Q&A - Interviews / The Economic Times
Israeli Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana has invited former US President Donald Trump to address the parliament, calling him the greatest friend and ally of the Jewish people. Ohana cited Trump's leadership in brokering regional agreements and his past actions, such as recognizing Jerusalem and affirming sovereignty over the Golan Heights, as reasons for the invitation.
Donald Trump issued a proclamation for Columbus Day 2025, hailing Christopher Columbus as a rue American hero and a giant of Western civilization. He condemned efforts by left-wing radicals to erase the explorer's legacy. This comes as the debate continues over Columbus Day versus Indigenous Peoples' Day, with some states and cities opting for the latter.
Whether October 13, 2025, is recognized as Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples Day, or simply another Monday largely depends on where Americans live and work. The holiday continues to be one of the most inconsistently observed across the United States.
West Bengal government will honor firefighters, SDRF, police, engineers, and doctors for their bravery during the recent northern Bengal disaster. The chief minister is also set to visit Darjeeling to review reconstruction efforts. Separately, the state plans to protest the DVC's alleged unannounced water release, which caused flooding in south Bengal.
Jharkhand experienced its most intense monsoon in a decade, with heavy rainfall from June to September causing at least 458 deaths and widespread destruction. The state recorded 18% above-normal rainfall, leading to damaged homes, ravaged farmlands, and displacement of thousands. This extreme weather is attributed to climate change and active Bay of Bengal conditions.
Kannada star Shivarajkumar welcomed actor-politician Vijay's entry into politics, citing his desire to help people. However, he urged caution, especially after the tragic stampede at Vijay's rally. Shivarajkumar, who has acted in Tamil films, described the loss of lives as heartwrenching and advised Vijay to deliberate carefully on his political steps.
Delhi Police arrested three individuals for their alleged involvement in an online job fraud racket with Chinese links. The accused facilitated financial transactions by arranging bank accounts and converting funds into cryptocurrency. This operation followed a complaint from a nurse defrauded of nearly Rs 16 lakh.
Renowned hair stylist Jawed Habib and his family are facing over 20 cases for allegedly duping people of Rs 5-7 crores. Victims were reportedly misled into investing in Follicle Global Company (FLC) with promises of high returns, with over 150 individuals losing lakhs. Police are urging more victims to come forward.
India's urban singles show exceptional openness to online dating, leading Tinder to launch its Face Check safety feature there first in Asia. This initiative aims to combat bots and scammers, ensuring authentic connections as online authenticity becomes paramount. Match Group sees strong product-market fit in India, with users prioritizing safety and meaningful relationships.
Bihar's electoral rolls show approximately 14,000 voters over 100 years old. However, the number of electors aged 85 and above significantly decreased from over 1.6 million to 403,985 after a special revision. Overall voter numbers also saw reductions across male, female, and third gender categories following deletions and additions.
A Russian expat in India, Anastasia Sharova, shares 11 habits she has adopted. These range from practical customs like removing shoes before entering shops to unique practices such as eating fennel seeds after meals. Sharova now beeps before blind turns and uses the head nod for 'accha'. She also follows specific customs for giving money and greeting.
The first 90 days after a type 2 diabetes diagnosis are crucial for managing the condition and reducing heart disease risks. Experts emphasize understanding the body's response to high blood sugar, adopting healthy lifestyle foundations like smart eating and regular exercise, and seeking support to lay the groundwork for long-term health.
An old video of Eswatini's King Mswati III arriving in Abu Dhabi with 15 wives and 100 aides has resurfaced, sparking outrage. The monarch's extravagant lifestyle contrasts sharply with the poverty and struggles faced by his citizens, highlighting global concerns about wealth concentration and accountability.
Bihar's Assembly elections will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, with results on November 14. Opposition parties, including Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), have questioned the Election Commission's credibility and expressed confidence in a change of governance after two decades of NDA rule, citing public yearning for a new era.
Heavy monsoon rains have caused widespread devastation across southern Nepal, resulting in at least 61 deaths and submerging homes, fields, and infrastructure. Displaced families are being sheltered by local authorities as rescue efforts continue, with the nation recording a total of 285 disaster-related deaths this year.
Bihar gears up for assembly elections on November 6 and 11. The NDA expresses confidence in retaining power under Nitish Kumar, highlighting development and good governance. The RJD anticipates a vote for change, focusing on unemployment and misgovernance. The Election Commission faces criticism from the Congress over the timing of the announcement. Counting of votes is set for November 14.
Cricket sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal recently offered a rare glimpse into his personal world during a candid chat with Raj Shamani. He openly discussed being single due to his hectic travel schedule, yet expressed deep value for genuine love. Jaiswal also shared his grounded philosophy of living in the moment, revealing a surprisingly relatable side beyond his on-field achievements.
A sudden flood near Bhutan's Amochu River left several families and workers stranded. When Bhutan's national airline helicopter was grounded by bad weather, the country sought urgent Indian support. The Indian Army swiftly deployed helicopters, airlifting the stranded to safety and medical care, underscoring the enduring India-Bhutan friendship.
Activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently held in Jodhpur Central Jail, demands an independent judicial inquiry into the killing of four people during the Leh protests, stating he will remain incarcerated until this demand is met. Detained under NSA following violent clashes over Ladakh's statehood and 6th Schedule demands, he reaffirmed his commitment to the cause and urged peaceful, non-violent struggle.
Typhoon Matmo intensified significantly before making landfall in southern China on Sunday, triggering the evacuation of over 150,000 people from Guangdong province. With maximum sustained winds of 151 kph, authorities issued a red-level typhoon warning, the highest alert. Hainan province cancelled flights and public transport.
The essay reflects on the growing global obsession with street aesthetics, highlighting incidents in Delhi, Britain, and the US where authorities and citizens have targeted marginalized groupsstray dogs, immigrants, and the homelessunder the guise of safety or beautification.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrating into religious practices, offering virtual spiritual guidance and automated sermons, which elicits mixed reactions from believers. While apps like Text with Jesus gain users and some clergy see AI as an educational tool, concerns persist about the technology's lack of emotional connection and heart and spirit compared to human interaction.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged citizens to purchase Khadi products worth at least Rs 5,000 annually, emphasizing its role in generating employment for millions. He highlighted Prime Minister Modi's 'swadeshi' initiative and Mahatma Gandhi's historical connection of Khadi to India's freedom movement and economic empowerment, noting Khadi's significant revival since 2014.
A boat carrying traders capsized on the River Niger in Nigeria. Twenty-six people drowned. The vessel travelled from Kogi State to Edo State. This event occurred on Wednesday. Boat accidents happen in Nigeria. Operators overload vessels. They ignore safety regulations. Accidents increase during the season of rain. Boats serve as transport in areas of Nigeria.
A recent UK Supreme Court ruling affirming sex refers to biological sex under equality laws has left transgender individuals like Nate Rae feeling unsafe and excluded. Interim guidance from the EHRC suggests barring trans people from facilities matching their lived gender, leading to widespread fear and harassment within the trans community, particularly among young people.
Former President Ramnath Kovind spoke at the RSS Vijayadashmi rally in Nagpur. He urged young people to enter politics, observing good individuals stay away. Kovind drew inspiration from Dr Ambedkar and Dr Hedgewar. He affirmed RSS fosters national unity and social harmony. The rally celebrated the RSS centenary. Kovind announced his book 'Triumph of the Indian Republic'.
PDP president Mehbooba Mufti accused the BJP of coercing Kashmiris to stand for the national anthem at gunpoint, citing recent police detentions as a government failure. She contrasted this with past voluntary respect. Mufti also appealed to authorities to preserve public sports grounds in Srinagar, warning that their conversion could lead youth astray and foster ill will.
The BJP's winning streak in Assam's Bodoland has ended, as the party secured only five seats in the recent Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) polls. The Bodoland Peoples' Front (BPF) made a strong comeback, winning 28 of the 40 seats. Despite contesting separately, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma declared the BPF's victory as an NDA win.
A powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck off the central Philippines on Tuesday evening, causing damage to buildings and roads, and widespread power outages. While no casualties were immediately reported, residents were warned of a minor sea-level disturbance and urged to stay away from coasts. Authorities are assessing the situation and anticipating aftershocks.
A strong 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines Tuesday night, causing residents to flee into streets, damaging a stone church, and cutting power in some areas. Centered near Bogo city in Cebu province, the quake was caused by a local fault, with further damage and aftershocks anticipated in the disaster-prone region.
Over 10,700 individuals in India's farming sector died by suicide in 2023, with Maharashtra and Karnataka reporting the highest numbers. This figure includes both farmers and agricultural labourers. The NCRB report also highlighted that 66.2% of all suicide victims nationwide had an annual income below Rs 1 lakh.
Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Modi of betraying Ladakh. He demanded an impartial judicial probe into the deaths of four protesters. A Kargil war veteran, Tsewang Tharchin, was among those killed. Protests for statehood turned violent. A BJP office was set on fire. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was detained.
A stampede occurred at Tamil Nadu Vetri Kazhagam leader Vijay's rally in Karur. The death toll reached 41, including women and children. Chief Minister MK Stalin asked people to avoid spreading misinformation. He announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for deceased families. Vijay also pledged financial assistance to victims. Overcrowding reportedly caused the incident.
Bengaluru, once India's tech dream, is losing its appeal due to chronic traffic, pollution, and high living costs, prompting an exodus of residents. Many are now relocating to tier-2 cities like Mysuru, which offers a better quality of life, lower expenses, and improved infrastructure. This shift indicates a growing trend towards more livable urban centers.
BJP leader Madan Rathore claimed a rally exceeded permission, leading to a stampede. He stated 10,000 people were allowed, but over 1 lakh gathered. This incident resulted in 39 deaths and many injuries. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed sorrow. He highlighted flaws in crowd management systems. Tharoor urged governments to create strict safety protocols for large gatherings.
A stampede at a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhaga (TVK) rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, resulted in 40 deaths and 67 injuries. The TVK party sought an independent probe from the Madras High Court. Chief Minister MK Stalin announced 10 lakh compensation for victims' families and formed an inquiry committee, stressing the need to prevent future such tragedies.
Multiple people have been shot at a Mormon church in Michigan. An 'active shooter' opened fire at the Church of Latter Day Saints in Grand Blanc on Sunday morning, according to local police. The shooting in Michigan comes hours after three people were killed and eight were injured in a separate shooting incident in North Carolina.
President Trump's recent comments on autism, Tylenol, and vaccines generated diverse reactions. Some families welcomed the renewed focus and research pledges for the developmental condition. Others expressed outrage over unscientific claims and felt mothers were blamed. Autistic individuals also shared varied perspectives on the condition. This discussion reveals significant community divisions.
After violence ensued in Uttar Pradesh's Bareilly on September 26 after several protestors gathered in support of the 'I love Muhammad' campaign, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Range Ajay Kumar Sahni said on Saturday that 10 FIRs have been registered, and 39 individuals have been identified in connection with the violence.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the government over activist Sonam Wangchuk's arrest. Kharge accused the BJP of betraying Ladakh's people and mishandling the situation. Ladakh police arrested 44 individuals, including Wangchuk, under NSA charges. Police questioned Wangchuk's connections abroad. His arrest followed violent protests in Leh, resulting in deaths and property damage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke in Jharsuguda, Odisha. He alleged Congress looted people and taxed low-income earners. Modi stated the BJP government increased the income tax limit. He claimed Congress opposed GST reforms which lowered prices. The Prime Minister asserted Odisha progressed under a double-engine government. He emphasized India's resolve for self-reliance.
In the Bodoland Territorial Council elections, Bodoland Peoples' Front (BPF) is leading in 19 of 40 seats, aiming for a comeback after five years. BJP leads in 13 seats, while UPPL is ahead in eight. Congress failed to win any seats. With the majority mark at 21, a fractured mandate is emerging, and BJP may back BPF to form the council government.
People with diabetes can eat bananas, but they must be careful with size and ripeness. Bananas give vitamins, fiber, and minerals, which are healthy. Unripe bananas have more fiber and less sugar, while ripe ones raise blood sugar faster. Eating small portions and pairing bananas with protein or fat can help control sugar levels safely.