News for 'The Economic Times'

Winning Bengal Was The Hard Part For The BJP... Governing It May Prove Even Harder

Winning Bengal Was The Hard Part For The BJP... Governing It May Prove Even Harder

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A BJP government in Bengal inherits more problems than it might care to admit at its moment of triumph, points out Ramesh Menon

India's Forex Reserves Surge Past $700 Billion

India's Forex Reserves Surge Past $700 Billion

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

India's foreign exchange reserves have surged by $3.825 billion to reach $700.946 billion as of April 10, marking a significant milestone for the country's financial stability.

'Pakistan Has Been Betraying Everyone'

'Pakistan Has Been Betraying Everyone'

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

If Trump wants peace with Iran, Pakistan will offer to help. If Trump seeks Pakistan's aid to spy on Iran, then too Munir will not hesitate to chip in. At the same time, the ISI will not hesitate to tip off Iran now and then, points out M R Narayan Swamy.

War In The Strait Has Reached A Condom Factory!

War In The Strait Has Reached A Condom Factory!

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Karex, the Malaysian company that makes roughly one in five of the world's condoms -- about five billion a year, supplying Durex and Trojan among others -- announced this week that it is raising prices by up to 30 percent. The reason is the Strait of Hormuz.

HDFC Bank Q4 deposits grow 15% YoY, advances jump 12%

HDFC Bank Q4 deposits grow 15% YoY, advances jump 12%

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

HDFC Bank reports a 12% credit growth for the March quarter, alongside the unexpected resignation of its chairman, Atanu Chakraborty, due to ethical concerns.

Kara Review: Dhanush Anchors a Flawed Heist-Thriller

Kara Review: Dhanush Anchors a Flawed Heist-Thriller

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Kara had the makings of a fine heist thriller anchored by a superlative Dhanush, but a slack screenplay in crucial stretches and an overdose of melodrama ensure it only works in patches, observes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

RBI Projects $85 Crude Oil, Rupee at 94 by FY27

RBI Projects $85 Crude Oil, Rupee at 94 by FY27

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has projected that crude oil prices will average USD 85 per barrel and the rupee will weaken to 94 against the dollar by FY27, according to its bi-annual Monetary Policy report.

Why Did Israel Kill Ali Larijani?

Why Did Israel Kill Ali Larijani?

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Israel has for more than two decades and several US presidencies worked to draw the United States into a full-scale war with Iran. Having finally achieved that, the last thing it wants is Trump declaring victory and going home, as he is prone to do. Ali Larijani was the figure most capable of handing Trump a negotiated exit with something to show for it. Without Larijani, the road to an exit gets considerably narrower. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

West Asia Conflict Can Create Havoc With Budget Numbers

West Asia Conflict Can Create Havoc With Budget Numbers

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The conflict may disrupt Budget 2026-2027 projections, squeezing revenues and raising subsidies, prompting fiscal adjustments and potential reforms, echoing lessons from the Covid-era shock, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Roads can't be blocked for religious activities: SC

Roads can't be blocked for religious activities: SC

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has stated that roads cannot be blocked for religious activities and that while religious denominations have autonomy in worship, the government can interfere if secular activities are affected.

India is a tough nut to crack: Trump's trade representative

India is a tough nut to crack: Trump's trade representative

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

A US trade representative described India as a 'tough nut to crack' during trade agreement negotiations in Washington, highlighting India's protection of its agricultural markets and the ongoing discussions on specific commodities.

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

Indian exporters may not get US tariff refunds

Indian exporters may not get US tariff refunds

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Indian exporters are unlikely to receive direct tariff refunds from the US's $166 billion payout, but the rollback of reciprocal duties is enhancing their pricing power and improving order prospects, particularly in textiles, apparel, and engineering goods.

Goa's Sadhvi Sail Crowned Femina Miss India World

Goa's Sadhvi Sail Crowned Femina Miss India World

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Sadhvi Satish Sail, model and entrepreneur, is crowned Femina Miss India World 2026.

In Rs 1 trn urban fund, cities to get Rs 10K cr for capacity building, credit guarantee

In Rs 1 trn urban fund, cities to get Rs 10K cr for capacity building, credit guarantee

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The Indian government has launched the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) with a total outlay of Rs 1 lakh crore, aiming to leverage private and market finance for urban infrastructure projects by providing state support in capacity building and credit guarantees.

Commercial LPG, 5-kg cylinders see steepest-ever hike in prices

Commercial LPG, 5-kg cylinders see steepest-ever hike in prices

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Aviation fuel prices for domestic airlines remain unchanged, providing stability for local carriers, while commercial LPG and 5-kg cylinders see a significant rate hike due to rising international energy costs.

IPL 2026, GT vs RCB: Gujarat Titans stave off Royal Challengers fightback for 5th win

IPL 2026, GT vs RCB: Gujarat Titans stave off Royal Challengers fightback for 5th win

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Skipper Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler played useful knocks to help Gujarat Titans chase down defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru's modest total, securing a four-wicket win in their Indian Premier League match in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

Iran War: 'US Doesn't Depend On Strait of Hormuz For Oil'

Iran War: 'US Doesn't Depend On Strait of Hormuz For Oil'

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

'Neither do the Israelis. The two attacking parties have very little economic interest in Hormuz.'

Punjab's Halwara Airport to Commence Flight Bookings in April, Boosting Connectivity

Punjab's Halwara Airport to Commence Flight Bookings in April, Boosting Connectivity

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Flight bookings for Halwara airport in Punjab are scheduled to begin in April, with the first commercial flight expected between May 10 and 15. The airport's opening is anticipated to significantly enhance air connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.

Iran conflict could shave off 1% point from India's FY27 GDP growth projections: EY

Iran conflict could shave off 1% point from India's FY27 GDP growth projections: EY

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

A new report suggests that prolonged conflict in the Middle East could significantly impact India's GDP growth and inflation.

Will Trump's 5 Day Pause End The War On Friday?

Will Trump's 5 Day Pause End The War On Friday?

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

'Was the five-day pause ever meant to hold, or was it simply another instrument of signaling, of positioning, of buying time in a war where even the pauses are tactical?' asks Prem Panicker in his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Iran will face problems 'like never seen before' if...: Trump

Iran will face problems 'like never seen before' if...: Trump

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Donald Trump has expressed confidence that Tehran will engage in diplomatic talks, warning that the country will 'see problems' should it refuse to cooperate.

Office construction activity declines to four-quarter low

Office construction activity declines to four-quarter low

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

New completions in India's office real estate sector fell by 36 per cent to 9.7 million square feet in Q1 2026, the lowest in four quarters, primarily due to developers adopting a cautious stance amid global uncertainties, particularly in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Despite this, office absorption increased by 20 per cent, indicating strong occupier demand.

Chhattisgarh Focuses on Bastar Development After Naxalism 'Elimination'

Chhattisgarh Focuses on Bastar Development After Naxalism 'Elimination'

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The Chhattisgarh government is shifting its focus to the development of the Bastar region after claiming the elimination of armed Naxalism. The plan includes preserving tribal culture, creating economic opportunities for youth, and strengthening the economy through forest produce and women-led self-help groups.

Iran Ceasefire Hours From Collapse

Iran Ceasefire Hours From Collapse

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Trump has made it clear: the US will not lift its blockade of Iranian ports until a deal is signed.

India, Russia discuss strengthening ties amid West Asia conflict

India, Russia discuss strengthening ties amid West Asia conflict

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov met with Indian leaders to discuss strengthening bilateral ties in key sectors amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia.

Nasscom To Focus On AI Integration And Revenue Growth

Nasscom To Focus On AI Integration And Revenue Growth

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Nasscom's newly appointed Chairman, Srikanth Velamakanni, outlines key priorities including restoring revenue growth in IT firms and promoting the role of artificial intelligence and other technologies in companies.

Trump's Signature on US Currency Marks Historic First

Trump's Signature on US Currency Marks Historic First

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

US President Donald Trump's signature will soon appear on US paper currency, coinciding with the 250th anniversary celebrations of American Independence.

India's Supreme Court Addresses the Deep-Rooted Issue of Crimes Against Women

India's Supreme Court Addresses the Deep-Rooted Issue of Crimes Against Women

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court of India has expressed concern over the continued prevalence of domestic abuse and crimes against women, highlighting that these issues are symptomatic of a deeper societal problem rooted in patriarchy, despite economic and legal advancements.

Why Government Wanted To Rush Delimitation Bill

Why Government Wanted To Rush Delimitation Bill

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

'The reason why they rushed through the bill was they wanted to avoid using the 2026 Census because the 2026 Census by their own decision will be a caste census.' 'The BJP knows that a significant share of the OBCs who will get captured in the census, for the first time after the 1931 Census, are against the BJP. Only a segment of the OBCs are in their favour.' 'So they wanted to avoid the OBC reservation among women, which is a demand of a lot of Opposition parties.'

'The Youth Of Kerala Believe In Modi'

'The Youth Of Kerala Believe In Modi'

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

'Secularism or social development or social justice is no longer part of development, according to the youth in Kerala.' 'They are concerned about material wellbeing and material welfare, and they believe that Narendra Modi is capable to giving them that kind of development.' 'So, they don't have any ideological hesitation in voting for him.'

Mid-Size SUVs Fuel 87% Surge in India's EV Sales in FY26

Mid-Size SUVs Fuel 87% Surge in India's EV Sales in FY26

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

India's electric passenger vehicle market saw an 87.4 per cent year-on-year increase in FY26, reaching 233,246 units, primarily driven by the mid-size SUV segment (20-30 lakh price bracket), while the entry-level segment (sub-10 lakh) experienced a decline.

Mark Mobius: The Champion of Emerging Markets

Mark Mobius: The Champion of Emerging Markets

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

'Mobius made EMs investable and India his most enduring belief.'

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Illegal Immigration in West Bengal

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Illegal Immigration in West Bengal

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed poll rallies in West Bengal, promising to tackle corruption and illegal immigration if the BJP comes to power. He criticised the current TMC government and outlined the BJP's plans for the state.

Court Orders Trial Against Lawrence Bishnoi Under MCOCA

Court Orders Trial Against Lawrence Bishnoi Under MCOCA

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

A Delhi court has ordered the framing of charges under MCOCA against gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and 19 others, citing a prima facie case against them. The order follows an FIR registered by the Delhi Police's special cell in March 2021 against an alleged organised crime syndicate led by Sandeep alias Kala Jathedi and his associates.

No plans for further peace talks with US, says Iran

No plans for further peace talks with US, says Iran

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Iranian Foreign Ministry has stated that Tehran currently has no plans for a subsequent round of negotiations with the United States, according to the state media Tasnim news agency. This announcement comes as international mediators had hoped for a follow-up to the Islamabad talks before the looming ceasefire deadline.

Chhattisgarh Official Arrested in Road Project Compensation Scam

Chhattisgarh Official Arrested in Road Project Compensation Scam

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

A suspended revenue department official has been arrested in Chhattisgarh in connection with an alleged compensation scam related to the Bharatmala road project, which caused a loss of Rs 32 crore to the exchequer.

Second-round effects of supply shocks a real concern, says RBI governor

Second-round effects of supply shocks a real concern, says RBI governor

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that preventing second-round effects of supply shocks, where inflation expectations rise due to prolonged disruptions, is the primary role of monetary policy. He also defended the RBI's foreign exchange market interventions, asserting it did not commit to an 'indefensible peg'.

'Mumbai Indians need to look beyond Bumrah's four overs'

'Mumbai Indians need to look beyond Bumrah's four overs'

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis suggests Mumbai Indians need to reduce their reliance on Jasprit Bumrah to achieve consistency in the IPL.

Most Indian Athletics Tracks Fail Quality Standards: AFI

Most Indian Athletics Tracks Fail Quality Standards: AFI

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has revealed that a significant majority of synthetic tracks in the country are substandard, raising concerns about athlete performance and track longevity. The AFI is now working with World Athletics to improve track certification and vendor quality.