The Economic Times

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Indian Army, recently concluded a pivotal visit to the Pentagon where he met with top US military officials. The discussions were aimed at bolstering defense cooperation, with both sides exploring fresh avenues for capability enhancement and coordinated efforts in joint operations.

African proverb of the day: Human success is a shared journey. African wisdom highlights that no one achieves greatness alone. Our lives are woven with connections. Family, friends, and even strangers play vital roles. This interconnectedness fosters empathy and kindness. Understanding this collective spirit builds stronger communities.

The State Department is releasing limited-edition U.S. passports to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. These special passports, featuring President Trump's image and the Declaration of Independence text, will be available this summer. The design also includes an altered cover and a unique back with 250 and historical stars.

Planning ahead for May 2026 is essential for alcohol consumers. India observes dry days on specific dates when alcohol sales are prohibited. In May 2026, these include Buddha Purnima on May 1 and Id-ul-Zuha on May 27. Liquor shops and licensed establishments will be closed for alcohol service on these days. Private consumption at home remains permissible.

Aldous Huxleys quote explains why we should not believe anything without proof. It teaches us to think clearly, check facts, and avoid blind trust. In todays world full of information and fake news, this idea is very important. Huxley, the author of Brave New World, reminds us to use our mind and believe only what is true.

Indeed has launched its job search app within ChatGPT in India and more than 50 countries. Users can now find jobs through simple conversations. The platform uses AI to offer personalised recommendations based on user profiles. This integration aims to help job seekers turn career inspiration into action by simplifying the job search process.

West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Central security forces allegedly baton-charged civilians, including women and a child, in South 24 Parganas during West Bengal elections. TMC leaders condemned the violence, calling for accountability. An Election Commission official stated action will be taken if any security personnel are found involved in injuring the child. The incident occurred amid heightened political activity and deployment of a special observer.

The 2026 Assembly elections in West Bengal are set to be a thrilling showdown, positioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Each leader is harnessing the power of personal narratives and community engagement in their strategies. Emotional appeal and voter interaction are at the forefront, with welfare initiatives becoming pivotal in their campaigns.

A remarkable ichthyosaur fossil found in Germany is revealing secrets about ancient marine reptiles. This well-preserved specimen, belonging to the Temnodontosaurus genus, lived around 180 million years ago. It shows evidence of injuries and adaptations, suggesting survival despite physical challenges. Researchers are studying its anatomy and diet to understand Jurassic sea life better.

The White House state dinner hosted by Donald Trump for King Charles III became a viral global moment after the monarch presented a historic bell from HMS Trump, a World War II submarine. The symbolic gift highlighted the deep-rooted alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States. The elegant white-tie evening, attended by top dignitaries, reflected diplomatic warmth, shared heritage, and the enduring special relationship between both nations in a modern context.

BJP Kerala Elections Strategies: Bharatiya Janata Party is intensifying its electoral push in Kerala. The party is focusing on select constituencies and prominent local faces. A development-oriented pitch is central to its strategy. The BJP aims to break into a state long dominated by a bipolar contest. Exit polls later today will indicate the outcome of this closely watched election.

China will offer zero-tariff benefits to all African nations with diplomatic ties starting May 1. This initiative expands previous measures for least developed countries. The move aims to boost trade and economic partnership between China and Africa. This policy will be implemented in phases, with further agreements planned to enhance trade facilitation and agricultural exports from Africa.

Students in Maharashtra will soon receive their degree certificates digitally. The state government has directed universities to upload these certificates on DigiLocker right after results are announced. This move aims to prevent delays and ensure students do not miss academic or career opportunities. DigiLocker will provide a secure and easily accessible digital document for all their future needs.

A Ghaziabad couple's wedding at a riverside cremation site in Almora, Uttarakhand, has ignited public fury. Decorated for ceremonies with music and guests, the sacred ghat's use for celebration has been widely condemned as disrespectful. This incident underscores the urgent need for tourism guidelines to protect local traditions amidst Uttarakhand's growing destination wedding appeal.

FOMC meeting today: Jerome Powell speech, Fed interest rate decision, and US Fed policy outlook. The FOMC meeting today comes with a clear signal. Markets price a 100% rate hold. The Fed interest rate decision lands at 2 PM ET. The Jerome Powell speech follows at 2:30 PM ET. Inflation still sits near 3.3%. Oil prices remain elevated. Job data looks uneven. This keeps the US Fed policy today cautious. No rate cut is expected now. But forward guidance matters more. Powells tone may shift expectati

India and Kenya are exploring trade settlements in their own currencies. Discussions also covered digital payment systems like UPI. A joint trade committee meeting in Nairobi focused on boosting bilateral commerce. An agreement was signed to exchange customs information. Bilateral trade saw a significant increase in the last fiscal year.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced AstraZeneca will invest 300 million pounds in UK life sciences. This significant investment secures 1,000 jobs in Macclesfield and Cambridge. The deal follows a pharmaceutical arrangement with the United States. This move signals renewed confidence in the UK's life sciences sector.

The term callithumpian dates back to 19th-century America, where it was associated with so-called callithumpian parades, noisy, mock processions staged to celebrate or satirize public figures.

Labour and employment minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Wednesday, said that the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) settled 6.103 million claims in April 2026, with nearly 74% of PF advance claims processed in auto mode and 98.70% of total claims settled in less than 20 days, on the back of EPFO 3.0, a digital overhaul of the retirement fund body designed for instant, paperless PF withdrawals and faster automated claim settlements.

Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister, has accused central forces of bias during the ongoing polling. She stated that CRPF personnel were seen supporting a particular political party. Banerjee emphasized that voters in queues until the polling closure must be allowed to cast their ballots. She expressed disappointment with the conduct of the CRPF during the election process.

Kalita Majhi, a domestic worker and BJP candidate, has left a void in her employers' lives as she campaigns for the Ausgram seat. Her employers, who view her as family, are struggling with daily routines in her absence. Majhi aims to prove that a domestic worker can become an MLA and represent the economically weaker sections.

Over 18 lakh students await their CBSE Class 12 results, expected in the third week of May 2026. The examinations concluded on April 10, with results to be announced on official CBSE websites and DigiLocker. Students need 33% overall and in theory/practical exams to pass.

Argentina and India are forging stronger economic bonds, with India becoming Argentina's sixth-largest trade partner. Their collaboration is focused on ensuring food security and accessing essential minerals. Notably, Argentina is a major exporter of edible oils to India, enhancing the strategic partnership that was amplified in 2019. Additionally, Argentina plays a pivotal role in supporting India's energy security requirements.

Karachi residents are resorting to storing gas in plastic balloons due to prolonged load-shedding and low pressure. This practice, particularly in Orangi Town, involves filling specially designed balloons during brief supply periods for cooking. Experts warn of significant safety risks, calling the balloons a 'mobile bomb' and urging authorities to intervene.

William Wrigley Jr.'s business empire began not with a breakthrough product, but with an ingenious observation. Initially offering gum as a free bonus with baking powder, he noticed consumers' overwhelming preference for the gum. This feedback led him to pivot, transforming a giveaway into the foundation of a globally recognized brand and a revolution in branded consumer goods.

Maharashtra's cabinet has approved a new Artificial Intelligence Policy 2026. This policy aims for a massive Rs 10,000 crore investment in AI. It also plans to create 1.5 lakh new jobs. The state will establish AI Excellence Centres and Innovation Cities. The goal is to build a skilled workforce and boost AI adoption across industries.

India and Sri Lanka strengthened their maritime ties during the IN-SLN DIVEX 2026 diving exercise in Colombo. Divers from both navies conducted complex underwater operations, including deep-sea dives beyond 55 meters. The exercise enhanced interoperability and coordination in the Indian Ocean Region. Humanitarian aid was also extended. The event concluded with a ceremonial send-off, highlighting a robust partnership.

Farmers opposing the land acquisition expressed fears of losing their livelihood. As the situation escalated, police attempted to control the protest, leading to allegations of manhandling and physical assault. It is also reported that some farmers were allegedly dragged by their collars during the incident.

Tamil Nadu Exit Polls 2026: After voting concluded on April 23, today, April 29 marks the release of exit polls after 6 pm for the Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026, as the states 234 constituencies come under intense political scrutiny shaped by legacy battles, internal rivalries, and the enduring influence of Amma J Jayalalithaa. The exit polls today after 6 pm Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026 are being closely watched as a crucial indicator for key AIADMK leaders such as Edappadi K Palaniswa

In the bustling heart of Karachi, commuters found their daily routines thrown into chaos as prolonged power outages struck Railway Colony. Frustrated residents took to the streets, leading to major traffic snarls on vital roads, leaving office workers, students, and patients trapped in a gridlock for hours.

Voter turnout in West Bengal elections remains high despite TMC's alleged attempts to instill fear. Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury credits central security forces for enabling citizens to vote without apprehension. He noted a significant reduction in poll-related violence compared to past local elections.

The Delhi High Court will hear the CBI's petition on May 4. This petition challenges a trial court order that discharged Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and 21 others in the liquor policy case. The court granted a final opportunity for replies. The Enforcement Directorate's plea to expunge remarks is also listed for May 4.

The Kedarnath Yatra faces disruptions due to a two-day orange alert and adverse weather. Helicopter services are suspended across multiple locations. Authorities are on high alert, prioritizing pilgrim safety. Security measures are enhanced, with a special operation launched to identify suspicious individuals posing as sadhus. Pilgrims are urged to check weather updates and follow guidelines for a safe journey.

Speculation about Kannada star Yash's film 'Toxic' being shelved has been debunked. Yash clarified the movie is complete but its release is postponed for a global rollout strategy, aiming for wider international reach. The decision stems from positive feedback at CinemaCon, emphasizing a worldwide release to elevate Indian cinema.

France, during its G7 presidency, will advocate for a significant overhaul of the Development Assistance Committee metrics that govern global development aid. Minister Eleonore Caroit highlighted the inadequacy of current income-based criteria, particularly for vulnerable small island nations facing climate change impacts. The proposed reforms aim to ensure aid is more effectively targeted and sustainable.

A Special Court in Panchkula discharged former Judge Sudhir Parmar and four others in a corruption case. The court found the prosecution failed to present legally admissible evidence. Electronic evidence like audio recordings and WhatsApp chats were deemed inadmissible. Allegations of judicial favouritism and quid pro quo arrangements were dismissed. This order halts criminal proceedings against the accused.

A 33-year-old Mumbai car dealer was arrested for performing a dangerous birthday stunt, setting a public road on fire to create a social media reel. The act, which damaged the road surface, sparked outrage and drew criticism from public figures and netizens alike. Police registered an FIR and booked the man under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita.

A tribal man in Keonjhar, Odisha, carried his sister's skeleton to a bank to withdraw funds. He was allegedly asked for proof of death. The incident sparked political debate with the BJD criticizing administrative failure. An inquiry has been ordered. The man received financial aid and necessary certificates.

Few entertainment releases carry the weight of Grand Theft Auto VI. Its predecessor, Grand Theft Auto V, remains one of the best-selling games of all time, generating billions in revenue over more than a decade.

Superstar Joseph Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) enters the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, introducing a significant third dimension to the DMK-AIADMK rivalry. Vijay's massive fan following and anti-establishment stance offer a compelling alternative, but his party's solo gamble faces challenges in building grassroots strength against established parties.