The Economic Times

Beijing on Thursday unveiled a slightly lower growth target of 4.5%-5% for 2026, down from last year's 5%, which was met largely through a one-fifth surge in its trade surplus to a record $1.2 trillion.

A business writer, laid off for the third time due to AI's impact, sought a new, less sedentary trade at 47. Reddit users suggested various skilled trades and technical roles, with city bus driver emerging as a surprisingly popular and practical option, offering stable pay and benefits.

Corey Harrison, known for appearing on the reality TV series Pawn Stars, is asking fans for help after a devastating motorcycle accident in Tulum, Mexico. The crash left him with serious injuries, including 11 fractured ribs, a punctured lung, a concussion, and internal bleeding. Medical treatment and multiple surgeries pushed his hospital bills beyond $100,000.

Polls show that a plebiscite on Sunday sparked by campaigners seeking to legally enshrine the availability of physical money will probably win enough backing to pass in some form, in a result that would contrast with consumers increasing enthusiasm for digital transactions.

Gasoline prices in the US have reached their highest point during President Trump's tenure. This surge is driven by disruptions in West Asia affecting energy supplies. Saudi Arabia has significantly increased oil prices for Asian buyers. Experts predict a potential shutdown of Gulf energy exports, driving oil prices to $150 per barrel.

The Quote of the Day by Jane Fonda shares a simple message about personal growth and self-improvement. The famous actress and activist believed people can always learn and improve their weaknesses. Her life in films, activism, and public work shows how change and learning can happen at any stage of life, inspiring many people around the world today.

Home-cooked vegetarian thali costs held steady in February. Non-vegetarian thali prices dropped three percent. Lower onion, potato, and pulse prices balanced rising tomato costs for vegetarian meals. Broiler prices, a major component of non-veg thalis, declined. Vegetable prices are expected to ease. West Asia tensions may impact basmati rice exports.

John Lennons quote, There are two basic motivating forces: fear and love, emphasizes the main elements behind human behavior. Fear pushes people toward caution, avoidance, and self-protection, while love inspires connection, creativity, and courage. This duality shapes decisions, actions, and relationships in both personal and professional life. By recognizing which force is influencing us, individuals can choose paths that foster growth, empathy, and fulfillment

The United States has authorized the import of Venezuelan gold. This move follows a visit by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and signals a thawing of relations. Diplomatic ties are being restored after the removal of Nicolas Maduro. Venezuela possesses significant mineral wealth beyond oil, including gold and diamonds. Many companies are showing interest in investing in the country.

Quote of the day by Morgan Freeman: The actor believes kindness can change the world. His message highlights how small, random acts of compassion create a positive ripple effect. These simple gestures, accessible to everyone, can significantly impact individuals and communities. Freeman's own life and career, marked by iconic roles and numerous awards, inspire this philosophy.

President Donald Trump has declared Cuba will fall pretty soon. This comes as the island nation faces a US energy blockade. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead efforts for regime change in Havana. Cuba has been grappling with severe economic issues, including fuel shortages, for years. The US capture of Venezuela's president has impacted oil supplies to the island.

Former and current Australian High Commissioners to India shared insights on the bilateral relationship's evolution over two decades. The panel highlighted advancements in education, defense, and economic cooperation, noting the relationship's rapid growth and deepening integration as strategic, economic, and cultural partners.

Veteran politician Karan Singh revealed the 1975-77 forced sterilization drive stemmed from north Indian chief ministers seeing Sanjay Gandhi as a rising force. Singh, the former health minister, stated he set reasonable targets, but Gandhi increased them. This led chief ministers to exceed goals, resulting in forced sterilizations.

India is stepping into the future of farming with the integration of artificial intelligence. New initiatives such as AgriStack and Bharat VISTAAR are on the horizon, designed to offer customised guidance to farmers facing the challenges of unpredictable climates and variable market trends.

India receives a 30-day US waiver to buy Russian oil. This move sparks a political storm. The government calls it a win for energy security. The opposition criticizes it as a sign of dependency on America. Leaders debate national sovereignty and foreign policy. The waiver allows refiners to purchase stranded Russian crude oil.

The Weekly Horoscope for March 915 highlights a gradual shift toward progress as Jupiter Retrograde ends. While the cosmic atmosphere begins opening new doors, the lingering effects of Mercury retrograde suggest that thoughtful planning and reflection remain important.

Dillon Brooks, the Houston Rockets forward, is again in the news after reports of a DUI arrest in Scottsdale. Fans are also talking about his NBA salary, net worth, and luxury lifestyle. Brooks has earned millions through contracts with Memphis and Houston while also investing in businesses and buying expensive cars and homes as he builds his financial future.

In a trade notice, the DGFT said that new MSMEs, involved in international value chains through e-commerce with prior domestic e-commerce experience shall also be eligible, subject to a minimum of one year of regular domestic e-commerce operations.

Quote of the day by J. Robert Oppenheimer: At 5:29 a.m. on July 16, 1945, the New Mexico desert turned white. A 21,000-ton TNT blast ripped the sky open. The man who built it stood and watched in silence. J. Robert Oppenheimer, scientific director of the Manhattan Project, did not celebrate. He whispered a line from the Bhagavad Gita Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds and the nuclear age began. His bomb killed between 129,000 and 226,000 people within weeks. The U.S. government gav

Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi highlighted the need for nations to develop their own defense industries. He stressed upgrading technology during production and being ready for rapid adaptation. Admiral Tripathi noted that the idea of short, decisive wars may be questionable. He also mentioned India's focus on self-reliance and co-development in the defense sector.

Nagpur's Gandhe brothers, Vikram and Ajinkya, have won MasterChef India Season 9, showcasing Indian cuisine's creativity. The finale aired on March 6, with the duo receiving Rs 25 lakh. This season featured a unique 'jodi' format, judged by Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapur.

A wedding celebration turned to mourning for Squadron Leader Anuj Vashisht's family in Gurugram. He was killed in a Su-30 MKI crash in Assam's Karbi Anglong district. The Indian Air Force confirmed his death along with Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar. The aircraft disappeared from radar after taking off from Jorhat airbase. The nation mourns the sacrifice of its brave sons.

Iran war: The ship, IRIS Lavan, developed urgent technical issues and was granted emergency docking approval on March 1, following a request from the Iranian side, Indian govt sources revealed.

US jobs report February 2026: US employers slashed 92,000 jobs in February, a stark surprise as the unemployment rate climbed to 4.4%. Major sectors like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing saw significant cuts. Rising oil prices and global conflicts are making businesses hesitant to hire, creating a challenging economic climate.

Thought of the Day: Tysons own life, marked by extraordinary triumphs, painful setbacks, and eventual reinvention, illustrates this principle vividly. His words encourage individuals to continue dreaming, striving, and learning from every step of their journey.

Iran has used cluster bombs multiple times since the war began. Israel's military confirmed this development. This type of weapon is banned when used against civilians. Evidence of cluster munitions was found. These weapons scatter bomblets that can remain dangerous for a long time. Amnesty International previously reported Iran's use of these banned munitions.

US stock market crash: Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq down today. The Dow Jones fell 562 points to 47,392.51. The S&P 500 dropped 75 points to 6,754.75. The Nasdaq slipped 217 points to 22,531.24. Investors reacted to rising oil prices, bond yields, and economic uncertainty. WTI crude surged 9.6% to $88.79, increasing inflation fears. Crypto also weakened. Bitcoin fell to $68,331. Some stocks still rallied. Day One Biopharmaceuticals jumped 65%. Marvell Technology rose nearly 17%. Losers included Owlet

Vituperate is a strong English verb that means to criticize someone with very harsh and angry words. The word is often used in formal language, debates, and strong arguments. It comes from Latin roots connected to blame and fault. The term has been used in English for hundreds of years and is still used today to describe very aggressive criticism.

Haryana Police have filed an FIR against rapper Badshah following a complaint alleging objectionable lyrics and visuals in his Haryanvi music video 'Tateeree'. The complaint, which led to the FIR under relevant legal sections, also prompted the Haryana State Commission for Women to summon the musician for clarification on the song's content and its portrayal of a school-like setting.

A Delhi court has postponed the bail hearing for three Indian Youth Congress workers. They were arrested in connection with the AI Summit protest. Their judicial custody has been extended. The court is awaiting a verification report for another accused's bail. The investigation is ongoing.

Achluophobia is the intense fear of darkness, affecting both children and adults. Unlike simple unease in low light, it can trigger anxiety and avoidance behaviors. It can happen in everyday situations such as walking down dark hallways, entering basements, or camping at night. Recognizing and understanding achluophobia helps normalize the fear and encourages strategies to manage it effectively.

Russia is reportedly sharing intelligence on US military assets with Iran. This comes as tensions escalate in the Middle East. Iran has launched retaliatory strikes following recent attacks. The conflict has impacted regional stability and led to US military casualties. Russia's actions could further complicate the ongoing geopolitical situation.

Hundreds of supporters took to the streets across Nepal, singing, dancing, and celebrating as former Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Balendra Shah's party, Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), claimed an absolute two-thirds majority in the parliamentary election in the country's House of Representatives as counting continues.

The 2026 Winter Paralympics are set to begin on Friday, March 6, in Milan and Cortina dAmpezzo, Italy, featuring over 600 para athletes competing in six sports. NBC and its affiliates will provide extensive live TV coverage and streaming on Peacock, with the opening ceremony starting at 1:30 p.m. ET.

Charles Dickens, a renowned 19th-century writer, penned a quote urging kindness. His words advise a heart that stays soft, a temper that endures, and a touch that avoids harm. These virtues remain vital today. Dickens' life experiences fueled his advocacy for social justice. His novels like 'Oliver Twist' and 'A Christmas Carol' highlight these enduring human qualities.

Casimir Pulaski, a hero of the American Revolutionary War, famously declared his commitment to defending freedom. His words, 'I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it,' resonate today.

Iran war: The American military's engagement in Iran serves as a proving ground for cutting-edge artificial intelligence. By enhancing intelligence analysis and optimising target selection, AI enables commanders to act decisively and swiftly. Nonetheless, the ultimate authority rests with human leaders, who oversee and validate each strike.

Sri Lanka denounced the toll of Middle East fighting on Friday as it gave refuge to more than 250 Iranian sailors two days after a deadly torpedo strike on another of Iran's ships. Wednesday's attack was the first military strike far outside the Middle East since the United States and Israel launched their war on Iran on Saturday.

Big news for Punjab! On April 1, 2026, electricity prices will take a nosedive for both homes and enterprises. Domestic customers will see their rates drop by as much as Rs 1.50 per unit, and businesses wont be left behind, with lower tariffs easing operational costs.

The Maharashtra government will transfer fifty leopards to the Vantara wildlife rescue and conservation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This move aims to boost conservation efforts for leopards. It also addresses growing concerns about human-leopard interactions in Maharashtra. The forest department finalized this arrangement after discussions with Vantara management. Further details on the transfer timeline and procedures are expected soon.

Four opposition parties in Assam have united to launch a joint campaign for the 2026 Assembly elections. The alliance aims to defeat the ruling BJP. Coordinated campaign meetings will soon be held across the state. Talks are ongoing to include more parties. This united front signals a strong challenge to the BJP's dominance in Assam.

Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28, 2026, in a joint US-Israeli military strike targeting senior Iranian leadership. Israel reportedly used an advanced missile from space called the Blue Sparrow, capable of striking targets up to 2,000 kilometers away. The operation also resulted in the deaths of over 40 senior Iranian officials.

US oil prices surged more than 10%, sending WTI crude near $88 and Brent crude close to $90 per barrel, the highest levels since 2024. The rally followed Donald Trumps demand for Irans surrender, which raised fears of a wider Middle East conflict. The Strait of Hormuz disruption now threatens global oil supply. Nearly 20% of the worlds oil shipments pass through this route. Analysts warn crude could soon hit $100 per barrel. Higher oil prices could push U.S. inflation higher again, raising risks

Quote of the day by Michelangelo: Renaissance master Michelangelo's profound words, There is no greater harm than that of time wasted, underscore life's fleeting nature. His legacy, from the Sistine Chapel to the David, exemplifies dedicating time to craft and purpose. This timeless wisdom urges us to seize every moment, learn, create, and build meaningful connections, lest opportunities vanish forever.

Quote of the Day: American entrepreneur Jim Rohn believed success is built on simple daily disciplines. These small, consistent actions like reading and skill improvement shape character and opportunities. Rohn's message remains relevant today, reminding us that lasting achievement comes from patience and consistency, not luck. Ordinary things done well every day lead to remarkable results.