engagement. The UN Security Council is set to vote on a resolution to protect shipping, facing opposition from China.

Petrol, Diesel price today: Despite the Brent crude hovering around $ 110 per barrel due to the ongoing Middle East war, the petrol and diesel prices have remained unchanged in major Indian cities. The petrol price in Delhi is Rs 94.77 per litre and that of diesel is Rs 87.67 per litre.

Iran war: The writer reflects on wartime destruction in London to highlight concerns about ongoing strikes in Iran, especially the historic city of Isfahan. Iran has many protected heritage sites, but these remain vulnerable during conflict.

As part of these efforts, traffic authorities are making temporary adjustments such as closing and reopening specific turns and intersections. During a recent experiment on MA Road, officials temporarily shut a turn near the mechanised parking facility to observe whether redirecting movement towards another point would improve traffic behaviour.

New fossils discovered in Chinas Yunnan province show that complex animal life began millions of years earlier than previously thought, during the late Ediacaran period around 539 million years ago.

Pakistan petrol, diesel prices: The petrol price in cash-strapped Pakistan has increased to PKR 458.40 rupees per litre and diesel has breached the 500 mark. This comes when Pakistan has claimed to be a mediator in the US-Iran war. The increase in fuel prices is expected to burn the pockets of Pakistanis, already facing high inflation and cost of living.

Shivang Kumar's father: Shivang Kumar, a 23-year-old spinner from Moradabad, made his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad after a journey marked by his father's unconventional coaching and a five-month break from the sport. His impressive domestic performances, including a five-wicket haul, ultimately secured him a spot in the league.

The Election Commission has completed verification for over 52 lakh voters in West Bengal. Work continues for nearly 8 lakh more applicants. The entire adjudication process is expected to finish by April 7. This is crucial as the first phase of elections begins on April 23. Security measures are being enhanced for judicial officers after a recent incident.

Intelligence assessments cited by CNN say Iran still retains a large share of its missile and drone capabilities despite weeks of US-Israeli strikes, contradicting claims by Donald Trump that its programme was destroyed.

A teenager, Connor James Tobin, is facing more than 50 charges. He allegedly brought a loaded gun to an Eastern Passage restaurant. Police later seized more weapons, including a handgun with a prohibited magazine, long guns, and body armour. This incident was related to intimate partner violence. Tobin remains in custody.