The Economic Times

A massive fire ravaged a furniture market in Delhi's Shastri Park, gutting several shops and causing losses worth lakhs. Firefighters battled the blaze through the night, with locals alleging a delayed response and even resorting to stone pelting. No casualties were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Enrollment for the Ayushman Bharat scheme has commenced in West Bengal. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that beneficiaries can expect to receive benefits starting in July. This central health insurance scheme aims to provide financial protection for healthcare needs. The announcement follows a virtual meeting with Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated India will be the world's largest weapons exporter within 25 to 30 years. He inaugurated an ammunition manufacturing unit in Shirdi. The government aims for the private sector to contribute 50 percent to defence production. Singh emphasized the private sector's role in producing advanced weapon systems.

Suryakumar Yadav's captaincy hangs in the balance. Selectors are reportedly unconvinced about his batting form. Head coach Gautam Gambhir's opinion will be crucial. Potential successors like Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill are being considered. The decision impacts India's T20 future planning.

An American woman in India shared insights on cooling habits. She noted Indians use air conditioners sparingly, often cooling one room and switching them off when leaving. This contrasts with the United States, where central air systems cool entire homes continuously. Heating systems in the US also run constantly in winter.

Singapore now advises all adults aged 21 and above to get tested for HIV once in their lifetime. This comes after a rise in infections last year. In 2025, 166 new cases were reported. The Communicable Diseases Agency urges those at risk for regular testing. Knowing one's status allows for early treatment and prevention.

Cockroaches thrive in damp and humid bathrooms, especially during Indian summers and monsoons. From using cloves and neem leaves to keeping floors dry and drains clean, these six simple home remedies can help prevent cockroach infestations naturally without relying heavily on chemical sprays or expensive pest control services.

Iran's top negotiator and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said that Iran's armed forces had rebuilt their capabilities during the ceasefire and that if the U.S. foolishly restarts the war, the consequences would be more crushing and bitter.

Security has been increased at a jhalmuri stall in Jhargram. The owner, Bikram Kumar Sau, reported receiving death threats and bomb threats. These threats allegedly came from individuals claiming to be from Pakistan and Bangladesh. Sau had previously hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his stall. Police are investigating the threats and have deployed personnel.

Future wars will span multiple domains, integrating land, sea, air, cyberspace, and cognitive warfare. Technology, speed, and innovation will be crucial for success. India's defence manufacturing is growing, with domestic production reaching Rs 1.27 lakh crore and exports at Rs 38,000 crore. A new artillery shell manufacturing unit in Shirdi will boost self-reliance in critical defence capabilities.

Shirdi is set to become a hub for defense manufacturing and technological innovation with the inauguration of the NIBE Shirdi Defence Manufacturing Complex. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan highlighted this as a significant step towards India's self-reliance in defense, emphasizing the evolving nature of modern warfare and the importance of domestic production.

Delhi's Public Works Department is promoting energy saving. Officials must now carpool and use public transport for project inspections. All foreign travel for officers is cancelled until further notice. The department is also pushing for electric vehicles and organic manure in horticulture projects. This aligns with the Chief Minister's fuel-saving campaign.

The Delhi High Court has permitted wrestler Vinesh Phogat to compete in the upcoming Asian Games selection trials. The court found the Wrestling Federation of India's policy exclusionary for not accommodating iconic players like Phogat, who is returning after maternity leave. The trials will be video-recorded with observers present.

Bullock carts are making a comeback in Jharkhand's Hazaribag district. Fuel supply disruptions are impacting diesel vehicle movement. This forces residents to rely on traditional transport for goods. Bullock carts are now seen in areas where they had nearly vanished. This shift highlights the challenges faced by local transportation services.

St Stephen's College has included newly recruited teachers in an examination roster. This comes despite a university probe and a Delhi High Court stay order on the recruitment process. The court had directed the college to halt recruitment following a plea by four assistant professors. The roster was sent out on Friday.

China has deployed over 100 naval and coast guard vessels across regional waters. This comes as Taiwan's security officials express concern. US President Donald Trump's remarks on arms sales to Taiwan have caused unease. Taiwan is seeking to boost its defense spending, but a proposed plan faced parliamentary hurdles. Beijing maintains its firm opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan.

Jammu and Kashmir government has implemented stringent expenditure-control measures to ensure fiscal discipline. Restrictions are now in place for official functions, foreign travel, vehicle purchases, and hiring of office spaces. The directive emphasizes utmost economy, discouraging non-essential travel and promoting virtual alternatives for events.

A medical board from AIIMS Delhi is traveling to Bhopal for a second autopsy of actor-model Twisha Sharma. This follows a Madhya Pradesh High Court order in the alleged dowry death case. The victim's husband has withdrawn his anticipatory bail plea. Police are seeking his custodial remand for questioning. Twisha Sharma was found hanging at her marital home.

LSG vs PBKS Pitch Report: Lucknow Super Giants face Punjab Kings in their final home game of IPL 2026. Punjab Kings need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. The match will be played at the Ekana Stadium under hot conditions. The pitch is expected to favor spinners. Both teams have announced their squads for the crucial encounter.

India and Cyprus have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides concluded his visit to New Delhi. The two nations signed several agreements. Cooperation in trade and defence will deepen. This visit marks a new era for India-Cyprus ties.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited New Delhi and met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Discussions focused on enhancing the India-US partnership. Key areas included energy security, trade, defense cooperation, and the Indo-Pacific strategy. The US invited Prime Minister Modi for a White House visit. These talks underscore the importance of the India-US alliance amid global challenges.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's international partnerships are designed to benefit its youth and technological progress. Global leaders recognize India's youth and advancements. These collaborations aim to create jobs and provide global exposure. India is actively building its future through these strategic alliances, fostering new economic opportunities and strengthening its position on the world stage.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. They discussed energy security, trade, and defense cooperation. The talks focused on expanding American energy exports to India. This meeting comes amid global economic turbulence. It also precedes the upcoming Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting. The visit signals a recalibration of US-India ties.

Coimbatore girl murder: A 10-year-old girl who went out to buy groceries in Tamil Nadus Coimbatore was allegedly abducted and killed, triggering protests and political outrage. Two accused have been arrested. Chief Minister Joseph Vijay condemned the crime, while the victims family demanded justice and questioned the states law and order situation.

Authorities are racing to prevent the explosion of a leaking storage tank containing hazardous chemicals in Garden Grove, California, prompting evacuations for approximately 40,000 residents. The tank, holding methyl methacrylate, overheated and began venting vapors, posing risks of ground release or explosion. Efforts are underway to manage the tank's temperature and contain potential spills.

India's Trade Minister Piyush Goyal will lead a delegation of 150 industry leaders to Canada from May 25 to May 27. The visit aims to boost trade and investment between the two nations. Discussions will focus on a free trade agreement covering energy, critical minerals, textiles, and leather. Cooperation in technology, food processing, and clean energy will also be explored.

West Bengal's healthcare sector is set for a major upgrade with Rs 3,000 crore sanctioned by the Centre. Ayushman Bharat health insurance cards will reach beneficiaries from July. The state is also planning to extend benefits to over one crore migrant residents. Recruitment of healthcare professionals will be prioritized. This initiative aims to improve public healthcare access for all citizens.

The CBI has arrested an assistant commissioner from the food and supply department for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 10,000. The officer was accused of demanding Rs 100 per ration card for the allotment of 475 cards. The CBI apprehended the official during a trap operation while he was allegedly receiving the bribe.

Many familiar plants may disappear by 2100. Climate change is shrinking their habitats, putting species at high risk of extinction. Researchers predict that between 7% and 16% of vascular plants could lose over 90% of their range. This global reshuffling will impact ecosystems and human societies. Protecting plant diversity is crucial for maintaining ecological systems.

Rawalpindi and Islamabad face a severe water crisis. Daily demand exceeds supply by over 60 million gallons. Residents struggle for basic water access. Long-delayed infrastructure projects offer hope but may not keep pace with population growth. The situation is particularly dire in cantonment areas. Officials are working to address the growing deficit.

The U.S. is increasing pressure on Cuba, but unlike Venezuela, the island nation lacks a clear opposition leader or succession plan. Cuba's cohesive and ideologically entrenched government, coupled with U.S. legal constraints and its state-run economy, present significant challenges to regime change efforts.

A 21-year-old African solo travellers viral video has struck a chord online after he shared deeply personal reflections on Indias colonial past, spirituality and resilience. His honest observations about the countrys rich history, chaotic energy and enduring spirit resonated with viewers across social media, earning widespread praise for his thoughtful and unique perspective on India.

European Union nations face significant financial challenges in defence, energy, and pensions over the next 15 years. The International Monetary Fund warns that without action, public debt will become unsustainable. Reforms, consolidation, and potentially joint borrowing are suggested to manage these rising costs and ensure a stable financial future for the bloc.

India's startup ecosystem is now the world's third largest, with over 2.3 lakh recognized startups. Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted the significant involvement of young people from tier-2 and tier-3 cities, and women. He emphasized that this entrepreneurial spirit is driving national development and creating new opportunities across various sectors.

Global food prices are set to rise. Citi Research warns of increased inflation risks. Potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and worsening El Nino conditions threaten supply. Agricultural commodity prices could surge in the coming months. Higher energy and fertiliser costs are also a concern.

Police in Pakistan's Punjab province have foiled a major terror attack, arresting 13 terrorists, primarily from the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) conducted intelligence-based operations, seizing weapons, explosives, and materials intended to target law enforcement agencies. A key arrest in Lahore yielded a significant amount of explosives.

Residents of Dakshinpuri's Block 10 are facing a severe water crisis for nearly a month, struggling with basic hygiene and drinking water. A single temple tap has become a lifeline, with long queues forming daily. Despite Delhi Jal Board's efforts with tankers, residents await clear answers on restoration.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Kedarnath, warning of thunderstorms and strong winds, placing the ongoing Yatra on high alert. Authorities are halting pilgrims during adverse weather, while helicopter services are suspended due to poor visibility. A traffic diversion plan is in place for the Char Dham Yatra rush.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in New Delhi for crucial talks. The visit centers on India's energy needs amid a global crisis. Discussions will also cover defense, technology, and strengthening India's role in the Indo-Pacific strategy. This meeting aims to deepen economic ties and ensure strategic alignment between the two nations.

Bhopal Police is seeking a seven-day remand for Samarth Singh, the prime accused in his wife Twisha Sharma's death. Singh was taken into custody from Jabalpur after attempting to surrender. Notices were also served to his mother, a former judge, who denies receiving them. Efforts are underway to arrange a second autopsy by AIIMS Delhi.

ClickUp Layoffs: ClickUp is cutting 22 per cent of its workforce as the company shifts more aggressively towards artificial intelligence-driven operations. CEO Zeb Evans said the move is part of a broader plan to achieve 100x output using AI tools and automation. He also stated that employees who deliver exceptional results with AI could qualify for significantly higher salary bands. The development reflects a wider trend across the tech industry, where companies are embracing AI while simultane

Hindu organizations in Maharashtra are set to launch a statewide protest on Sunday. They demand the withdrawal of the proposed Devasthan Inam Abolition Draft Act, 2026. The group claims the law unfairly targets Hindu temple properties. They allege Waqf land is excluded from the act's purview. The Mahasangh seeks to protect historic temple lands.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis traveled to Shirdi via Vande Bharat Express, aligning with PM Modi's call for reduced fuel consumption and sustainable practices. Fadnavis also highlighted the state's invocation of MCOCA against cow smuggling and its preparedness for potential El Nino impacts on rainfall during the upcoming kharif season.

Kerala Bumper Lottery result today: The much-awaited Kerala Vishu Bumper BR-109 lottery results for 18 May 2026 have been officially declared. Over 44 lakh tickets were sold for this special bumper draw. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the massive 12 crore first prize and other attractive rewards.

Twisha Sharma found hanging at her marital home in Bhopal, days after reportedly pleading with her mother to be taken home, has sparked dowry harassment allegations. Her husband, now arrested, and mother-in-law are accused. The family disputes claims of the deceased's mental health issues, pointing to injuries suggesting foul play.

The Centre has released draft rules for the VB-GRAM G Act, 2025. Public consultation is now open for feedback. This is a crucial step before the Act's scheduled rollout on July 1. The government aims for a smooth implementation. More details on the Act's provisions will follow the consultation period.