The Economic Times
Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
So far, Google and its subsidiaries have data centres in 11 countries - the United States, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Ireland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Belgium, and Chile, spread across 29 geographic locations. The data centre cluster in Visakhapatnam is expected to be Asia's largest.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has directed officials to assess crop losses due to heavy rainfall and hailstorms across several states. The ministry is coordinating with state governments to gather ground-level information and will hold discussions with affected state agriculture ministers. Farmers are advised to deploy hail nets, harvest crops promptly, and take protective measures for livestock and produce.
Puducherry restaurants are struggling with an LPG shortage this Easter. This has forced many to alter their traditional brunch menus or cancel them entirely. Some are turning to woodfire ovens to cook. High black market prices for LPG cylinders are a major concern for business owners. The ongoing elections and political rallies are also impacting tourism and business.
Gulf countries have faced repeated drone and missile attacks from Iran in recent weeks in response to US and Israeli strikes that began in late February. Tehran has targeted energy and industrial infrastructure in the oil-rich region, accusing its neighbours of allowing US forces to launch attacks from their territory - claims the Gulf states have strongly denied.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly criticized Opposition leader Edappadi K Palaniswami. Stalin accused Palaniswami of spreading lies and misinformation. He highlighted the DMK government's successful implementation of promises despite challenges. Stalin also defended the new coupon scheme, refuting claims of corruption.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has accused Kerala's ruling LDF and opposition UDF of ignoring alleged Waqf Board land encroachments in Ernakulam. He stated that the BJP government amended laws to curb such irregularities. Shah claimed around 400 acres belonging to Christian and Hindu families were taken over. He emphasized that only the BJP took action on these issues.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan campaigns in his Dharmadam constituency. He highlights welfare schemes and development projects. Locals express mixed feelings about the upcoming elections. Vijayan faces a challenge from UDF's V P Abdul Rasheed. Dharmadam was declared free of extreme poverty. Residents are confident Vijayan will win.
Kerala's capital city sees intense assembly election battles. Vattiyoorkavu and Kazhakootam are set for fierce contests. The BJP seeks to build on its recent corporation victory. The LDF and UDF aim to fight back. Local leaders face challenges and voter sentiment will be crucial. The outcome remains uncertain.
DMK leader Kanimozhi champions direct cash support as an economic engine. She emphasizes Tamil Nadu's rights and opposes shifting delimitation to the 2011 census, advocating for the 1971 baseline. The party's electoral strength stems from its governance and welfare schemes. Kanimozhi dismisses divisive politics and sees no significant challenger to CM Stalin's leadership.
The third phase of electoral roll revision faces a delay. It was initially planned for April but is now expected after June. The ongoing 16th census exercise is the primary reason for this postponement. Booth level officers, essential for the revision, are also involved in the census. This overlap creates challenges for enumerators. Previous phases also encountered difficulties and delays.
In Malda's remote villages, women are actively engaged in bidi-making, a traditional livelihood. This self-employment provides income independent of government welfare schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar. Despite challenges, these women demonstrate resilience and a strong work ethic.
US President Donald Trump issued a strong social media warning to Iran on Easter Sunday. He threatened severe consequences if the Strait of Hormuz was not opened. This statement followed a US military operation to rescue a fighter jet crew member inside Iran. Political figures from both parties criticized Trump's language as inappropriate and dangerous, urging de-escalation.
A shocking 2-1 loss at St. Mary's stadium left Arsenal with just the Premier League and Champions League as trophy targets. A knee injury to Gabriel Magalhaes, which forced off the Brazil center back in the second half, added more misery for Arteta, who suggested there were players who took the field against Southampton despite having fitness problems of their own.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the Malda incident where judicial officers were held hostage. He accused the Trinamool Congress of appeasement politics and demographic change. Modi assured fair polls and vowed accountability for Trinamool's actions. He also highlighted neglect of various communities and promised progress for women and population control.
The Congress party has leveled serious accusations against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma. Documents suggest Riniki Bhuyan Sarma holds three foreign passports from the UAE, Antigua and Barbuda, and Egypt. The party also claims she has failed to disclose overseas assets in election affidavits. Indian law prohibits dual citizenship.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of corruption and spreading hatred. Gandhi stated Sarma is the most corrupt Chief Minister in the country. He asserted that Sarma will be held accountable for his actions. Gandhi highlighted Assam's culture of harmony and brotherhood.
Tensions in Sujapur, Malda district, are simmering as the assembly elections approach. Local residents express a mix of disappointment and outrage, primarily directed at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's comments attributing Mofakkarul Islam's arrest to the CID. The incident has particularly sparked frustration within the Muslim community, with many feeling marginalized.
Guwahati Central constituency faces intense election debates. An outsider argument surrounds BJP's Vijay Gupta. AJP's Kunki Chowdhury alleges deepfake videos targeting her. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma criticizes Chowdhury's mother over beef consumption and alleged anti-national links. Chowdhury denies these claims. The Gorkha community supports Chowdhury. Economist Parakala Prabhakar praises her leadership qualities. The constituency has over 1.9 lakh voters.
A significant ruling by the appellate tribunal in Bengal has reinstated Congress candidate Motab Sheikh to the electoral roll for the Farakka constituency. This historic decision, delivered on a Sunday, marks the tribunal's first judgment. Meanwhile, the West Bengal CEO is touring districts to ensure a secure and fair election process for all voters.
President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for Iran to negotiate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran faces devastating infrastructure attacks if a deal is not reached by Tuesday evening. Trump stated that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons. The US also attempted to send weapons to Iranian protesters via Kurdish intermediaries.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about the escalating regional situation. The discussion occurred amidst heightened tensions in West Asia, particularly concerning the vital Strait of Hormuz oil transit route. India is closely observing these developments due to its significant energy security interests.
Elizabeth Olsen's quote advocates for shifting focus from negativity to intentional positivity, suggesting that amplifying what is great can lead to new discoveries for others. This approach emphasizes conscious direction of one's voice, highlighting inspiring elements rather than dwelling on dislikes. Olsen, known for her versatile acting career, embodies this thoughtful perspective, valuing intention over mere performance.
Quote of the Day: Mark Twains statement offers more than just a moment of amusement, it delivers a timeless lesson on the importance of scepticism and critical thinking.
Super Mario Galaxy movie has done wonderful business over the three-day Easter weekend in the United States.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called on women to be prepared with broomsticks to counter any disruptions during the upcoming assembly elections. She warned voters about potential body frisking by the Central Armed Police Force. Banerjee also alleged that outsiders were present at a nomination rally and that her party's posters were damaged.
Pace bowler Mohammed Shami delivered a stellar performance for Lucknow Super Giants in their IPL victory. He highlighted the importance of domestic cricket and fitness for his match readiness. Shami's economical bowling, including crucial wickets, secured the win. He emphasized adapting to pitch conditions and using slower deliveries effectively.
While the investigation into Nancy Guthries disappearance continues, Savannah Guthries decision to step back into the public eye was much-awaited by the viewers.
NASA's Artemis II mission encountered unexpected toilet problems. Astronauts experienced issues with the waste management system's pump and a potential ice blockage in the vent. Mission control provided guidance, and the crew used solar warming to melt the ice. After troubleshooting, the toilet was declared fully operational for all uses.
A complex US rescue operation deep inside Iran successfully recovered a downed F-15E crew member, but at the cost of destroying at least one high-tech MC-130J Commando II aircraft on the ground.
Delhi Police have apprehended two individuals, Mosab Ahmed and Mohammad Hamad Kalra, in Maharashtra. These men are reportedly connected to ISIS. Authorities state they were in communication with a handler from Jaish-e-Mohammad. The arrests were made in Kalyan and Kurla West. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to counter extremist networks.
A civilian airliner, Iran Air Flight 655, met a tragic end on July 3, 1988. The U.S. Navy cruiser USS Vincennes mistakenly shot down the Airbus A300 over the Strait of Hormuz. All 290 people aboard perished. The incident occurred during heightened tensions of the Iran-Iraq War. The U.S. called it an error, while Iran condemned it as an attack.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated the 33 percent women's reservation law will benefit women from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. He addressed women voters in Cooch Behar, invoking Shakti worship and highlighting the BJP's commitment to their security and empowerment. Modi assured states that population control efforts would not lead to seat loss.
The quicker turnaround for Bridgerton may reflect a broader shift in Netflixs content strategy, as the platform looks to retain audience engagement by reducing long gaps between seasons of its most popular shows.
Pakistan security forces have killed almost 800 Afghan Taliban terrorists. The operation, Ghazab lil-Haq, has resulted in significant losses for the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Hundreds of terrorists were killed and injured. Many posts and military equipment were destroyed. The operation began after unprovoked firing from across the border. Pakistan is also in talks with Afghanistan's Taliban government.
Iran has effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, which normally carries about a fifth of the world's total oil trade, in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli attacks that began on February 28.
A US airman survived over 24 hours in hostile Iranian territory after his F-15E was downed, evading capture through skill and terrain. A complex, high-stakes rescue operation involving hundreds of personnel, deception tactics, and airstrikes successfully extracted the injured officer, despite facing setbacks and Iranian claims.
India's gold imports saw a significant rise of 28.73 percent, reaching USD 69 billion in the first eleven months of fiscal 2025-26. This surge, attributed to elevated gold prices, has contributed to a wider trade deficit. Switzerland remains the primary source for these imports. The increased gold imports also impact the country's current account deficit.
Iran's representative in India, Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, stated Pakistan is not mediating the West Asia conflict. He clarified claims of Islamabad facilitating talks between Iran and the US are false. Ilahi suggested these claims aimed to influence oil prices. He believes all countries, including India, can help end the war.
Donald Trump said in an interview with Fox News on Sunday that Iran was negotiating and he believed a deal could be concluded by Monday.
India faces a critical challenge with excessive groundwater extraction, contributing 25 percent to global withdrawals. A parliamentary committee has urged the Jal Shakti Ministry to act. States are urged to implement stringent measures to curb over-extraction. Recent assessments show some improvement, but sustained efforts are vital for long-term water security.
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for protecting Manipur's borders. He also commended Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for elevating Manipuri language status in Assam. Singh urged Manipuri people in Assam to support the BJP government. He recalled past neglect of the Northeast by Congress and emphasized BJP's commitment to the region's welfare.
Lucknow Super Giants secured a five-wicket victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Rishabh Pant played a captain's knock with an unbeaten 68. Mohammed Shami's early bowling spell proved effective. Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy provided resistance for Hyderabad. Pant's responsible batting guided Lucknow to the target in the final over.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah questions Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent assurance regarding the delimitation exercise. He suggests the timing is politically motivated due to upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Siddaramaiah argues the proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats unfairly benefits northern and western states over southern ones.
A viral video on X shows a dog attacking multiple people in quick succession on April 3, 2026. The footage captures the animal's aggressive behavior, prompting concerns about rabies. Experts emphasize immediate medical attention for bites and scratches, highlighting the critical need for wound cleaning, vaccination, and rabies immunoglobulin.

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