The Economic Times

A rare hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship has drawn global attention after multiple infections and three reported deaths prompted international health monitoring.Despite growing concern online, health experts and WHO officials continue stressing that the outbreak is very different from COVID-19 and poses a low risk to the wider public.

A woman's viral video highlights the emotional isolation of high-rise apartment living, contrasting the perceived glamour with a lack of social interaction and community. She described feeling like her building is a jail, missing the neighbourly connections and shared outdoor spaces of traditional neighbourhoods. Social media users widely related to her sentiments, echoing the loneliness experienced in modern urban dwellings.

Wordle enthusiasts can find today's puzzle, May 8, 2026, a bit challenging due to its unusual starting letter, though astronomy buffs might have an edge. The game, a daily five-letter word guessing challenge, continues its reign as a popular NYT Games offering.

India's foreign exchange reserves saw a significant drop of USD 7.794 billion, reaching USD 690.693 billion by May 1. This follows a previous decline. The reserves had previously hit a record high in February. The fall was primarily driven by a decrease in foreign currency assets and a sharp drop in gold reserves.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Operation Sindoor for showcasing India's military prowess. He urged commanders to stay prepared for evolving security threats. The minister stressed the need for advanced technologies like AI and secure networks. Future conflicts will involve hybrid warfare across multiple domains. Singh highlighted the importance of jointness and innovative thinking for military success.

Suvendu Adhikari has been formally chosen as the leader of the BJP's legislative wing in West Bengal, paving the way for him to become the state's first BJP Chief Minister. Adhikari's rise is attributed to his electoral victories against Mamata Banerjee and his prominent role in the BJP's state expansion.

Eliminate lower back pain with six simple, effective movements designed for 2026. From the unconventional Dead Bug to the reliable Glute Bridge, these exercises focus on core stability and spinal lubrication. By incorporating these daily, you strengthen your bodys foundation and release the tension that causes chronic back discomfort.

U.S. and Iranian forces clashed in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, with both sides accusing the other of breaching a ceasefire. Despite the flare-up and renewed attacks on the UAE, President Trump stated diplomacy was still on track and a ceasefire was holding, while oil prices surged above $100.

Indias labour force is undergoing structural transformation with the share of agriculture in the workforce witnessing a modest 23% decline over a 37-year period while large enterprises( with more than 20 workers) now employing 13.7% of the workforce, significantly higher than 10.8% in 2024 on the back of governments renewed push on manufacturing, the report, released on Friday, said.

Tamil Nadu BJP has accepted the election results. The party chief Nainar Nagenthran stated they respect the people's mandate. BJP will not try to form the new government. They will also not vote for any party in the government formation process. The party won only one seat in the elections. BJP remains committed to the welfare of Tamil Nadu's people.

Lionel Messi's football journey started at Abanderado Grandoli in Rosario. His grandmother insisted he play, and his talent quickly shone. He was compared to Maradona. From humble beginnings, Messi rose to global fame. His childhood club cherishes his legacy. Young players at Grandoli are inspired by his success. Argentina anticipates his potential final World Cup appearance.

Stop wasting brown fruit with these six easy ways to keep cut apples fresh and white. From the Honey Shield and Rubber Band Puzzle to simple kitchen staples like salt and lemon, this story provides practical, non-technical solutions for perfectly crisp apples in every lunchbox or snack bowl.

Suvendu Adhikari, a key figure in the Trinamool Congress's rise, has been elected BJP Legislative Party leader in West Bengal. He previously defeated Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee twice, first in Nandigram and then in Bhabanipur. Adhikari's political journey began with the Congress before joining the TMC, where he played a crucial role in the 2007 Nandigram agitation.

A cruise ship in the South Atlantic is experiencing a severe health emergency with confirmed hantavirus infections and multiple fatalities. The vessel, which visited Antarctica and remote islands, saw passengers develop flu-like symptoms that rapidly progressed to dangerous respiratory complications. A multinational health response is underway.

Tensions are high as Russia prepares for Victory Day celebrations amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. A unilateral ceasefire quickly collapsed, with both sides blaming each other for continued fighting. Concerns over security and domestic discontent are overshadowing the traditional Red Square festivities, which will notably lack military hardware this year.

The BJP's political ascent in eastern India, mirroring Assam's success with Himanta Biswa Sarma, sees Suvendu Adhikari named West Bengal's next Chief Minister. Both leaders, former insiders of rival parties, became key BJP assets, demonstrating a strategy of leveraging influential defectors to penetrate entrenched regional politics.

blouissant is a French word meaning dazzling or stunning, often used for beauty so striking it feels overwhelming. This French Word of the Day explores its luminous origins, cultural nuance, and why it remains a favourite expression in art, fashion, and everyday admiration.

Taiwan's parliament approved a $25 billion defence spending bill on Friday that opposition lawmakers say will be used for US weapons, following months of political wrangling. The Kuomintang (KMT), which favours closer ties with China, and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) announced on Friday they would be willing to raise their original spending proposal to a maximum NT$780 billion (nearly $25 billion) for US arms only.

Patients on West Bengal's Swasthya Sathi health scheme face admission hurdles at Kolkata's private hospitals. Uncertainty surrounds the scheme's continuation under the new government. Some hospitals have stopped admissions, while others limit them to emergencies. Financial concerns and low reimbursement rates are cited. Hospitals await official directives on the scheme's future.

An Israeli man named Tamal is captivating social media with his Sanatan Dharma lifestyle in India. He shares his daily vegetarian food rituals and spiritual practices. Tamal moved to India in 2009 and studied at a gurukul for 12 years. His videos showcase his devotion and have garnered praise online.

Tired of mosquito bites and chemical repellents? Burnt coffee powder offers a simple, natural, and effective way to keep mosquitoes away. This easy home remedy uses the strong aroma of burnt coffee to repel mosquitoes without any harsh chemicals. Perfect for homes with kids and pets.

Hollywood star Liam Neeson observed that increased success brings more people offering freebies, highlighting the irony of those with resources receiving further advantages. This quote resonates widely, reflecting how achievement attracts attention and opportunities, prompting a reminder to stay grounded and value character over perks.

West Bengal is set for a new political era. The Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government, ending nearly two decades of Trinamool Congress rule. Suvendu Adhikari has been chosen as the Chief Minister-designate. The swearing-in ceremony is planned for May 9. This marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape.

Delhi Police crime branch busted an interstate counterfeit medicine racket, arresting four individuals. The network allegedly sourced government-supplied drugs from Uttar Pradesh and other states, repackaging them for distribution in Delhi-NCR and northeastern India. Investigations revealed a sophisticated supply chain and a potential hawala angle.

The DMK has requested a change in its Lok Sabha seating. This comes after their alliance with the Congress ended. DMK leader Kanimozhi Karunanidhi wrote to the Lok Sabha Speaker. She stated it is not appropriate for DMK MPs to sit with Congress members. The move follows the Congress supporting TVK in government formation in Tamil Nadu.

TVK crosses majority mark in TN: TVK has achieved the crucial majority of 118 seats in the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly after securing support from Congress, VCK, CPI and CPM. With 107 seats of its own, the party crossed the threshold, paving the way for actor-turned-politician Vijay to form the next government and end the long-standing Dravidian duopoly.

Delhi reported the highest number of suicides in 2024 with 2,905 cases, though this marks a decline from previous years. Family-related issues were the leading cause, with married individuals forming the largest victim group. Most suicides were among men and those earning less than Rs 1 lakh annually.

Home-cooked vegetarian and non-vegetarian thali costs rose 2% year-on-year in April, primarily due to increased prices of tomatoes, vegetable oil, and LPG. While onion and potato prices fell, contributing to a partial offset, broiler prices also saw a 2% increase for non-veg thalis.

Quote of the day by Henry Ford: Henry Ford remains one of the most searched business icons in modern history. More than 100 years after launching the Ford Model T, his ideas on success, mindset, leadership, and innovation still dominate motivational quotes, business education, and self-growth discussions worldwide. Henry Ford revolutionized the automobile industry with mass production and the moving assembly line. He made cars affordable for ordinary people and changed global transportation fore

A Delhi court has ruled that an educated woman cannot be denied financial support. The court upheld an order for a man to pay interim maintenance to his estranged wife and daughter. The husband's appeal claiming unemployment was rejected. The court emphasized that an able-bodied man cannot evade his responsibility. Interim maintenance ensures dignity for dependents during legal proceedings.

Claude down and when will AI chatbot be back up? Users reported a Claude not working error on May 8, 2026 after elevated errors affected multiple Claude models. The issue started at 09:49 UTC and a fix rollout began at 10:22 UTC. The remaining impact affected Claude Opus 4.1 and Fast Mode for Claude Opus 4.6. Many users asked: Claude down? When will AI chatbot be back up? Here is the full explainer.

The Delhi High Court on Friday said it would appoint amici curiae to represent AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak in the CBI's plea challenging their discharge in the Delhi excise policy case, after noting that the three respondents were not appearing in the proceedings.

Quote of the Day: Coco Chanel's timeless quote, In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different, champions individuality and self-confidence. The fashion icon's words encourage embracing unique qualities, reminding us that difference is a strength that fosters memorability and authentic self-expression. This sentiment resonates deeply, inspiring people to value their distinctiveness and stand out.

India is leading BRICS efforts to boost small businesses. The focus is on better access to finance and using fintech for credit. BRICS nations are sharing ideas to overcome challenges. This collaboration aims to build stronger, globally competitive MSME sectors across member countries. The initiative supports economic growth and job creation.

IIT Madras is offering JEE Main qualifiers an opportunity to pursue a flexible online BS degree in fields like AI and data science alongside their regular engineering studies. This initiative aims to make top-quality IIT education more accessible and equip students with skills for future job markets without requiring them to leave their current colleges.

During an Enforcement Directorate raid in Mohali, individuals in a luxury high-rise threw bags of cash from a ninth-floor window. The incident occurred as the ED investigated influential builders for alleged fraudulent land use license procurement and investor cheating. Authorities seized one bag containing approximately Rs 21 lakh in cash.

Former Calcutta High Court Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam has resigned from a special tribunal. This tribunal was established to hear appeals concerning names removed from electoral rolls. Justice Sivagnanam was one of 19 former judges appointed by the Election Commission. His significant orders included reinstating a Congress candidate's name. This candidate later won an election from Farakka.

Chinese proverb of the day shares a timeless message about happiness and kindness. The saying explains how short pleasures fade but helping others creates lasting peace. The proverb meaning, relevance and teachings highlight altruism, human nature, joy, and service. It shows how generosity improves well-being, strengthens community, and creates lasting fulfillment. The message connects with modern research about kindness, empathy, and long-term life satisfaction.

CPI leader D Raja voiced concern over the declining electoral power of Left parties. He expressed hope for their future revival as a significant political force. Raja also discussed the political landscape in Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the need to support the largest party.

TVK chief Vijay is scheduled to meet TN Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Friday evening to discuss government formation. This marks his third meeting with the governor this week regarding staking a claim to form the government. Vijay is expected to present his case for government formation during the upcoming discussion.

The Tamil Nadu BJP will not support any alliance to form the next government. The party respects the voters' mandate. Meanwhile, TVK is working to gather support from smaller parties. Congress has offered conditional backing. Discussions are ongoing with VCK, CPI(M), and CPI. If these parties unite behind TVK, it could form the government.

Google searches reveal a surprisingly emotional side of humanity, with millions seeking answers to basic life skills and how to support loved ones with mental health issues. This trend highlights a growing desire for personal improvement and meaningful careers, especially among younger generations, demonstrating a vulnerability often hidden online.

Uttar Pradesh is switching from smart prepaid electricity meters to postpaid. This decision follows widespread protests over billing issues. Consumers will now receive bills after using electricity. The government aims to address consumer grievances and ensure convenience. New connections will also be postpaid. This change impacts millions of households across the state.