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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

'RSS-driven exercise full of mischief': Congress slams rewriting of textbooks amid NCERT row

The Congress on Thursday backed the Supreme Courts strong reaction to references on judicial corruption in an NCERT Class 8 textbook, calling the courts anger justified. The party alleged that textbook revisions over the past decade were an RSS-driven exercise marked by mischief and malice. The apex court imposed a blanket ban on the book, ordered seizure of copies, and sought explanations from officials, while NCERT apologised and withdrew the text.

26 Feb 2026 1:54 pm
West Bengal assembly polls: 240 CAPF companies to arrive by March 1, Purba Medinipur gets highest deployment

Ahead of the West Bengal assembly polls, 240 central armed police force companies will be deployed across key districts by March 1, with Purba Medinipur, Kolkata, and Malda seeing the highest presence. The move, part of a two-phase 480-company deployment, aims to ensure election security, smooth polling, and EVM and strong room protection.

26 Feb 2026 1:43 pm
Nvidia CEO makes big remark on AI threat to software companies, Jensen Huang claims 'I think the markets got it...'

After the mammoth chip Nvidia posted a strong revenue, CEO Jensen Huang pushed back against the idea that so-called agentic AI will cannibalise the software industry. The tech titan said the markets got it wrong. He said AI agents will rely on existing software tools to get work done, not eliminate them.

26 Feb 2026 1:37 pm
Pune Porsche accident: SC notice to Maharashtra govt on bail plea filed by key accused's father

The Supreme Court has asked the Maharashtra government for its response on a bail plea. This plea is from the father of the minor involved in the 2024 Pune Porsche accident. The accident tragically killed two IT professionals. The court previously granted bail to three other accused in the case. The matter is now scheduled for further hearing.

26 Feb 2026 1:34 pm
Eligible manufacturer-importers to get duty deferment facility from March

Revenue department to roll out 30-day customs duty deferral for eligible manufacturer-importers from next month to boost liquidity and manufacturing activity.

26 Feb 2026 1:34 pm
Tamil Nadu BJP President accuses DMK of misappropriating central schemes, forms NDA for 2026 elections

Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran accused the DMK regime of misleading voters by taking undue credit for welfare schemes funded by the central government. He confirmed that the NDA would face the 2026 assembly elections under the leadership of Edappadi K Palaniswami.

26 Feb 2026 1:33 pm
Testing ground India: MNCs are writing their global playbooks here

India has transitioned from a high-growth emerging market to a crucial innovation hub for global retailers and FMCG companies. Its diverse consumer base and intense competition serve as a live laboratory, stress-testing business models and products before their export to other markets worldwide.

26 Feb 2026 1:31 pm
Kerala Karunya Plus KN-612 results (February 26, 2026): Lucky winner to claim 1 crore

Kerala Lottery Results Live Today: Kerala State Lotteries Department is set to conduct the high-stakes draw for the Karunya Plus KN-612 weekly lottery today, February 26, 2026. The event, held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, features a grand first prize of 1 crore.

26 Feb 2026 1:28 pm
Australian Sharemarket: S&P/ASX 200 ends day near 9,200 milestone, closes at record high for second day running, miners, health and tech drive surge; check top gainers and losers

The Australian sharemarket hit a fresh all-time high for the second consecutive day, propelled by strong performances from mining, healthcare, and technology sectors. Buoyant earnings and rising commodity prices fueled the rally, with the S&P/ASX 200 closing up. Miners and healthcare majors, in particular, saw significant gains, while Qantas faced headwinds.

26 Feb 2026 1:11 pm
Drger India collaborates with Breach Candy Hospital to advance clinical education

Drger India and Breach Candy Hospital have partnered to enhance clinical education and skill development for healthcare professionals. This collaboration brings the Drger Medical Academy to Mumbai, offering digital learning modules and VR-based simulation training to bridge skill gaps and improve patient safety. The initiative aims to foster continuous learning and readiness in India's evolving healthcare landscape.

26 Feb 2026 1:09 pm
'BJP will win West Bengal polls, drive out every single infiltrator,' Amit Shah claims

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is confident of a BJP victory in West Bengal assembly elections. He stated that upon forming the government, the party will remove all infiltrators from the state. Shah also indicated that this process would begin in Bihar's Seemanchal region. He emphasized that infiltration poses a threat to national security and demographic balance.

26 Feb 2026 1:08 pm
India slams Pakistans echo chamber politics at UN meet, says critics living in La-La Land

India has strongly refuted Pakistan's claims regarding Jammu and Kashmir at the UN Human Rights Council. New Delhi termed Pakistan's allegations as propaganda and accused Islamabad of misusing international forums. India reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India.

26 Feb 2026 1:08 pm
Who is Raj Shamani's mystery guest tonight? Online buzz over first time ever on an Indian podcast hint sparks frenzy. After Macron and Vijay Mallya, can you guess who's next?

Indian podcaster Raj Shamani, in a series of Instagram stories, dropped a hint about a mystery guest coming tonight on his podcast. Though he did not reveal the name of the guest, he said that you are not ready for tonight's guest which has sparked speculation among his fans. He also revealed that the guest is coming first time ever on an Indian podcast.

26 Feb 2026 12:56 pm
Tanmay Bhats hiring form goes viral: You can get the job if you can answer controversial opinions and the meaning of life?

Comedian Tanmay Bhat, known for AIB roast, is making waves online with a creative job application for his second YouTube channel. The form asks unusual questions about controversial opinions and the meaning of life. It also sought candidates with insight into business, startups, and pop culture.

26 Feb 2026 12:55 pm
ED Director Rahul Navin to visit Chennai, review important cases

ED Director Rahul Navin is visiting Chennai this weekend. He will review ongoing investigations in Tamil Nadu. This includes high-profile cases. One such case involves state minister K N Nehru. Navin will meet officers and discuss money laundering and foreign exchange violation cases. The visit comes ahead of assembly polls in the state.

26 Feb 2026 12:45 pm
Holashtak 2026: Start and end dates, dos and donts, and spiritual significance explained

As Holi approaches, Hindus observe Holashtak, an eight-day period from February 24 to March 3, 2026, considered inauspicious for new beginnings. Devotees focus on prayer, discipline, and preparations for Holika Dahan, emphasizing spiritual growth and self-reflection over new ventures. This phase highlights devotion and self-control before the vibrant Holi festivities.

26 Feb 2026 12:28 pm
NDA alliance seat sharing talks set post Narendra Modi's visit to Tamil Nadu, says Nainar Nagendran

Seat-sharing talks for Tamil Nadu's upcoming state polls will commence after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit on March 1. The Bharatiya Janata Party chief emphasized alliance coordination for the state's future. The Prime Minister's visit includes engagements in Puducherry and Madurai. The National Democratic Alliance aims to contest the elections against the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.

26 Feb 2026 12:27 pm
Nehru vs Modi: Congress rekindles Israel debate after PM's Knesset speech

Congress has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech to the Israeli Parliament. The party stated the address was an unabashed defense of Benjamin Netanyahu. They also highlighted Jawaharlal Nehru's earlier views on the creation of Israel. An Israeli lawyer also criticized the speech. The Congress believes the address diminished India's moral standing.

26 Feb 2026 12:25 pm
Gurgaon Noida RRTS route approved: Check stations and areas it will connect in Gurugram, Faridabad and Noida

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced the final alignment approval for the 64-km GurugramFaridabadNoidaGreater Noida Namo Bharat RRTS-cum-Metro Corridor. This project aims to connect major economic hubs, offering faster travel and reduced congestion for lakhs of commuters across the NCR.

26 Feb 2026 12:20 pm
PM Modi visits Israeli tech innovation exhibition, invites firms to invest in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited an innovation exhibition in Israel. He invited Israeli technology companies to invest in India. He urged them to partner with India's talented youth. The exhibition showcased advancements in AI, healthcare, and agriculture. This visit strengthens India-Israel innovation and technology ties. Both nations aim to build solutions for global challenges.

26 Feb 2026 12:18 pm
RBI's additional liquidity support to wind down after March, bankers say

The RBIs recent liquidity infusion, which has pushed overnight rates below the repo rate to ease funding stress, is seen by bankers as a temporary, tactical move rather than a policy shift. With surplus liquidity rising above comfort levels and short-term rates cooling, the central bank is expected to maintain this stance only until March before likely absorbing excess cash and restoring its usual liquidity framework.

26 Feb 2026 12:14 pm
PlayStation Plus monthly games for March: PGA Tour 2K25 and more titles announced

PlayStation Plus March 2026 games: The transition into the spring gaming season is looking exceptionally strong for Sony enthusiasts as the PlayStation Plus lineup for March 2026 brings a massive wave of content across multiple genres. Whether you are looking to master professional golf courses, embark on a sprawling multiplayer odyssey, or hunt legendary monsters inspired by Japanese folklore, this month's selection ensures there is something for every type of player.

26 Feb 2026 12:14 pm
From freeze to thaw: India-Canada relations hit reset button with Carney's visit

A year after ties froze over the Nijjar controversy, Canada is quietly changing tone as Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to land in India with a reset agenda dialling down past allegations, and pivoting toward trade, tech, and energy partnerships.

26 Feb 2026 12:08 pm
What is Aspergillus fungus? Two dead, four seriously ill as fungal infection cluster engulfs major Sydney hospital, authorities launch probe; all you need to know

A massive tragedy struck Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred Hospital as a fungal outbreak claimed two lives and left four critically ill. Investigations point to the hospital's extensive redevelopment as a potential cause for the Aspergillus infections. The transplant ward was temporarily closed for deep cleaning and air quality improvements before reopening.

26 Feb 2026 12:08 pm
Nitin Gadkari flags 5 lakh road accidents a year, says behaviour change key to saving lives

India records almost five lakh road accident deaths yearly. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted that changing public behaviour and enforcing traffic laws are major hurdles. Overspeeding, not wearing helmets, and seatbelt non-usage contribute significantly to fatalities. The government is focusing on road engineering, vehicle safety, and stricter enforcement to combat this crisis.

26 Feb 2026 12:07 pm
'I love you mummy...': Ex-YouTuber Bonu Komali, 20, texts mother in Kuwait, found dead at her Hyderabad house

Ex-YouTuber Bonu Komali was found dead at her rented flat in Hyderabad. An undergraduate student who was pursuing BSc, dropped a text to her mother and asked her to take care of her younger brother. Later on, she was found hanging from a ceiling fan. Her mother revealed a prior suicide attempt because a software employee allegedly rejected her advances.

26 Feb 2026 12:06 pm
'Political Theatrics': Mayawati slams Samajwadi Party's PDA day

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati has accused the Samajwadi Party of political theatrics. She stated the SP has historically opposed Dalits, OBCs, and the Bahujan community. Mayawati alleged the SP's move to observe 'PDA Day' on Kanshi Ram's birth anniversary is an attempt to gain votes.

26 Feb 2026 12:00 pm
AIIMS NORCET 10 registration opens at aiimsexams.ac.in; Check last date, steps to apply, eligibility criteria, application fee and more

AIIMS has opened registrations for NORCET 10, with the application deadline set for March 16, 2026. The recruitment process includes a Preliminary Exam on April 11, 2026, and a Mains Exam on April 30, 2026. Eligibility requires a B.Sc. Nursing, Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing, or GNM qualification, with an age limit of 18-30 years.

26 Feb 2026 11:58 am
Social media buzz over TMC MP Mouma Maitreyas post on electoral roll observer Murugan

A heated exchange erupted on social media between Mahua Moitra, Trinamool Congress MP, and Electoral Roll Observer C S Murugan over allegations concerning the role of micro-observers in electoral roll revisions. The controversy began on 18 February when Moitra accused Murugan of overstepping his mandate by sending incorrect directions to micro-observers via WhatsApp, sharing a post referencing a film character and dubbing him 'Quick Gun Murugan.'

26 Feb 2026 11:50 am
Samsung S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra vs iPhone 17 Pro Max: Price, camera, display, battery, performance and more compared

Samsung S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra vs Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: Following the global launch of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, the premium smartphone market has entered a new phase of competition. This comparison breaks down the hardware specifications, camera systems, battery capacities, and pricing of the Galaxy S26 Ultra against its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and its primary competitor, the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max.

26 Feb 2026 11:39 am
March 2026 Festive Calendar: Complete list of Major festivals from Holi to Gudi Padwa and more; check dates here

March 2026 promises a vibrant Hindu calendar. The month begins with Holi, the festival of colours, followed by Rang Panchami. Devotees will celebrate the Hindu New Year with Gudi Padwa and Ugadi. Chaitra Navratri and Rama Navami mark significant religious observances.

26 Feb 2026 11:39 am
Ajit Pawar plane crash: Rohit Pawar, cousin approach Baramati police against aircraft operator VSR Ventures

Ajit Pawar plane crash: NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar and his cousin Yugendra Pawar approached Baramati police seeking an FIR against aircraft operator VSR Ventures over the January 28 crash that killed Ajit Pawar, citing alleged criminal negligence flagged by the DGCA and accusing authorities of delaying action.

26 Feb 2026 11:39 am
Name of newly launched political party will be officially announced within a week: V K Sasikala

V. K. Sasikala will reveal her new political party's name within a week. She aims for her outfit to play a significant role in the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections. Sasikala recently unveiled a new party flag, marking her return to politics after a hiatus.

26 Feb 2026 11:36 am
AIADMKs Rs 10,000 pledge vs DMKs Rs 5,000: Edappadi K Palaniswami sharpens poll pitch

Tamil Nadu Polls: AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami pitched his partys promise of Rs 10,000 one-time relief to families as a stronger alternative to the DMK governments Rs 5,000 payout, accusing Chief Minister M K Stalin of burdening people with inflation and higher taxes and timing welfare disbursals out of fear of defeat ahead of the Assembly elections.

26 Feb 2026 11:31 am
India vs Zimbabwe T20 World Cup: Anil Kumble warns Suryakumar & team to be at their best as Zimbabwe test looms

India vs Zimbabwe: India faces Zimbabwe in a crucial T20 World Cup Super Eight match. Former player Anil Kumble warned against complacency, highlighting Zimbabwe's strong performances. India must play aggressively and convert starts into substantial scores. Rinku Singh is set to rejoin the squad. India is aiming for a win to improve semi-final chances.

26 Feb 2026 11:26 am
'Seems like a calculated move': SC says might take down NCERT excerpts on 'judicial corruption'

Taking suo motu cognisance, a Supreme Court bench led by CJI Surya Kant slammed objectionable excerpts on judicial corruption in an NCERT Class 8 textbook. Terming it a well-planned conspiracy to undermine the judiciary's dignity, the court warned that those responsible would not go scot-free. Following the backlash, NCERT issued a public apology and committed to rewriting the controversial chapter to ensure the institution's reputation remains protected.

26 Feb 2026 11:24 am
Karma is real: Elon Musks cryptic message to Bill Gates after X post on Tesla short sellers goes viral

Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Bill Gates are once again at odds. This time, Musk, the world's richest man, reacted to a post on X Tesla linking short sellers to those lacking ethics and morality. He was reacting to a report that said Bill Gates admitted to having affairs with two Russian women. Musk responded that Karma is real.

26 Feb 2026 11:18 am
Billionaires eye Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals in high-stakes IPL auction race; Blitzer joins bidding war

Global investors are vying for a majority stake in Indian Premier League cricket teams. Billionaire David Blitzer is reportedly in advanced talks for Royal Challengers Bengaluru or Rajasthan Royals. Avram Glazer, co-owner of Manchester United, has also submitted initial bids. Indian tycoons Adar Poonawalla and Ranjan Pai are also interested in the Bengaluru franchise. Final bids are expected by mid-March.

26 Feb 2026 11:17 am
US presses missile issue as new Iran talks to open in Geneva

The United States and Iran are set for indirect talks in Geneva aimed at easing tensions and preventing fresh conflict amid escalating rhetoric and military posturing. Disputes centre on Irans nuclear programme, missile capabilities and US sanctions. While President Trump has issued stern warnings, both sides signal cautious optimism. Iranian officials call the negotiations a historic opportunity, though regional fears persist that failure could trigger a wider war.

26 Feb 2026 11:03 am
Whats Indias game plan against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash? A look at the qualification and NRR scenario

India's Super 8 campaign faces a critical juncture against Zimbabwe, where a significant victory is paramount to overcome a negative net run rate. Following a heavy defeat to South Africa, the team must not only win but do so convincingly, with a fast chase or a large margin of victory being crucial for tournament survival.

26 Feb 2026 11:03 am
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra price, privacy display, camera, battery, availability in India and other details

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra launch: Samsung has officially launched its most advanced flagship to date, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, alongside its siblings in the S26 series. Unveiled at the Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco, the Ultra model introduces a world-first built-in Privacy Display that secures personal data at the pixel level.

26 Feb 2026 11:01 am
Canadian PM Mark Carney to visit India from February 27 to March 2; MEA releases full schedule

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit India from February 27 to March 2, 2026, on his first official trip, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He will begin in Mumbai with business meetings and interactions with CEOs, investors and industry leaders, before heading to New Delhi for delegation-level talks with Modi at Hyderabad House.

26 Feb 2026 10:56 am
Quote of the Day on fearlessness by Hugh Jackman: With age, you see people fail more, you see yourself

Hugh Jackman, renowned for his diverse roles, shares a profound insight on aging. He acknowledges that with age comes increased awareness of failure, both in others and oneself. Jackman emphasizes that maintaining a childlike fearlessness is achieved by persisting, not by avoiding mistakes, but by continuing to move forward despite them.

26 Feb 2026 10:46 am