The Economic Times
Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
The Election Commission of India has suspended seven election officials. These officials face disciplinary action for serious misconduct and dereliction of duty. The Commission has also ordered the disposal of all objections received in Form 7s by February 16. This action follows a Supreme Court order. The ECI is ensuring all claims and objections are addressed promptly.
NASCAR Daytona 500 live streaming: Daytona 500, the season-opening race of the NASCAR season and its biggest race of the year.
Africa has stepped into the spotlight as a global powerhouse, not just an emerging market. Visionary Mo Abudu, the trailblazer behind EbonyLife Media, underscores the continent's vibrant entrepreneurial drive and its youthful demographic. With a treasure trove of natural resources and a booming media landscape, Africa bursts with opportunities.
UAE's Crescent Group is investing $150 million in India. This move signals a broader trend of Gulf investors diversifying away from North America and Europe. India's strong economic fundamentals and growth potential are key drivers. Crescent Group will focus on consumer, pharma, manufacturing, and financial services. This expansion highlights India's growing importance as an investment destination for global capital.
Quote of the Day by George Washington: The line is part of George Washington's first annual address to Congress. The event took place on January 8, 1790.
India's data centre market is set for a wave of consolidation. Larger companies are expected to acquire smaller operators. This trend is driven by the need for scale, funding, and diversified customers. Experts predict that operators with strong infrastructure and AI-ready capabilities will lead. Companies that struggle to sustain themselves may become acquisition targets.
Nearly a decade after RERA's enactment, scrutiny is shifting to regulators as the Supreme Court questions their effectiveness in protecting homebuyers. A homebuyer advocacy group alleges most state RERA authorities are failing to publish mandatory annual reports, hindering objective assessment of the law's impact on project delivery and buyer protection.
Admiral Samuel J. Paparo of the US expressed admiration for India's Operation Sindoor, commending its strategic precision and the measured approach taken. He reflected on the insights gained from Pakistan's deployment of Chinese weaponry and voiced optimism for enduring collaboration between India and the US to avert future tensions.
China will welcome citizens from Canada and Britain without visas from Tuesday. This follows agreements made after recent visits by their leaders to Beijing. Prime Ministers Keir Starmer and Mark Carney met with senior Chinese officials, including President Xi Jinping. Visa-free travel was a key outcome of these discussions aimed at strengthening ties.
While foreign secretary Vikram Misri could visit Washington for political and strategic dialogue, a few US ministers are expected to travel to New Delhi for sector specific engagement, ET has learnt.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that US President Donald Trump still wants to control Greenland. This interest from the US has caused friction with Denmark. Earlier threats from Trump to take the Arctic island by force have softened. However, Frederiksen believes the underlying desire for ownership remains. The mineral-rich territory is an autonomous part of Denmark.
Australia has announced a significant investment of AU$3.9 billion for nuclear-powered submarines. This funding is part of the AUKUS security pact with Britain and the United States. The new submarines, designed in the US, will bolster Australia's defence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Opposition's move to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has unexpectedly granted him a period of relaxation. While the motion's outcome is predictable, the Speaker will enjoy a break from the intense parliamentary sessions. This gives the Opposition a chance to regroup and find new targets for their concerns.
China should coordinate efforts to boost consumption and expand investment, and fully leverage the advantages of China's super-large-scale market, Xi said in comments published by Qiushi, the Communist Party's flagship journal. He stressed improving livelihoods, stabilizing investment and supporting long-term growth.
French investigators are probing new leads in the Jeffrey Epstein case. They are re-examining the situation of modelling agent Jean-Luc Brunel, who died in prison. New documents from the US Justice Department are being reviewed for connections to French citizens. Former minister Jack Lang resigned amid allegations. This broadens the ongoing global impact of the Epstein revelations.
In a notable display of diplomacy, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will attend the inauguration of Bangladesh's newly formed government, led by Tarique Rahman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Set to take place in Dhaka on Tuesday, this ceremony not only celebrates the democratic process but also reinforces the enduring friendship between India and Bangladesh.
In the recent elections, Jamaat-e-Islami, known for its pro-Pakistan stance, clinched more than 70 seats in Bangladesh. However, the party will not take the reins of government, instead positioning itself as a formidable opposition voice.
In a bold statement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized the Congress party for its Dunkel proposals, claiming they jeopardize the well-being of farmers. He emphasized the Modi administration's commitment to safeguarding agricultural interests since 2014.
In a bold move, Rahul Gandhi has taken his concerns directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding transparency regarding the impending trade agreement with the United States. He is particularly interested in the introduction of distiller's dried grains and what it could mean for the welfare of Indian cattle.
Karnataka's IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge highlights that communal tensions are hindering investment in Mangaluru and Udupi-Manipal. These coastal cities possess significant economic potential, but investor confidence is shaken. The minister urges leaders to exercise restraint on communal issues. The government is working to boost job creation and economic growth in these regions.
India secured a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan. Indian bowlers displayed relentless intensity and tactical brilliance. Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah initiated early destruction. Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy further tightened the grip with spin. Exceptional fielding backed the bowlers. The win demonstrated clear authority and a resounding statement.
The Year of the Fire Horse, beginning February 17, is considered especially dynamic and auspicious. In Chinese astrology, the Horse symbolises growth and forward momentum, while the Fire element heightens energy, passion and transformative change.
A defence cooperation agreement is expected to be renewed for another 10 years, with an MoU on joint venture for manufacturing of Hammer missiles likely to be signed at the meeting in the presence of both the ministers, the defence ministry here said on Sunday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi calls on India's private sector to boost investment and innovation. He highlights the government's infrastructure push and urges companies to invest in R&D and new technologies. This partnership is crucial for driving globally competitive growth and achieving a developed India by 2047. The focus is on innovation, efficiency, and scale for sustainable economic momentum.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a decisive victory in the general elections, winning 49.97% of the votes and 209 seats. Its former ally, Jamaat-e-Islami, emerged as the main opposition with 31.76% of the votes and 68 seats. The election landscape was altered by the disqualification of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League.
Workplace challenges and conflicts: A 30-year-old professional has sparked widespread online debate after alleging that a company laid him off due to budget constraints, only to appoint the intern he had personally mentored to his position just weeks later.
Gujarat requires 30 lakh skilled workers. The government is implementing plans to bridge this gap. Training programs are being aligned with industry needs. The India Skill Competition aims to prepare youth for future job requirements. This initiative is crucial for shaping the nation's workforce and industrial growth.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights his government's reform achievements and future plans. He emphasizes continued structural reforms, deepening innovation, and simplifying governance. These initiatives aim to benefit common citizens and businesses. The Prime Minister expresses a commitment to continuous improvement and serving the nation better. Reforms have already eased burdens and improved connectivity across India.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured European leaders the US seeks partnership, not a vassal relationship, urging them to embrace Donald Trump's vision for global renewal. He met with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico and will meet Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, both staunch right-wing allies of Trump, to discuss strengthening transatlantic ties and energy cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his perspective on progress. He believes public life demands continuous effort and improvement. He noted that while he is never fully satisfied, it is important to recognize the significant advancements made. The government's commitment to reform has led to systemic transformation. This journey of reform continues to gain momentum across various sectors.
Largest measles outbreak in the recent past have raised fears especially college campuses.
In an exclusive interview with PTI, Modi said India's deals signed with Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the EU, and the US have opened access for MSMEs, particularly in labour-intensive sectors, to export to these regions with near-zero tariffs or tariffs much lower than those of other exporting countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's achievement of presenting nine consecutive budgets. This milestone is a source of national pride. Many women across India find inspiration in Sitharaman's accomplishment. She is now one budget short of the record held by Morarji Desai. This feat marks a significant moment in Indian financial history.
Solar Eclipse Horoscope: Eclipses occur four to six times each year. Solar eclipses, in particular, are often linked to fresh starts, such as new careers, unexpected moves, shifting relationships or significant life decisions.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Episode 5 global streaming timings, release schedule and how to watch worldwide is confirmed. Episode 5 releases on February 15 and 16, 2026. HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, JioHotstar and other platforms stream it. The episode continues the Trial of Seven storyline and leads toward the season finale.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that broken infrastructure has no place in a nation aspiring to become developed. He highlighted the government's proactive approach to budgets, driven by a sense of urgency and preparation for global integration. Modi stressed the crucial role of MSMEs and women in achieving a 'Viksit Bharat'.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi believes women are key to building a developed India. Government initiatives are empowering women across science, technology, and healthcare. New STEM hostels and caregiver training programs aim to boost education and create dignified employment. Efforts in AVGC sectors and community retail outlets will also increase women's participation and self-reliance, strengthening their social standing.
India faces Pakistan in the 2026 T20 World Cup. Pakistani bowler Usman Tariq's unusual action is drawing attention. His sling-like delivery and pre-release pause are notable. Tariq has passed ICC tests for his bowling action. This match is crucial for both teams' qualification chances for the next stage of the tournament.
As a country that is playing an increasingly important role in the world, India has a duty to modernise its defence sector in line with current realities, Modi said in an exclusive interview to PTI.
Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar believes Pinarayi Vijayan will remain Kerala's chief minister. He spoke at an event in Thiruvananthapuram. Aiyar urged legal changes to boost Kerala's Panchayati Raj system. He recalled Mahatma Gandhi's vision for local governance. Aiyar requested Chief Minister Vijayan to lead the Panchayati Raj movement. He stated the Congress has dropped the baton.
February New Moon: The energy of Aquarius thrives on authenticity. By aligning intentions with ones true identity, individuals may find the coming months marked by breakthroughs rather than setbacks.
Ramzan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The daily fast in Ramzan includes abstaining from all food and drink not even a sip of water is allowed from dawn to sunset, before breaking the fast in a meal known as 'iftar' in Arabic.

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