The Economic Times

Nelson Mandela, a pivotal leader, championed the fusion of a sharp mind with a compassionate heart. His life exemplified this philosophy, guiding South Africa through apartheid's end. Mandela's legacy continues to inspire, emphasizing that true strength lies in balancing wisdom and empathy for societal transformation. His words offer timeless guidance.

Halle Berry's quote about sunflowers closing to regenerate in darkness highlights the importance of stepping back for healing and growth during difficult times. This powerful metaphor emphasizes resilience, suggesting that periods of pause are essential for renewal and emerging stronger after adversity. Berry's career, marked by significant achievements and a commitment to growth, exemplifies this philosophy.

The Congress in Kerala is facing fresh internal tensions ahead of the Assembly elections as Kannur MP K. Sudhakaran seeks to contest the polls, aiming for a chance at the chief ministers post if the party-led front wins. Party leadership, however, is hesitant, preferring to promote new leadership and avoid triggering a Lok Sabha bypoll.

About 117.6 million taxpayers are owed $461.2 billion in IRS tax refunds, making Wheres my tax refund one of the most searched tax questions. The Internal Revenue Service says most refunds arrive within 21 days after e-filing with direct deposit. Check your IRS tax refund status using the Wheres My Refund? IRS tool or IRS2Go app. Delays may happen due to EITC claims, filing errors, identity checks, or paper returns.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Trinamool Congress for allegedly disrespecting President Droupadi Murmu during her West Bengal visit, calling it an insult to the President, the Constitution, women, and the tribal community. Speaking at a rally in Kolkata, he warned that infiltrators were threatening local jobs and land, accused the state government of appeasement politics, and asserted that regime change in Bengal was imminent.

Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation, Tidco, is injecting 25 crore into space-tech firm AgniKul Cosmos and electric mobility startup Raptee Energy. This marks the initial phase of the Tidco Startup Investment Policy 2025. The initiative aims to strengthen the state's startup financing ecosystem. Tidco is rebranding as a venture catalyst to support future growth sectors.

The government revoked Sonam Wangchuks detention under the NSA after nearly six months, citing efforts to restore peace and promote dialogue in Ladakh. Wangchuk, detained amid protests for statehood and tribal self-governance, had been considered a key instigator of violence in September.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated the war on Iran must end. People's Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti passed a resolution supporting Iran. Both leaders emphasized Iran's right to self-determination. Mufti urged Muslim nations and India to support Iran. She also called for the release of detained protesters and highlighted the economic impact of the conflict on Kashmir.

India is striving for a unified BRICS stance on the West Asia crisis. Differing viewpoints among member nations have so far hindered consensus. Some BRICS members are directly involved in the conflict, complicating efforts for a joint statement. India, as the current BRICS chair, is facilitating discussions among the 11 member states to find common ground.

India has reverted to the 2016 seismic code after withdrawing IS 1893 (2025), sparking debate over earthquake safety. While the 2025 draft offered stronger, internationally aligned standards, higher costs and enforceability issues raised concerns. Experts advocate a balanced approach prioritising critical structures, retrofitting vulnerable homes, and improving compliance to enhance safety without overwhelming budgets.

Himachal Pradesh's Congress government has removed the Anti-Corruption Bureau and Vigilance Bureau from the Right to Information Act. This move prevents citizens from seeking information on these bodies. The opposition BJP has strongly condemned the decision. Former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur stated the action is undemocratic and against constitutional spirit.

Americans have a limited time to claim cash from a $4 million data breach settlement. Medical equipment company Numotion is offering payments to those affected by breaches in March and September 2024. Claimants can receive up to $15,000 for documented expenses. Free credit and medical monitoring are also available. The deadline to submit claims is March 18.

A fierce contest is underway for the fourth Rajya Sabha seat in Odisha. The ruling BJP and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's BJD are locked in a direct battle. The BJP is set to secure two seats comfortably. The BJD, with support from Congress and CPM, is backing a joint candidate for the crucial fourth seat.

USPS Mail Deadline: Over 160 million IRS tax returns move through the United States Postal Service every year. A new USPS postmark rule change now raises risks for taxpayers and voters. Since December 2025, the official postmark appears when mail reaches a regional sorting center, not when it enters a mailbox. The Internal Revenue Service uses postmarks to verify deadlines. Late processing could delay tax returns, mail-in ballots, and legal documents, experts warn.

The U.S. flag was raised over its embassy in Venezuela for the first time since 2019, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations. This move follows former President Nicolas Maduro's capture and President Trump's support for his successor, acting President Delcy Rodriguez, who seeks continued negotiations with the U.S.

Hollywood star Tom Hanks believes feeling good is more important than looking good. This philosophy guides his career and personal life. Hanks, known for his relatable characters, has achieved immense success through his acting. His words encourage prioritizing genuine happiness and emotional health over superficial standards. This message remains relevant in today's comparison-driven world.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emerged as a pivotal architect of President Trump's bold foreign policy, steering a course that prioritizes a raw exercise of power and strategic negotiations. His vision diverges from the conventional focus on overthrowing regimes, instead advocating for a pragmatic stance that compels authoritarian regimes to acquiesce.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the government is working to minimise the impact of ongoing global conflicts on India, assuring that efforts are being made to protect citizens from disruptions caused by war-like conditions worldwide. Speaking at an event in Silchar, where he launched and laid the foundation for development projects worth Rs 23,550 crore, Modi also criticised the Indian National Congress for allegedly spreading panic and misinformation.

The directive follows instructions from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and intends to ensure that essential services continue to receive fuel amid the escalating military conflict between Iran and the US that has put international supply routes in distress.

Ahead of Assam's assembly elections, the Congress party unveiled its second list of candidates, reserving 15 seats for its alliance partners. This follows their earlier declaration of 42 candidates for the state's 126 assembly seats. The party is actively strategizing its campaign for the upcoming polls.

Quote of the day: Anthony Hopkins once said, Today is the tomorrow I was worried about yesterday. That single line dismantles the entire architecture of anxiety. According to the American Psychological Association, 31.1% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, making fear of the future one of the most common psychological barriers to human performance and well-being. A 2023 global Gallup survey found that worry and stress are at a 15-year high worldwide, with

President Trump's administration has rejected diplomatic overtures from Middle Eastern allies seeking to end the two-week-old Iran war, with Tehran also refusing a ceasefire until U.S. and Israeli strikes cease. Both nations appear poised for a prolonged conflict, despite escalating civilian casualties and soaring oil prices due to Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Italy's Constitutional Court has signaled its intent to uphold a new law restricting citizenship by descent, effectively ending the long-standing jus sanguinis principle for distant ancestors. This change, set to take effect in March 2025, will limit eligibility to those with parents or grandparents born in Italy, impacting millions worldwide.

West Asia crisis: As the war entered its third week, Iran projected defiance after U.S. forces hit military sites at its own main oil hub, warning that parts of the UAE were a legitimate target and urging civilians to evacuate.

The US has launched a new trade investigation into excess industrial capacity among 16 partners, including India, potentially leading to new tariffs. This probe, alongside another targeting forced labor imports, could impact Indian exporters relying on Chinese components. Stricter documentation and compliance costs are anticipated as US authorities demand proof of origin for inputs.

$166 billion in disputed tariffs could soon return to U.S. businesses. The Trump tariff refund process is now taking shape. Officials at U.S. Customs and Border Protection are building the CAPE online portal to process claims. The move follows a ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States that certain tariffs were illegal. Companies may soon file refund requests. Payments will go directly to bank accounts once approved.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav married his childhood sweetheart Vanshika Chadha in Mussoorie on Saturday. Vanshika, who works in an administrative role at LIC, has maintained a private life away from the spotlight, supporting Kuldeep through his cricket career.

Gold price dropped 3% this week to about $5,032, after touching a record $5,420 during the USIran war, putting the gold price forecast under intense focus. Rising U.S. Treasury yields near 4.29% and a stronger U.S. Dollar Index above 100.40 are pressuring gold prices. Higher yields increase the opportunity cost of holding bullion. Meanwhile, oil prices above $113 are fueling inflation fears. Traders are closely watching the $5,046 support level. If safe-haven demand returns, analysts say gold co

Kishor, who was touring Jehanabad district, as part of Bihar Navnirman Yatra, aimed at mobilising public opinion in favour of his fledgling party, which came a cropper in assembly polls held a few months ago, made the remark in response to queries from journalists on the political situation.

As Israel announces a pivotal shift in its conflict with Iran, violence escalates throughout the Middle East. Reports of bomb blasts fill the air in Baghdad and Fujairah, prompting a humanitarian crisis with millions forced to flee and over 1,200 casualties in Iran. Meanwhile, global oil prices are experiencing a steep increase, reflecting the turmoil.

Alfresco, meaning 'in the fresh air,' describes enjoyable outdoor activities, particularly dining and socializing. Originating from Italian, the term now evokes pleasant, leisurely experiences in warm weather and scenic surroundings. Alfresco moments encourage relaxation, social connection, and well-being, enhancing everyday life through outdoor dining, gatherings, and lifestyle design.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, without naming any country, said some BRICS members are directly involved in the conflict, which has impacted finding a unified stance for the grouping.

India has strongly condemned Pakistan's recent airstrikes inside Afghanistan. These attacks resulted in civilian deaths and damage to infrastructure. India views these strikes as another aggressive act by Pakistan, which it believes is hostile to Afghanistan's sovereignty. India emphasizes that Afghanistan's territorial integrity must be fully respected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Phase I of the North East Gas Grid in Guwahati. This project spans 553 km across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. Natural gas connectivity now reaches the north bank of the Brahmaputra.

Filmmaker Rohit Shetty has officially announced 'Golmaal 5' on his birthday, confirming the return of the core cast and welcoming Akshay Kumar to the franchise. The director shared a humorous first-look video, marking the start of filming and expressing gratitude to the audience for two decades of support.

Tax Refund 2026: The average IRS tax refund reached $3,742 in the 2026 tax filing season, more than 10% higher than last year. That sounds like good news. But experts warn it signals tax overpayment. Changes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and outdated IRS withholding tables caused workers to pay extra tax. The refund simply returns that money. Financial planners say adjusting tax withholding and W-4 forms can improve monthly cash flow and personal finance planning.

Leonardo DiCaprio's powerful Quote of the Day, Only you and you alone can change your situation. Don't blame it on anything or anyone, underscores the importance of personal responsibility. The article highlights DiCaprio's journey from a young actor to a global star, emphasizing his consistent message of self-empowerment and accountability as a driving force for meaningful change.

Jean-Claude Van Damme became a global action star with his martial arts skills. He is famous for his flexibility and fight scenes. His career began with films like Bloodsport and Kickboxer. Van Damme also gained attention for his Epic Split commercial. He continues to be a recognizable figure in action cinema.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he hoped that China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain and others would send ships to the area.

Explore six powerful Indian foods rich in Vitamin C that aren't Amla. From the nutrient-dense Guava and spicy Green Chilies to the miracle Moringa leaves, this story details how these local, accessible ingredients can fortify your immune system and enhance skin health for a vibrant 2026.

Tensions between the US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other escalate perilously. A missile struck the helipad at the US Embassy in Baghdad, raising alarms. Meanwhile, drone wreckage caused chaos at an oil facility in the UAE, heightening fears as Iran issued stark warnings to Emirati cities.

Elevate your cognitive performance with these seven vegetarian Omega-3 powerhouses. From the high-potency ALA in flaxseeds to the direct DHA in algal oil, this story outlines how to naturally sharpen your mental clarity, reduce brain fog, and protect your long-term brain health using accessible plant-based Indian ingredients.

Iran war LPG crisis: The West Asia conflict has impacted the supply of crude oil and petroleum products, following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow water passage between Iran and Oman.

Stop hair fall at the root by incorporating these seven nutrient-dense foods into your 2026 diet. From protein-packed eggs and iron-rich spinach to the traditional power of curry leaves and walnuts, this guide explains how specific vitamins and minerals work together to strengthen follicles and promote thick, healthy hair growth.