The Economic Times

Mumbai plumber income: A Mumbai plumber has astonished netizens by earning Rs 18 lakh annually through contracts, owning a Hyundai Creta, and investing in property and farmland. This revelation highlights the significant earning potential and continued demand for skilled blue-collar trades, which are less susceptible to automation and AI.

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister, is spearheading an innovative waste-to-road initiative across India. By repurposing municipal waste for highway construction, this project significantly lessens the strain on our natural resources. The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway showcases this groundbreaking strategy, aiming not only to mitigate long-standing waste issues but also to foster eco-friendly infrastructure for the future.

Despite ongoing debate, medications such as Ozempic continue to rank among the most commonly prescribed treatments for weight management and diabetes in the United States. Health policy estimates indicate that more than 31 million American adults are currently using GLP-1 drugs.

The Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Selection Test Class 6 Result 2026 is out. Candidates can check their status on navodaya.gov.in. The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti has released the selection list. Students need their roll number and date of birth. Selected students must complete document verification for admission to the residential school network.

A parliamentary panel has urged the Department of Economic Affairs to create an energy mitigation framework. It also called for a national strategy for critical minerals and streamlining FDI rules. The panel wants states to move away from revenue deficit grants. Reforms are suggested for fiscal prudence and transparency in off-budget borrowings.

Why are US stock market index futures down today, and Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq in red now remains linked to oil prices near $100, inflation concerns, and Federal Reserve outlook. Investors track Middle East conflict, interest rate signals, and stock-specific moves across technology, energy, and travel sectors.

India's career advice to become a doctor or engineer is being challenged. Celebrity hairstylist Jawed Habib highlights that the country's barbering workforce is vast and financially rewarding. He suggests this sector employs more people than doctors and engineers combined. Despite its scale, the profession faces social stigma. Habib advocates for greater respect for hairdressing as a skilled career.

A new bill in the US Senate demands proof of citizenship for new voters. President Donald Trump believes this will secure Republican victories in upcoming elections. Democrats oppose the bill, fearing it will disenfranchise millions. The legislation also proposes stricter voter ID laws and federal access to state voter rolls. Implementation would be immediate if passed.

Jawed Habib attributes widespread hair loss in young people to poor scalp hygiene and lifestyle habits, not hair products. He advocates for daily hair washing and a diet rich in natural ingredients like water, milk, ghee, lentils, and green vegetables for healthier hair.

Israel has claimed it killed Irans top security official Ali Larijani in recent airstrikes, a move that could reshape Tehrans power structure. A long-time strategist and influential conservative leader, Larijani came from a powerful political dynasty once likened to the Kennedys of Iran. His reported death comes amid escalating conflict and heightened regional tensions.

A parliamentary panel has urged an immediate review of the Employees' Pension Scheme 1995's minimum monthly pension. The current Rs 1,000 is deemed insufficient for basic needs. Pensioners have demanded an increase to Rs 7,500. The committee also recommended improvements for contractual and gig workers' social security.

The Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana has empowered numerous small entrepreneurs. Over Rs 39 lakh crore has been sanctioned since its launch. Non-performing assets remain low at approximately 2 percent. The scheme supports new and women entrepreneurs significantly. Banks are actively recovering outstanding loans through various measures.

As West Bengal gears up for assembly elections, the Trinamool Congress announced its candidate list, a critical exercise to maintain dominance after 15 years. The party focused on balancing experience with youth, analyzing local equations and feedback to counter anti-incumbency and ensure winnability for a potential fourth consecutive mandate.

Tamil Nadu is bracing for rain and thunderstorms today, with light to moderate showers expected in the Western Ghats and southern regions. Similar weather is forecast for the delta districts and southern Tamil Nadu on Wednesday and Thursday. Meanwhile, Karnataka is experiencing localized thunderstorms, and Telangana is on alert for heavy rainfall and strong winds from March 17-20.

A parliamentary panel urged the government to finalize a 'golden share' strategy to protect PSU autonomy as state stakes fall below 51%. Recommendations also include enhancing MoU frameworks, prioritizing vacant officer positions, and developing a roadmap for InvITs and REITs. The committee stressed bridging revenue gaps and optimizing debt management for economic stability and growth.

President Donald Trump champions a new election security bill. This legislation mandates proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration and requires photo identification for all ballots. Critics argue these measures may prevent eligible Americans from voting. The bill also seeks to give the Department of Homeland Security access to voter rolls. Additional amendments address transgender issues and mail-in voting restrictions.

The Iran war intensifies with ongoing strikes and defiant rhetoric. However, behind the scenes, quiet diplomacy is emerging. Allies are hesitant to join US-led efforts to secure vital waterways. Gulf states are urging caution but not direct military involvement.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has rejected proposals for a ceasefire with the United States. This comes as hostilities escalate in the ongoing conflict. Iran's stance on retaliation against the US and Israel is described as very tough and serious.

Gurgaon News: A shocking incident unfolded in Gurugram where a private school operator allegedly jumped from the 23rd floor of a residential building with his two-year-old daughter. The man, identified as Rahul Vijayran, was reportedly suffering from vision loss and emotional distress. Both victims were declared dead at the hospital. Police are investigating the circumstances, and the family has declined legal action.

President Trump's push for a voter citizenship proof law faces hurdles. The SAVE America Act could impact his own supporters. Many eligible voters lack easy access to required documents. Rural and married voters may face registration challenges. The bill's passage is uncertain amid Democratic opposition and internal Republican debate.

A Pakistani air strike in Afghanistan has intensified conflict between the two nations. Kabul reports hundreds of civilian deaths, while Islamabad states the strike targeted militant infrastructure. This follows weeks of cross-border air and ground attacks. Miltancy and accusations of safe havens strain relations. Diplomatic efforts are urged but no negotiations are underway.

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has allowed Shabir Ahmed Shah, a prominent figure in Kashmiri separatism, to post bail after serving over eight years behind bars for allegations tied to terror financing. The judges emphasized the sluggish pace of the trial and Shah's extended time spent in detention.

Adani Enterprises secured National Company Law Tribunal approval for its resolution plan for Jaiprakash Associates. The tribunal issued an oral order on March 17, 2026, with detailed disclosures to follow upon the written order. Adani Enterprises was previously named the successful bidder for the stressed firm.

The Election Commission has deployed 1,111 observers for the upcoming state assembly elections and bypolls. These observers will act as the eyes and ears of the EC. They will ensure elections are conducted freely and fairly. Observers will be stationed in their constituencies by Thursday. They will make contact details public and set daily meeting times.

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz announced the killing of Iran's security chief Ali Larijani in an Israeli strike. This development, if confirmed, would represent a significant loss for Iran. Larijani, a former nuclear negotiator and close associate of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, was recently seen at public rallies.

India's LPG supply is a concern due to the West Asia conflict. Despite this, domestic supplies are stable, and no distributor has reported shortages. Panic bookings are straining the system, but the government is sourcing LPG globally. Maritime logistics are monitored, with Indian vessels safely navigating the region. Alternative fuels are being promoted to ease LPG demand.

Sourav Ganguly joins TMC rumours: Sourav Ganguly has officially quashed rumours of his political entry ahead of West Bengal's upcoming Assembly elections. His office stated these claims are entirely baseless. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India is implementing robust, multi-layered surveillance and deploying over 2,300 CAPF companies per phase to ensure peaceful and transparent polling across the state.

The origins of St. Patricks Day trace back more than a millennium and began as a religious observance. Christians in Ireland started commemorating the feast day of Saint Patrick during the ninth and tenth centuries. The occasion occurred during Lent, a period when many Christians traditionally refrained from certain foods and celebrations.

A Parliamentary panel has urged the Statistics Ministry to use allocated funds wisely. The ministry faces funding shortfalls for key schemes like Support for Statistical Strengthening. The panel advised seeking supplementary funds if necessary. It also recommended developing an integrated digital dashboard for consolidated data. Expediting the National Child Survey and improving the MPLAD Scheme portal were also highlighted.

Congress leader K C Venugopal has challenged Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He demands a clear stand on the Sabarimala women entry issue. Venugopal criticized the state government's stance in the Supreme Court. He also questioned the withdrawal of cases against devotees. The Congress party opposes the entry of women of menstruating age into the temple.

Heavy snowfall stranded thousands of tourists near Himachal Pradesh's Atal Tunnel, with over 1,000 vehicles stuck for nearly 20 hours. Rescue operations by police and BRO successfully evacuated travellers. The region faces continued harsh weather, with further disruptions anticipated, prompting advisories for travellers to avoid high-altitude areas.

India's Supreme Court faces a crisis with over 3,500 public interest litigations pending. Many cases have been stuck for years, some for decades, even outliving original petitioners. Environmental and land issues dominate these delayed cases. The court's capacity is strained by a constant influx of new petitions, exacerbating the judicial backlog and hindering access to justice.

The petroleum ministry has clarified that biometric Aadhaar authentication for LPG customers is only for those who haven't completed e-KYC yet, easing concerns amid the cooking gas crisis. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries need it annually for subsidies, while others who've done it before are exempt. This move aims to enhance transparency and prevent diversion of LPG.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir acknowledged potential missteps in his relationship with senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, admitting human error during his tenure. Despite speculation about a rift, Gambhir emphasized his commitment to honesty and transparent communication within the dressing room, even as the team achieved significant success.

Israel announced the killing of Gholamreza Soleimani, head of Iran's Basij force. This volunteer force is crucial for suppressing protests within Iran. The Israeli military stated Soleimani's forces were responsible for severe violence and arrests during recent demonstrations. Iran has not yet confirmed Soleimani's death. The Basij is described as part of the Iranian terror regime's armed apparatus.

A parliamentary committee wants the mines ministry to speed up plans to make money from gold-rich waste dumps at Bharat Gold Mines Ltd. These dumps in Kolar Gold Fields hold millions of tonnes of material with recoverable gold. The government is exploring options for the closed mine.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb urged India to play a diplomatic role in achieving a ceasefire between the US-Israel bloc and Iran amidst escalating Middle East conflict. Stubb highlighted India's foreign minister's calls for de-escalation and suggested a revamp of the world order with greater influence for nations like India.

Delhi Police are warning residents about a surge in phishing scams targeting LPG cylinder bookings amid West Asian conflict concerns. Scammers are sending fraudulent SMS messages and APK files, urging users to click suspicious links or update KYC details on fake websites. Authorities advise extreme caution and reporting any suspicious activity.

Renault has introduced the new Duster SUV in India. Introductory prices begin at Rs 10.49 lakh. Turbo-petrol variant deliveries start in April 2026. Strong-hybrid buyers will receive their vehicles around November 2026. The R-Pass offers benefits like priority delivery and special pricing. The Duster features a modern cabin with Google built-in and advanced driver assistance systems.

Suryakumar Yadav, India's T20 captain, has achieved an impressive 80% win rate, a stark contrast to his academic struggles. Leading the team to a historic T20 World Cup defense, he has won 42 out of 52 matches since taking captaincy in 2024. Yadav credits his family's unwavering support for his success, proving passion and determination can lead to extraordinary achievements.