The Economic Times

India should reassess the effectiveness of its existing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), modernise its investment screening framework and adopt a more coordinated trade and industrial policy approach as geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation reshape global commerce, according to a report by Koan Advisory Group in association with Chintan Research Foundation, Information Technology Industry Council and Institute of Chinese Studies.

Krishna Chakraborty, a Trinamool Congress leader, has resigned as the mayor of Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation. She cited personal reasons for her decision after serving for 16 years. Chakraborty stated it was her personal choice and she wished to dedicate time to herself. She also expressed a desire to continue working as a councillor.

A software engineer, laid off from Oracle, secured three job offers within 45 days by dedicating hours daily to DSA practice, learning AI engineering from scratch, and consistently applying to 10-15 jobs. This focused approach, combined with system design preparation and an active LinkedIn presence, led to a new role as an AI Engineer.

Pakistan vs Australia 3rd ODI predicted playing 11: Pakistan and Australia meet in a series decider at Gaddafi Stadium after splitting the first two ODIs. The Lahore pitch is expected to favor spinners, and a high chance of rain looms over the final match. Pakistan holds a slight win probability edge.

India is boosting domestic manufacturing. Six expert groups will identify 100 products to reduce import dependence. This initiative aims to promote local production for both Indian and global markets. The move also seeks to curb foreign exchange outflow. These groups will submit their final list within three weeks. This will strengthen India's economy.

SEBI has barred Rajesh Exports promoter and CEO Rajesh Mehta from trading securities. The regulator alleges a gigantic scam involving misrepresentation of revenues and fund diversion. LIC holds a significant stake in Rajesh Exports, raising questions about its acquisition. Investigations are ongoing, and a new forensic auditor will be appointed.

Global investors see India as a strong long-term investment choice; despite market ups and downs, confidence in India's economy remains high, says BofA India CEO Sahu. According to him, manufacturing expansion offers significant investment potential.

Rahul Gandhi's helicopter visit to Almora was cut short by bad weather. He later addressed a rally by phone. Gandhi criticized the central government, alleging exploitation of Uttarakhand's resources and dismantling of economic protections. He spoke about household savings, GST impact on small businesses, foreign policy constraints, and weakened farmer protections. The visit was part of his two-day tour.

India spin great Ravichandran Ashwin is keen to see Harsh Dubey debut against Afghanistan. Dubey's strong domestic and IPL performances make him a contender. Kuldeep Yadav will lead the spin attack, supported by Washington Sundar. Captain Shubman Gill is expected to perform well at home after technical adjustments. Gill's success is crucial for India's Test team future.

After spending nearly two years at the same company, a man says quitting his job led to an unexpected realization about happiness. In a post reflecting on life without a salary, he explained how a steady paycheck had quietly become tied to his sense of security, confidence and daily decisions. But stepping away from work made him question whether financial stability alone was making him happy.

Bank of America is strengthening its India operations. Anshul Gupta joins from Avendus Capital to lead the investment banking division. This move signals a renewed focus on India's booming financial market. Global banks are actively competing for a larger share of deals. Gupta's expertise is expected to boost Bank of America's dealmaking capabilities in the region.

The Congress party has accused the Modi government of pushing a political agenda with the CBSE's three-language formula. They claim the move disrupts academic calendars and student futures. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is called a political hack who must resign. This follows recent controversies surrounding the CBSE's on-screen marking system and alleged corruption.

India's central bank, the RBI, confronts a new inflation challenge. Rising oil prices and supply disruptions threaten to undo recent progress. Policymakers are now considering a potential rate hike. This comes as the monsoon forecast also raises concerns about food prices. The RBI's focus shifts to managing inflation expectations amidst global uncertainties.

Former West Bengal sports minister Aroop Biswas has requested a two-week delay to appear before police. He faces accusations of black-marketing tickets, extortion, and cheating related to the Lionel Messi event. The organiser alleges Biswas used his position to influence the programme. The event itself saw chaos and vandalism. Biswas cited ill health for his inability to attend the summons.

Airline leaders meet in Rio de Janeiro facing a major industry crisis. The Iran war is increasing jet fuel costs and disrupting flights. This is forcing airlines to raise fares and cut routes. Experts predict a downgrade to profit forecasts. Aircraft delivery delays and climate goals also present challenges. The situation impacts airlines globally, with some struggling more than others.

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has warned of enemy attempts to divide the nation. He stated that after battlefield failures, adversaries are now targeting public resilience. Khamenei urged for national unity against these threats. He emphasized that actions causing public pessimism aid the enemy. This message was delivered during ceremonies marking significant anniversaries.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said India will continue to be the world's fastest-growing economy for the next two decades, highlighting the country's ability to convert crises into opportunities and attract long-term global investments.

Rajesh Exports Limited has denied allegations of revenue inflation made by SEBI. The company stated that the regulator's order is interim and its declared revenues are accurate. Rajesh Exports believes there is a communication gap and is providing all necessary documents to SEBI for clarification. SEBI's investigation uncovered evidence suggesting significant revenue inflation.

Delhi University introduces a new fee refund policy for NEP 2020. This policy covers the four-year undergraduate program and multiple entry-exit options. Students withdrawing within 30 days get a full refund. PhD scholars also have a dedicated refund framework. These changes begin from the 2026-27 academic session, offering clearer guidelines for students.

The Delhi government has announced financial aid for victims of the Malviya Nagar fire. Families of the 21 deceased will receive Rs 10 lakh. Those seriously injured will get Rs 5 lakh. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited injured individuals at Max Saket hospital. Officials are ensuring best treatment and assistance for all affected. Arrangements are underway to transport mortal remains.

A devastating fire swept through a guest house in Malviya Nagar, claiming 21 lives and injuring 20. The blaze, possibly ignited by a gas cylinder or air conditioner, spread rapidly through the building. Many victims succumbed to smoke inhalation. Authorities are investigating the incident and have arrested the owner. Rescue efforts faced challenges due to narrow lanes.

Monsoon update: Southwest monsoon has arrived in Kerala, signalling the start of India's crucial four-month rainy season. Southern and western India, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra, are bracing for intense showers, strong winds, and potential travel disruptions. Travellers are urged to monitor weather forecasts closely for advisories impacting flights, trains, and road journeys.

NEET re-exam 2026 city intimation slip, admit card date: Students preparing for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination will soon receive their exam city details from the National Testing Agency. The city intimation slip will be released shortly on the official website. This slip will inform candidates about their assigned examination city, allowing them to plan their travel and accommodation.

Anita Bishnoi News: A Jodhpur social media influencer, Anita Dinram Bishnoi, is in critical condition after allegedly consuming poison during an Instagram Live session. The incident followed days of online trolling and harassment linked to her content. Bishnoi had previously spoken out about facing threats and damaging of her reputation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Gujarat and Daman on Friday. He will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for development projects valued at approximately Rs 22,000 crore. These initiatives aim to strengthen infrastructure, boost tourism, and create employment. The Prime Minister will also launch projects worth around Rs 18,800 crore in Surat and Rs 2,970 crore in Daman.

Pakistan's Lahore High Court has upheld the death sentences for two men convicted in a brutal 2020 gang-rape case. The horrific attack on a French-Pakistani woman and her children on a motorway sparked national outrage. Billionaire Elon Musk's praised the verdict and hailed Pakistan, saying that this is what should be done in the West.

Nagaland State Lottery Sambad Dear Thursday Weekly draw results for 4 June 2026 have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 Crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards. Full list of winning numbers here.

The Federal Reserve's interest rate forecasts, known as the dot plot, might be removed. This change could signal a shift in policy under the new Fed chair. Markets will need to interpret his approach to inflation. Investors may face a more unpredictable interest rate market. The economy is experiencing an AI boom and energy price pressures.

A new study reveals that masturbation in birds is a natural and widespread behavior, challenging the long-held belief that it's solely a sign of poor captive conditions. Researchers found the behavior occurs across 120 species, even more frequently in wild birds, suggesting an evolutionary role rather than a welfare issue.

The Indian government is set to introduce new rules for edible oil packaging. This move aims to standardize pack sizes, making it easier for consumers to compare prices. Manufacturers believe this will lead to fairer competition and better transparency. The initiative also focuses on sustainable packaging practices. Consumers will benefit from clearer choices and increased confidence in packaged edible oils.

Taiwan is boosting its missile power to over 1,800 by 2029. This move aims to deter a potential Chinese invasion or blockade. The island is adopting an asymmetric strategy, using numerous affordable yet potent weapons. This includes missiles and drones to counter China's military might. Taiwan seeks to build a resilient defense capable of striking invasion fleets.

Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir criticised on Thursday a ceasefire deal with Lebanon brokered by Washington, calling it a serious mistake. The ceasefire with Lebanon is a serious mistake and the pipe dreams of advisers are dragging the prime minister (Benjamin Netanyahu) to wrong decisions, the minister wrote on X. Israel and Lebanon agreed Wednesday to implement a ceasefire but said it would require a complete cessation of fire by Iran-backed Hezbollah, according t

The southwest monsoon has arrived in Kerala. This marks the beginning of India's crucial four-month rainy season. However, forecasts indicate below-normal rainfall for the 2026 season. El Nio conditions may also emerge, impacting water supplies and agriculture. This situation raises concerns for crop output and rural demand across the nation.

Lavkesh Bajaj hotel owner: A devastating fire at Flourish Stay B&B in Malviya Nagar claimed 21 lives. Owner Lavkesh Bajaj is now under investigation. Authorities are probing alleged fire safety norm violations and licensing issues. The establishment reportedly operated with more rooms than permitted and lacked proper safety clearances. Legal experts suggest culpable homicide charges are possible if negligence is proven.

Thirty-seven years ago, China's military violently ended pro-democracy protests in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. The government has never released a full death toll, with estimates ranging into the thousands. This event, marked by student-led demonstrations and a government crackdown, remains a sensitive topic in China. Landmark dates leading up to the crackdown are detailed.

A dual Iranian-American tech executive, Jamshid Ghomi, was arrested at his $35 million mansion for allegedly running an illegal export operation. Authorities claim he routed sensitive US technology to Iran for over a decade, with his tax filings showing minimal income despite millions in international transactions. The investigation highlights a complex smuggling network and financial laundering system.

A Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet made its first landing at Navi Mumbai International Airport. This event marks a significant milestone for the airport. The fighter jet's arrival demonstrates the Indian Air Force's growing capabilities. The airport, inaugurated in October 2025, is now operational. This landing follows earlier trials with other aircraft.

Quote of the day by Arnold Schwarzenegger: Arnold Schwarzenegger's remarkable journey began with bodybuilding, where he won Mr. Olympia seven times. He then transitioned to Hollywood, becoming a global action star. Schwarzenegger later entered politics, serving as Governor of California, demonstrating his ambition and willingness to embrace new challenges throughout his influential career.

The Supreme Court has deemed the Wrestling Federation of India's plea against a Delhi High Court order infructuous. The High Court had allowed wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in selection trials. The Supreme Court stated it was not reiterating the High Court's findings. All issues remain open. Phogat participated in the trials but did not succeed.

Fans attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup will not be allowed to bring reusable water bottles into stadiums. FIFA cited safety concerns for this last-minute change. This decision aligns with existing rules at some venues. Hydration will be available inside stadiums, with pricing consistent with other events. Host cities are implementing measures to manage heat for spectators.

Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the alleged suicide of a NEET aspirant. Gandhi stated that India's youth are suffering due to the Prime Minister's alleged damage to the education system over the last 12 years. The NEET-UG examination faced cancellation amid paper leak allegations. A re-examination is scheduled for June 21.