The Economic Times

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has clarified rules on religious symbols in educational institutions. Saffron shawls will not be permitted. However, practices like hijab, turbans, rudraksha beads, and sacred threads that are already in existence will continue to be allowed. This order applies to all educational levels up to Class 12. The Chief Minister also commented on the NEET examination controversy.

Money Heist teaser: For many viewers, The Professor remains the emotional and intellectual core of Money Heist. Although the original series officially concluded in 2021, the characters appearance in Netflixs latest teaser suggests the platform may not be finished exploring the franchises central mythology.

European Union envoys met with senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Salman Khurshid. The discussions focused on the strong EU-India strategic partnership. Evolving Indian and global geopolitical dynamics were also a key topic. This meeting is part of the EU's engagement with Indian political parties.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis arrived at Vidhan Bhavan on a motorcycle. This action is part of new austerity measures. These measures aim to cut fuel consumption. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had appealed for fuel conservation. State minister Nitesh Rane also walked to the Mantralaya. The government is reviewing vehicle usage and cancelling foreign tours.

The Bar Council of India has asked the West Bengal Bar Council for a report. This report concerns Mamata Banerjee's lawyer enrolment and practice status. She appeared in court recently in lawyer's attire. The Council needs details on her enrolment and practice during and after her chief minister tenure.

The United States is easing travel rules for World Cup fans. Foreign visitors from countries that qualified for the tournament and bought tickets will no longer need to pay large visa bonds. This change applies to citizens from Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Tunisia.

Chris Wood will lead New Zealand's football team at the World Cup. The squad aims to make history by securing their first-ever win. Wood, a prolific striker, expressed confidence in the team's ability to compete. The tournament begins next month. New Zealand faces Iran, Egypt, and Belgium in Group G.

Pakistan has successfully test-fired its indigenously developed Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile. This advanced weapon system is designed for long-range precision targeting.

Chennai Super Kings have signed Dian Forrester as a replacement for injured Jamie Overton. Forrester, a South African all-rounder, joins CSK for Rs 75 lakh. He made his international debut in March 2026. CSK hopes Forrester will contribute with bat and ball as the tournament enters its crucial phase. The team is currently fifth and faces Lucknow Super Giants next.

Russia launched its largest aerial assault over a two-day period, striking Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities with hundreds of drones and missiles. The attacks caused significant damage to infrastructure, including residential buildings, and resulted in at least 11 deaths. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy urged continued Western support for air defense.

Trump left JD Vance a secret 'If I Die' letter before his China trip, and the story is chilling as a counterterrorism official revealed that the president wrote instructions for the vice president in case he dies in office. The letter is stored in the Resolute Desk. Officials say the move reflects global security concerns and strong protocols during international travel, including the China trip and ongoing assassination threats.

The West Bengal government has introduced new rules for animal slaughter. Animals must now have a 'fit certificate' from authorities before being slaughtered. Slaughter in public places is strictly forbidden. These guidelines follow court orders and existing laws. Violators face penalties including imprisonment or fines. The aim is to ensure legal compliance and prevent inhumane practices.

The Delhi government has announced a set of new measures aimed at saving fuel and reducing unnecessary expenses, following Prime Minister Narendra Modis call for fuel conservation and mindful spending. As part of the initiative, the government plans to increase the use of online meetings and encourage virtual academic sessions in colleges and universities wherever possible.

Canada's soccer team is set for a major moment in the 2026 World Cup. The nation hosts matches, aiming to build on its growing popularity. With a strong squad featuring stars like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David, the team targets success. This event is expected to boost soccer's profile across Canada. The team believes in its potential to compete.

Kannada actor Dileep Raj died after a suspected cardiac arrest, with reports suggesting a smartwatch reading may have delayed his seeking medical help. This incident highlights concerns about over-reliance on wearable technology for health reassurance, as experts emphasize that smartwatches are not substitutes for professional medical evaluation and urgent care should always be prioritized for concerning symptoms.

Delhi WFH advisory explained: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced a wide-ranging fuel-saving and cost-cutting campaign under Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdaan, urging private offices, IT companies, educational institutions and businesses to reduce travel and fuel use. The Delhi government will implement work from home for two days a week in government offices and advise private firms to follow the same model.

Thousands gathered in Tehran for Iran's World Cup send-off. Players showcased their new kit and made patriotic statements. However, concerns linger about the team's entry into the United States for the tournament. Iran's FA is relying on FIFA to resolve visa issues. The team will train in Turkey before the competition.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has revealed the India A squad for an upcoming ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka. This tournament is scheduled for June 2026. Tilak Varma will lead the team as captain. Riyan Parag has been appointed as the vice-captain. The squad includes promising young cricketers.

Netflix is officially returning to Silver Falls. During the streamers 2026 Upfronts presentation in New York City, the company announced that My Life with the Walter Boys has been renewed for a fourth season, even though Season 3 has yet to premiere.

Arunachal Pradesh receives a significant boost with Rs 4,900 crore from the Centre's new 'Pride of Hills' initiative. This funding targets critical infrastructure and development gaps in the state. Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed gratitude for the allocation. The initiative aims to improve connectivity and foster long-term economic growth in remote areas.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that government employees will now have mandatory two days of work-from-home weekly. Private companies and institutions will also be advised to adopt a similar policy, with the Labour Department monitoring its implementation.

India possesses significant geothermal potential for electricity, cooling, and industrial heat. This clean energy source can create numerous jobs and boost economic activity. While past development was limited, new technologies and policies now make large-scale geothermal projects more feasible. Geothermal offers energy security with minimal environmental impact, unaffected by weather changes.

CBSE Class 12 results brought mixed emotions for students. Aarav Goel, a Shiv Nadar School student, achieved 97.20 percent in Science. He shared his experience of managing stress from both board exams and NEET. Aarav highlighted the mental exhaustion and the importance of balance during intense academic preparation.

The Election Commission of India will conduct a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Maharashtra. This exercise will involve Booth Level Officers visiting nearly 9.86 crore voters' homes for verification. Political parties will assist to ensure accuracy. The process includes training, house-to-house verification, and publication of draft and final electoral rolls. This aims to update voter lists effectively.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged citizens to embrace self-reliance amid West Asian crises. He highlighted the state's significant development since 2017, citing infrastructure growth, increased agricultural output, and a tripling of per capita income. Adityanath emphasized the government's commitment to policy and determination for future progress, positioning Uttar Pradesh as an attractive investment hub.

Telecom gear maker HFCL will invest Rs 230 crore to build a new defence manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. The plant will produce Multi-Mode Hand Grenades and similar products. This facility is expected to be operational by December 2027. The investment will be funded through internal accruals, debt and convertible warrants.

The Maharashtra government has informed the Bombay High Court about a proposal for the posthumous Padma Vibhushan award for wrestler Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav. Jadhav was India's first individual Olympic medalist. The government will also submit a fresh proposal for the Padma Awards 2027. The court is hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by Jadhav's son's foundation.

The CBI has presented five individuals arrested in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case to a Delhi court. These accused were apprehended from various states, including Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Their alleged involvement in the exam leak necessitated their custodial interrogation. The NEET (UG) 2026 exam was previously cancelled due to paper leak allegations.

Fortnite requires server downtime during major patches because Epic Games deploys backend system updates, gameplay changes and new content simultaneously. The update is expected to include gameplay balancing, new map changes, storyline developments and possible Overwatch crossover content.

Henry Ford, a renowned industrialist, left behind timeless wisdom. His words warn against two paths to ruin: being too weak to protect gains or winning money through deceit. Both ultimately lead to loss. Ford stressed that true success involves more than just wealth. It requires wisdom, discipline, and strong moral values.

Rain in Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh braces for more heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds as the IMD issues orange alerts for Lucknow and Kanpur, with specific districts facing severe weather. Tragically, 104 lives were lost due to recent storms, prompting CM Yogi Adityanath to order immediate relief and compensation for affected families and livestock. New advanced weather forecasting systems have also been launched.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu will lay foundation stone for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme infrastructure at Sri Sathya Sai district in Andhra Pradesh. Several defence, aerospace, and drone manufacturing projects will also launch. This positions Andhra Pradesh as a key hub for these industries.

In a significant pivot in international relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump have unveiled a fresh strategy for their nations' partnership that prioritises collaboration while recognising necessary competition. This initiative aims to steer their diplomacy over the coming three years, fostering stability by keeping differences within bounds.

An accused in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case alleged that influential individuals are being protected while smaller players face action. The CBI arrested five individuals across three states, suspecting a multi-state network involving coaching institutes, courier services, and social media. Investigations are focusing on digital records and financial trails to uncover larger operators.

Strategic supply chains spanning semiconductors, rare earth minerals, aerospace and agricultural trade are expected to dominate bilateral discussions between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the ongoing US-China summit, according to a report by Rubix Data Sciences.

The Delhi High Court will start contempt proceedings. This action follows the circulation of extremely defamatory content against Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. The judge made this announcement in open court. The content is linked to the Delhi excise policy case. Justice Sharma stated she cannot remain silent. A detailed order will be passed later today.

A Chinese military officer's stoic stance near US President Donald Trump's Air Force One has gone viral. Footage shows him remaining motionless as the aircraft taxied. Social media users praised his discipline. Others raised safety concerns about the proximity to the jet engines. The incident occurred during Trump's visit to Beijing for high-stakes talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Powerful thunderstorms swept across Uttar Pradesh, causing widespread destruction. At least 89 people died in the severe weather. Prayagraj, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Fatehpur, and Mirzapur were among the worst-hit districts. Homes were damaged, trees uprooted, and livestock perished. Authorities are assessing the damage and providing assistance to affected families.

Actress Shehnaaz Gill's presence at an IPL match has ignited dating rumors with RCB batter Devdutt Padikkal. Viral videos of her cheering for the team led fans to speculate about a personal connection, despite neither party confirming the rumors. The discussion intensified as social media users noted they don't follow each other on Instagram.

A medical body has urged the Supreme Court to overhaul the National Testing Agency (NTA) due to recurring NEET-UG paper leaks, calling it a direct assault on students' fundamental rights. The plea seeks a robust, autonomous system and a high-powered committee to ensure exam integrity, highlighting systemic failures and outdated security measures that jeopardize the future of over 22.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on Wednesday announced a 2 per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees and teachers, providing a salary boost to lakhs of beneficiaries across the state. The revised allowance is expected to increase the financial burden on the state exchequer but comes as relief for employees amid rising living costs.

Kerala lottery results today: Kerala State Lottery Karunya Plus KN-623 results for Thursday, 14 May 2026, have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari announced significant progress on the Pandharpur pilgrimage route. Nearly 80 percent of the work is complete, with remaining stretches to be finished in four to six months. Dedicated lanes and Foot Over Bridges will enhance pilgrim safety. Major infrastructure projects, including the Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi Marg and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi Marg, are nearing completion.

An Ohio junior analyst says his former employer sent him a $3,000 training repayment bill after he quit for a better job, claiming a Zoom seminar teaching basic Excel shortcuts counted as specialized training. The viral Reddit post has sparked debate over controversial workplace clawback agreements and whether companies are using them as exit fees for quitting.