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India's AI Journey: Full-Scale Deployment And Benefits
Oracle India head Shailender Kumar states that Indian businesses have transitioned from AI pilot projects to full-scale deployment, realizing significant benefits. While challenges like cost, skills, and infrastructure exist, companies are keen to adopt AI once tangible advantages are proven, with governance and regulation evolving alongside the technology's maturity.
Mobile Retailers Face Their Worst Diwali In Years
As many as 15,000-20,000 frontline retail jobs have reportedly been rationalised, with further cuts feared.
Illegal US migration: Indians remain in top 3
Indian nationals continued to rank as the third-largest group encountered by US border authorities in the 2026 fiscal year, despite a steep decline in illegal migration attempts following President Donald Trump's crackdown on unauthorised immigration.US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data show that 30,528 Indian nationals were encountered by border authorities in FY26, which ran from October 2025 to September 2026. Only Mexican and Canadian nationals recorded higher numbers, with 1,23,439 and 37,700 encounters, respectively.India ranked ahead of China, which recorded 29,818 encounters. The figures indicate that attempts by Indians to enter the US illegally continue despite tougher enforcement and the risks associated with the journey, commonly known as the 'donkey route'.According to sources familiar with illegal immigration networks, a sizeable number of those attempting the journey are from Gujarat, Punjab and Andhra Pradesh. Within Gujarat, people from North and Central Gujarat continue to figure prominently among those seeking to enter the US through unauthorised routes.Illegal migration encounters from India fall nearly 64%135630363The number of Indian nationals encountered at US borders has declined considerably over the past three fiscal years. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recorded 90,415 encounters involving Indians in FY24. This fell to 34,146 in FY25 and further to 30,528 in FY26, marking a decline of nearly 64% from FY24.The reduction coincides with the Trump administration's tougher immigration enforcement measures. Trump returned to the White House on January 20, 2025, after winning the November 2024 presidential election, with a crackdown on illegal immigration among his administration's major priorities.The decline in Indian encounters is part of a wider fall in unauthorised migration to the US. CBP recorded 3,82,490 border encounters across nationalities in FY26, nearly 45% below the 6,91,906 recorded in FY25. The corresponding figures were considerably higher in FY24 and FY23, at around 29 lakh and 32 lakh, respectively.Among other nationalities, Guatemala accounted for 18,319 encounters, followed by the Philippines with 17,985 and Honduras with 13,005. Brazil recorded 6,285, Russia 5,327 and Venezuela 4,945. Nationals of other countries, grouped, accounted for 63,678 encounters.Gujarat continues to bear the human cost135630381The continuing attempts to reach the US illegally have also resulted in fatalities and disappearances. At least 11 people from Gujarat died and another 11 were injured or went missing between 2022 and 2025 while attempting the journey.One of the most devastating incidents occurred on January 19, 2022, when four members of a family from Dingucha village in Gujarat's Gandhinagar district froze to death near the US-Canada border. Jagdish Patel, 30, his wife Vaishali, 37, and their children Vihang, 13, and Dharmik, aged three, were found dead near Emerson in Manitoba, Canada, around 10 metres from the border. The family had been travelling on foot when they were caught in a blizzard.On March 28, 2023, four members of a family from Manekpura village in Mehsana district drowned after a boat capsized. Another tragedy occurred on May 5, 2025, when two children from Mehsana drowned off the California coast.Despite these incidents, illegal migration networks continue to attract people with the promise of better financial prospects in the US.A source familiar with the networks said, Though people have been shunted out of the US through Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) crackdown, a large number of Gujaratis mainly from North and Central Gujarat are sneaking into America for better financial security.The source added that attempts to enter through the Mexican and Canadian borders were continuing, with individuals reportedly paying between Rs 80 lakh and Rs 1.25 crore for the journey.- Reference taken from TOI
Equities, debt or gold? Kalpen Parekh lays out the right asset allocation approach this Diwali
With Indian markets stuck in a two-year consolidation phase and gold emerging as a major portfolio performer, DSP Mutual Funds Kalpen Parekh says investors should focus on asset allocation rather than chase recent returns. He recommends slowly adding equities after the correction, maintaining debt for stability and liquidity, and treating gold as a diversifier, not a momentum trade.Edited excerpts from a chat:Diwali is the time of the year when we think of making new beginnings. But the market is stuck in a time warp for the last 2 years and SIP investors are nursing wounds. What's the best way to approach markets at this stage?Markets have delivered strong returns in the years leading up to September 2024, and valuations had moved well ahead of earnings. The last two years have largely been a period of consolidation, allowing earnings to catch up with prices. Such phases are a normal part of investing.For long-term SIP investors, this period can actually be useful. When markets remain flat or correct, investors accumulate more units at lower prices. I often say that bear markets are bull markets for unit accumulation. The benefits of this become visible over time, as markets recover and earnings grow.Equity investing requires patience through different market cycles. Investors should focus less on returns over the last two years and more on whether their asset allocation, investment horizon and ability to tolerate volatility remain aligned. A portfolio that allows you to stay invested through difficult periods is far more valuable than one built around expectations of uninterrupted returns.If a young investor has 10 lakh to invest this Diwali, how should the money be allocated across equity, fixed income, gold and other asset classes? Should the entire amount be invested at one go or staggered?Asset allocation is very personal. It depends on your goals, how long you can stay invested and how much risk you are comfortable taking. So, I don't think I can suggest one allocation that would work for everyone.For most investors who are not familiar with the basics of investing, I think the first step should be to find a good money coach, whether that is a mutual fund distributor (MFD) or a registered investment adviser (RIA). Someone who can help you understand your goals, risk appetite and build an investment plan that works for you.Additionally, if you are new to investing, I think passive funds and multi-asset funds are good ways to start. If your investment horizon is 10 years or more, you can also consider mid- and small-cap funds, provided you are prepared for the volatility that comes with them. I would also keep some money in debt. It gives you stability and the flexibility to invest more when markets correct. Gold can be a small part of the portfolio for diversification.Honestly, we dont know where markets will be six months or a year from now. What makes sense is having a sensible mix of assets that you can stay invested in, even when markets go through difficult periods.For investors sitting on cash after the recent correction, what is the right framework for deploying fresh money when it is impossible to identify the exact market bottom?I think this is a better time to slowly start adding back equities, as we have seen sharp corrections, especially in large caps. But whether you invest today, tomorrow or at any other time, you should be clear that equity investing requires a time horizon of at least 5 to 7 years, and there will be ups and downs in your NAV along the way.What should a balanced asset allocation portfolio look like across different market cycles, and how frequently should investors rebalance it?I don't think there is one ideal asset allocation for every investor or every market cycle. A person investing for three years should have a very different portfolio from someone investing for 15 years. The ability to tolerate a temporary 2030% fall in equities also matters.Equities offer the potential for higher long-term returns but can be very volatile in the short term. Debt provides stability and liquidity, while gold can offer diversification. Investors who find it difficult to manage these allocations themselves can also consider hybrid or dynamic asset allocation funds.Rebalancing should be driven by how far the portfolio has moved away from the intended allocation, rather than every market headline. Reviewing the portfolio once or twice a year is a reasonable discipline. If equities have risen sharply and become a much larger part of the portfolio, some profits can be moved to debt. Similarly, a correction may create room to increase equity exposure. The idea is to manage risk, not predict the next market movement.Gold has delivered strong returns and attracted considerable investor interest but is now a party spoiler. How should investors evaluate their existing gold exposure?I wouldn't call gold a party spoiler. Gold has done very well, and it is natural for investors to get excited when an asset class delivers strong returns. But we have to be careful about buying more of something simply because its price has gone up. We often see investors becoming more interested in an asset after it has delivered good returns, rather than when it was available at a reasonable price.I look at gold as a diversifier, not as an asset where we should keep chasing returns. Unlike equities, gold does not have underlying earnings or cash flows. Its price is influenced by global uncertainty, interest rates, currencies and investor demand. So, we should not assume that the returns of the last few years will continue.If you are underweight on gold in your portfolio, the recent 25% correction makes this one of the better times to add to your allocation. On the other hand, if gold has become a much larger part of your portfolio because of the recent rally, it may be sensible to rebalance some of it into other asset classes. I don't think investors need to exit gold or keep adding to it based on recent price movements. Every asset class has a role in a portfolio. The idea of asset allocation is to have different assets that behave differently across market cycles, rather than constantly moving money into what has done well recently.You have been vocal about the impact of human emotions on investing as there is a behavioural science aspect involved in the business. How do you see the greed and fear cycle has evolved since the market peaked out in September 2024 and at which stage are we now?Market cycles are as much about psychology as economics. September 2024 was marked by optimism and expensive valuations. Nearly two years later, exuberance has given way to caution. I would describe the current phase as one of scepticism rather than extreme fear.Gold and silver offer an interesting lesson. Silver delivered almost no meaningful returns over much of 201519 but rewarded patient investors handsomely in the years that followed. By January 2026, it had risen nearly 200% in a year. Gold had gained almost 80%. An investor entering after such a spectacular rally was taking significantly higher entry risk. And eventually losing your capitalThe practical lesson is to look at what has been ignored, not just what has performed. When an asset is out of favour, examine whether its fundamentals and long-term potential remain intact. When everyone is excited about it, examine what is already priced in. That is a more useful way to navigate the greed and fear cycle than trying to predict market tops and bottoms.The general consensus on Dalal Street appears to be that most of the problems like crude oil, rupee, AI craze, etc. are not of India's doing. But at the same time India has no direct AI play, and valuations were not in favour either when FII selling began. What can we do to bring FIIs back in big numbers?Foreign investors compare opportunities across markets. They look at growth, earnings, valuations, currencies and the returns available elsewhere. India may continue to be a good long-term growth story, but that does not mean foreign investors will buy Indian equities at any price.In 2024, Indian valuations had become expensive relative to earnings. At the same time, other markets offered opportunities at more reasonable valuations. Global investors also have access to businesses and sectors that may not be represented in the same way in Indian indices.Money will flow where it finds respect, growth, good entry prices, convenience and opportunity to stay for long (decades). India does offer most of these. We have room to reduce operational hassles for global investors, simplify onboarding rules and make tax rates competitive. Making the economy robust and resilient solves for the durability of the opportunity.A lot of investor conversation on market outlook these days is focused more on FII selling than on valuations. Are valuations turning attractive enough at the index level to attract foreigners back?Indian markets are certainly more reasonably valued today than they were in September 2024. Share prices have largely remained flat for the last two years, while earnings have continued to grow, though at different rates across sectors. So, some of the excess valuations we saw earlier have gradually corrected.But I would not say everything is cheap. We are finding better value in larger companies, particularly in banks and insurance, while some parts of the mid- and small-cap market are still expensive. We have always believed that the price we pay for a business matters as much as the quality of the business itself.Foreign investors are looking at the same opportunities. India is a good economy with long-term growth potential, but a good economy and a good investment are not always the same thing. If we buy at very high valuations, even good earnings growth may not translate into good returns. As valuations become more reasonable and earnings continue to grow, I believe India will become increasingly attractive to global investors. We are optimistic about that, though I don't know exactly when foreign flows will return.
TN man files 97 RTI asking if ex-gf is still single
Jio, Airtel, Vi Asked To Strengthen Cyber Defence
CERT-In has issued several advisories warning against AI agents going rogue and cases of open-source agentic AI tools being used to survey and attack.
IPO Boom: 375 Issues Raise Rs 2.23 Trn
'The fact that nearly Rs 1 trillion came through fresh capital issuance is particularly encouraging, as it represents resources being channelled directly into business expansion, capacity creation, and growth.'
Buying gold or silver Lakshmi-Ganesha idols for Diwali puja? Know whether these idols fall under mandatory BIS hallmarking rules, how to verify HUID through the BIS Care app, and what to check about purity, weight, workmanship and making charges before purchase.
TheLiverDoc, Deepinder Goyal spar again
Hepatologist and social media personality Cyriac Abby Philips, popularly known as The Liver Doc, on Saturday took aim at Temple again, the wearable backed by Zomato founder and Eternal vice chairman Deepinder Goyal, calling its flagship Entropy metric a case of scienceploitation.This is the latest in a run of exchanges between the two over the past few days. Philips has led mounting criticism from doctors, while Goyal has publicly defended the product, saying Temple is a fitness and wellness device rather than a medical one.In his post, Philips defined scienceploitation as a tactic in which brands borrow the language of emerging science to sell unproven products. The term was coined by Timothy Caulfield of the University of Alberta.A device can produce a number without proving that the number means what its advertising says. That is the central problem with Temples Entropy, he wrote.— theliverdoc (@theliverdoc) The doctor argued that entropy means different things in physics and in heartbeat or brainwave analysis, and that measuring one does not mean measuring the other, or a persons overall health. Wearables can compute signal entropy, he said, but that does not reveal how much disorder a body holds or how long someone will live.Temples own research describes an optical sensor that detects blood-flow changes. That is useful for perfusion, he said, but does not capture whole-body metabolism or thermodynamic entropy. The calorimeter study Temple cites, he noted, never tested such a sensor. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, he wrote.— theliverdoc (@theliverdoc) He also disputed the claim that lower resting entropy means better health. Even the theoretical paper it cites discusses the importance of maintaining adequate entropy production and increasing it when needednot simply driving the resting value ever lower, Philips wrote. Metrics such as Resting Entropy, Entropy Max and Span, Philips said, lack validation, and combining readings into a new score does not fix that.Temple's visionOn Friday, Goyal shared his vision for Temple, explaining that the wearable device is being developed as a screenless, AI-powered personal companion that combines health tracking with voice-based interactions and everyday assistance.Goyal called Temple an ambitious project and said, The team is delusional enough to think we can build this. And we will. Here's what we are building. Join the ride.The company's long-term focus remains health and wellness, he said, adding that they are also working on features including automatic chewing detection for calorie tracking, snoring patterns, sleep positions, rapid eye movement (REM) tracking, and continuous core body temperature monitoring.
Forecasts from global models and the India Meteorological Department suggest that both basins could see activity build to another peak next week, keeping the South Peninsula on its toes
RBI's new gold loan rules introduce higher loan-to-value limits for small borrowers, transparent gold valuation and stronger auction safeguards. Understand the revised repayment conditions, jewellery return deadlines and compensation rules before pledging gold.
Winning at Diwali gifting: Ditch the mithai, bring on the bling
Diwali is celebrated with vibrant decorations, festive gatherings, and traditional rituals in India this year. Businesses are experiencing a significant increase in online sales leading up to the holidays. Families gather to enjoy rich cultural customs and unique gifting practices during this festive season. Various products, ranging from gold coins to luxury home items, are popular during this time.
Maharashtra allows 70 lakh farmers to register crops offline amid app glitches
The state revenue department has authorised talathi-level inspections in areas where technical problems prevent farmers from completing online crop registration.
K'taka postmaster runs away with deposit, dept pays
Bengaluru-Goa Vande Bharat to disrupt 13 trains
Father wins back his land given to daughter
India's Dhanteras sales touch 1.25 lakh crore; nearly 3.5% of Pakistan's annual GDP
India's Dhanteras retail sales touched a record 1.25 lakh crore, equivalent to nearly 3.5% of Pakistan's annual GDP. Several cities and districts, including Prayagraj, Bhadohi and Katihar, reported festive business exceeding or touching 300 crore.
Global gas supplies to tighten this winter due to Strait of Hormuz LNG shock, warns IEA
The scope for increasing pipeline gas supplies remains limited, as long-distance pipelines generally operate close to their designed capacity, restricting their ability to offset LNG supply shortages
Pay Commission: West Bengal's 7th panel will cover non-teaching staff of state-aided universities and education boards and examine their existing pay structure and service conditions. Here's all we know
Delhi Metro to start services at 6 am on Diwali
Sanjeev Kapoors signature thalis feature in Singapore Airlines 14,664-crore upgrade
The airlines revamped dining programme will span all cabin classes, bringing signature creations from six internationally recognised chefs to passengers
Hyundai Bayon: A New SUV Positioned Between Creta And Venue
Hyundai introduces the Bayon, a new SUV positioned between the popular Creta and Venue models, targeting the growing SUV market. Priced between Rs 10-18 lakh, the Bayon offers a CNG powertrain and a naturally aspirated petrol engine, distinguishing itself from its siblings. This review covers its design, interior features, driving experience, and market appeal, highlighting its technology-conscious approach.
Gold ETF folios surged 164% in three years, outpacing large-cap mutual funds. A recent study flags investor FOMO amid the gold rally and cautions against deviating from the recommended 5-10% gold allocation in portfolios.
Delhi schools to hold classes up to Class 5 in hybrid mode as pollution worsens
The Delhi Directorate of Education has mandated that all schools offer hybrid classes for students up to class 5. This decision comes in response to the deteriorating air quality in the national capital. Classes will allow for both in-person and online attendance to accommodate students' needs. School heads must notify parents and guardians about these arrangements promptly. Education officials will visit schools to ensure the implementation of these new directives.
Indias renewable energy capacity to reach 530 GW by 2030, solar to drive growth
Competitive auctions, supportive policies, falling technology costs and rising industrial demand are expected to underpin Indias renewable energy expansion over the next five years
How automation can help agricultural input manufacturers prepare for seasonal demand
Automation should be combined with demand forecasts, feedback from distributors, inventory management, and equipment maintenance to prepare manufacturers for peaks
Why transparency, traceability are the next big differentiators in Indias dairy market
The dairy companies that win the next decade will be those that can answer a simple question every parent asks: where did this milk come from?
Gold Price Correction Boosts Dhanteras Sales
In Mumbai, 24-carat gold was priced at Rs 1.49 lakh per 10 gm, while 22-carat gold was at Rs 137,500.
ED investigates foreign entities over India meddling
OMCs reject Karnatakas high-ethanol fuel claim
From farmers challenges to product solutions: How R&D can improve agricultural productivity
By combining scientific rigor with field experience, agricultural R&D can turn innovation into lasting value where it matters most: on the farm
DA hike news: The Karnataka govt raised dearness allowance and dearness relief for state employees and pensioners by 2.5% to 18%, effective July 1, 2026. Arunachal Pradesh also approved a 3% increase, to 63%.
While popular stocks feature across hundreds of mutual fund schemes, some stocks find a place in just one scheme's portfolio. Here is the list of 13 such uncommon picks, the schemes holding them, and what these fund managers' distinct stock-selection approaches mean for investors.
China's giant pandas make debut at US zoo
Atlanta: Giant pandas Ping Ping and Fu Shuang delighted visitors to Zoo Atlanta during their public debut Friday, chewing bamboo and lounging in their new US habitat while on loan from China.A male named Ping Ping and female Fu Shuang arrived from Chengdu in September via a FedEx flight dubbed the Panda Express, and are to be hosted in the southern US facility for the next 10 years.Pandas are animals that have got a unique ability to inspire curiosity, instill passion, evoke joy, and unite people around the globe, CEO Raymond King told onlookers at Zoo Atlanta.This extraordinary spirit of partnership helps create a future for a species that is truly beloved the world over.In preparation for their arrival, Zoo Atlanta has renovated its panda facilities and assembled a team of animal caretakers.It has also ensured a stable and long-term supply of bamboo, grown locally in Atlanta, which has a climate that is very similar to Chengdu.I think they inspire happiness, zoo visitor Rachel Totts told AFP on Friday. They make people smile. I've never seen someone not say 'Oh, it's so cute!' when they're looking at a panda.Soft, furry power Native to temperate forest habitats in East Asia, the lumbering black-and-white mammals do not typically travel long distances in the wild.But many have been shipped to zoos around the world as apart of Beijing's decades-long panda diplomacy program to foster foreign ties.The furry show of soft power came as top US officials on Friday called on China to uphold the trade agreement made in an October 2025 meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.The accord calmed tensions after a whirlwind of tariff hikes, and required China to buy US soybeans while suspending export controls on rare earths.Before 2016 pandas were considered endangered but are now listed as vulnerable by wildlife advocates, and an estimated 1,800 pandas live in the wild.The Chinese government has established more than 50 panda reserves for conservation, but in the wild the bears continue to face threats of habitat loss and poaching.Panda pairs Atlanta previously hosted pandas on loan from China starting in 1999, and seven panda cubs have been born at the zoo. All are now back in Chengdu, and Zoo Atlanta has not had any pandas since 2024.Atlanta native John Perez celebrated his 28th birthday at Zoo Atlanta on Friday, telling AFP the pandas drew him to visit for the first time because it felt perfect, you know?Both of the new arrivals were born in 2020, and it's hoped they will be suitable mates. Pandas in captivity typically live for around 30 years.In 1972, China gifted a pair of pandas to Washington, following US president Richard Nixon's historic visit to the Communist nation.Beijing recalled two of its pandas from Japan early this year, following a diplomatic spat that began when Japan's prime minister hinted that Tokyo could intervene militarily in the event of any attack on Taiwan.
Noel Tata to exit Titan board on November 12
AIRF has submitted six key demands to the 8th Pay Commission, seeking higher railway employee salaries, better promotions, risk allowances, track maintainer parity and improved service benefits. Here's what railway staff want from the new pay panel.
Delhi AQI: National capitals air remains toxic
Talks underway for historic Xi-Trump-Putin meet
How have Indian equity mutual fund returns compared with global markets over the past 30 years? A look at SIP and lump-sum performance across 15 countries offers insights for investors exploring long-term wealth creation and international diversification.
Matthew Wright, the esteemed producer behind the Ellen DeGeneres Show, passed away in Los Angeles on October 30, 2026. His demise was linked to cardiopulmonary arrest caused by hypertension and various health issues. In response, a GoFundMe page has been initiated to assist his family with funeral and memorial expenses. Ellen DeGeneres and Andy Lassner generously contributed to help cover these costs.
Bank holiday today: Check if public and private sector lenders including the State Bank of India and HDFC Bank will be open for customers across India on Saturday, 7 November, ahead of Diwali on Sunday.
Germanys Economy Recovers, But Companies Cut Investment As Bankruptcies Rise
Germany may be showing signs of economic recovery, but businesses remain deeply cautious. Nearly one in three companies plans to reduce investment, while only one in five manufacturers expects to expand capacity. Corporate bankruptcies are also rising, affecting thousands of jobs. With high energy, raw material and labour costs, when will Germanys economy truly turn around?#Germany #GermanEconomy #EconomicCrisis #Business #Investment #Bankruptcies #JobLosses #Industry #Europe #Economy
Ankur Warikoo highlights five money habits that can keep you poor, from improper budgeting and high-interest debt to lifestyle inflation and delayed investing. Learn how to fix them this Diwali to strengthen savings and build long-term wealth.
The Economic Times wishes you and your loved ones a very happy and prosperous Diwali 2026
Dhanteras brings out best retail day of year
Videocon's Venugopal Dhoot declared bankrupt over Rs 12,668-cr SBI dues
The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has declared former Videocon Industries promoter Venugopal Dhoot bankrupt, admitting State Bank of India's petition for Rs 12,668 crore in dues. A Bankruptcy Trustee has been appointed to manage the process and invite claims from creditors.
Auto Sector Reports Strong Dhanteras Deliveries, Expects Diwali Boost
India's auto sector has reported robust vehicle deliveries during Dhanteras, with major automakers like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, and Hyundai India experiencing significant growth across two-wheeler, passenger vehicle, and commercial vehicle segments. This strong momentum is expected to continue through Diwali, driven by positive market sentiment and high demand, even in the pre-owned car market.
EU's 2030 move puts single-use sachets in focus
Now, over 70 years since they were invented, single-serve tomato ketchup sachets are slated to become contraband from 2030 under the European Union's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. Maybe in the future, secret stashes of them will find their way on to the dark web (or its future equivalent) to be picked up for a fortune by collectors and hoarded away in airtight vaults. Even further in the future, they will be unearthed as 20th century material culture.A newly rekindled romance with Europe has seen the current Labour-led British government there become willin', Barkis-like, to adopt rules that routinely used to make their Conservative predecessors see red. And that has now led to talk of an outrageous assault on a familiar and beloved table accessory in countless British pubs and eateries: sachets of not only single-serve ketchup but also mayonnaise, mustard and vinegar, usually reposing in a convenient bowl.Also Read: Why best leaders don't try to save the worldNo doubt back in 1955, Messrs Harold Ross and Yale Kaplan did yeoman service to the food trade by apportioning the right amount of condiment and ensconcing it in a sachet that required less energy to open and dispense than bottles or jars. Bigger receptacles were messy and wasteful it was believed, and sachets offered a clean and ordered - read, pre-measured - alternative that required no thought. Clearly, they had read the average convenience junkie's mind perfectly.Of course, the primary beneficiary of these prepackaged condiments were eateries themselves. Which business would not want to obviate the chance of wasteful or butter-fingered customers dispensing more from bottles than necessary? The extra packing cost per unit of ketchup is recouped by lower wastage even though the sachets are offered free. Not many such sachets go waste anyway, even if a few brazen types grab handfuls of each to go with their fish and chips.Few humans can resist the allure of those sauce packets in our current stage of evolution. This writer included. When any of those come in my standard airline meal, I sagely tuck them into my bag rather than hand them back unopened along with my empty tray to the cabin crew. Ditto for wet tissue sachets, sugar packets, miniature jam and butter tubs and small water bottles. Is that wastage or thriftiness on my part? All my travel bags have a few tucked away from last time...Single-use sachets have become all pervasive in India, from pickles to shampoo, biscuits to spices, ointments to detergents. Speaking anecdotally, though, pan masala and gutka sachets appear to be the most pernicious. Those shiny, empty sachets find their way into every nook and cranny; most disturbingly they turn up even in the garden soil when I am repotting a plant. Millions of thoughtlessly chucked sachets now clog up our water bodies, forests and farmlands.Our planet would be better off without all sachets, but this EU regulation exempts takeaway food. So those ubiquitous oregano and chilli flakes sachets that arrive with pizza and burger orders will still be available for stockpiling by human packrats after 2030. Hospitals and nursing homes will also be exempt, on grounds of hygiene and safety. EU being EU, alternatives are also helpfully listed: refillable sauce dispensers, small bowls for jam and jugs for creamers.The EU regulation is aimed only at establishments that provide these to those who dine in. But there is a case to draw a line under this brilliant 20th century invention - for the sake of future centuries. Pre-portioned packaging really underestimates humans: we can go to the moon and deep space but cannot use a squeezy jar or a bottle at a fast-food restaurant or at home for ketchup or mustard? Single-use plastics are the most dispensable of inventions, pun intended.
Federal Reserve officials are weighing the inflationary risks from strong economic activity and the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure, even as they signal the need for more data before determining the next steps on interest rates, Bloomberg reported.For live updates on US Markets, click here New York Fed President John Williams said inflation remained too high, although other indicators were not yet pointing to broader concerns. Speaking at an event hosted by the European Central Bank in Frankfurt on Friday, he backed the Fed's position that policymakers should gather more information before deciding the appropriate course for monetary policy.Inflation is absolutely too high, Williams said, while noting that wage growth remained consistent with the central bank's 2% inflation target and inflation expectations were well anchored.Fed weighs inflation against economic resilienceWilliams said monetary policy had an important role in preventing temporary price shocks from spreading into broader or more persistent inflation.Also Read: Federal Reserve rate hike bets strengthen as US jobs growth beats estimatesOur FOMC statement last meeting, I think, captures correctly that this is an appropriate time to accumulate more information to help us determine what the appropriate stance of policy is to make make sure we achieve a timely return to our 2% target, he said, according to the Bloomberg report.The Fed held interest rates steady at its previous meeting after raising its benchmark rate by 25 basis points in September to a range of 3.75%-4%. Policymakers have since emphasised the need for additional information while keeping the possibility of further rate increases open, Bloomberg reported.The central bank's preferred inflation gauge, the personal consumption expenditures price index, rose 3.6% in September from a year earlier. Underlying inflation measures that exclude food and energy also increased. Meanwhile, the US economy expanded at its fastest pace in a year in the quarter ended September.AI infrastructure raises fresh inflation concernsSeparately, St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem warned that the rapid build-out of AI infrastructure could add to near-term inflationary pressures, Bloomberg reported.When I look at inflation, excess inflation today, its coming both from negative supply shocks related to the Middle East and demand forces coming related to the AI build, Musalem said.While acknowledging AI's potential to improve productivity over time, he cautioned against shaping current monetary policy around benefits that may take years to materialise.We need to make monetary policy for the economy of the day, he said. We cannot make monetary policy for the economy as it may be five years from now.(Disclaimer: This article is based on inputs from agencies. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
Why is Trump's 'Doomsday Plane' flying across US?
Corporate gifting gets an artful makeover
Dhanteras: Gold Sales Up 15-20% by Value, Volumes Flat
Indian jewellers reported robust demand for gold and silver on Dhanteras, with gold sales by value estimated to increase by 15-20 per cent to approximately Rs 60,000 crore, driven by a recent drop in prices. However, volumes are expected to remain flat compared to last year due to overall higher price levels.
Nearly 30 Indian investors reportedly lost more than 100 crore after their Stockal Securities accounts were allegedly accessed without authorization. How to file a complain.
A Chandigarh consumer commission directed UCO Bank to pay 15,000 to a widow after finding that its delay in revising her family pension amounted to deficiency in service. The commission said later payment of arrears did not erase the hardship and mental harassment caused.
Netflix has unveiled plans for a live action prequel series titled Other Worlds: A Stranger Things Adventure, which will delve into various characters and supernatural tales set in the 1950s. Spearheaded by co-creator Kate Trefry and director Joe Wright, this project seeks to broaden the beloved Stranger Things universe. With production slated for New Mexico, fans can anticipate its premiere in 2028 while enjoying older seasons.
The appliance has separate storage for flour and water, along with a glass container for the sourdough starter. Users load flour and water into their respective compartments and keep their starter in the glass crock. The measured quantities of flour and water are automatically dispensed by the machine. The ingredients are mixed into the starter according to the selected feeding schedule.
NBFC credit to gold jewellery, consumer durables grows over 50 pc in Sep: RBI data
In September 2026, non-banking finance companies' credit to gold jewellery and consumer durables surged significantly. Credit for gold jewellery rose by 66.1 per cent to Rs 3.74 lakh crore compared to the previous year. Consumer durables also saw a 54.4 per cent increase in credit, reaching Rs 77,896 crore. Overall, credit growth for NBFCs stood at 15.4 per cent, totaling Rs 61.69 lakh crore.
The commission found that the developer had violated the terms of the agreement by selling the same property to another buyer despite having already accepted money from the original purchasers.
Frontier Raas opens new store in Ahmedabad, Kangana Ranaut attends inauguration as Chief Guest
Indian ethnic and occasionwear brand Frontier Raas inaugurated its new store in Ahmedabad on November 1, 2026, marking another step in its retail expansion. Actor Kangana Ranaut attended the inauguration as the chief guest, alongside prominent business personalities, leading families and members of the city's fashion and cultural communities.
Govt to re-launch Bharat rice as prices rise, asks stakeholders to declare stock
The agencies have also been directed to explore all possible distribution channels to ensure wider reach and easy accessibility of Bharat Rice to consumers, the Food Ministry said in a statement
Air India weighs returning two office towers as cost-saving drive widens
Work-from-home policy being developed for affected staff; airline also trims international services
Central government employees GPF savings are distributed under rules governing nominations and eligible family members. Here's who can claim the funds if no nominee exists.
Tea Board puts revised factory licensing guidelines on hold
businessline had reported that tea manufacturers in Coonoor had protested against the Boards notification restricting fresh applications for setting up new tea factories
Auto sector sees strong Dhanteras deliveries, expects momentum to continue till Diwali
Automakers and dealerships reported strong Dhanteras deliveries following robust Navratri sales, with Maruti Suzuki expecting over 30,000 deliveries and Tata Motors targeting 12,000 units. Hyundai anticipates nearly 14% growth in festive deliveries. Dealers reported healthy demand across vehicle segments, while the pre-owned car market also witnessed a significant sales uptick.
Paras Defence, BroadPak Partner For Advanced Chip Packaging In India
An Indian defence engineering company, Paras Defence and Space Technologies, has partnered with US-based BroadPak Corporation to accelerate the development of advanced semiconductor packaging capabilities in India. This collaboration aims to establish a facility for heterogeneous integration and 3D packaging, focusing on critical technologies for AI, high-performance computing, and defence applications.
India's Forex Reserves Drop to $717 Billion
India's foreign exchange reserves saw a decline of $2.691 billion, settling at $717.056 billion for the week ending October 30, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This marks a continued reduction from the all-time high recorded in September.
E-way bill generation hits fresh record of 156.21 million in October
E-way bill generation rose 23.14 per cent year-on-year to 156.21 million in October, reflecting stronger festive demand, higher goods movement and improved GST compliance
Heavy rain, flood forecast for New York
India's AI Focus: Application Capital Of The World
Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reiterated India's commitment to becoming the world's artificial intelligence (AI) application capital. This focus comes amidst a global downturn in AI stocks, with Vaishnaw acknowledging the industry's rapidly changing environment. India aims to deploy AI across various sectors for large-scale transformation.
Govt working on telecom PLI with focus on higher local value addition
The Ministry of Communications is preparing to propose a second edition of the telecom production-linked incentive scheme. This new scheme will emphasize design-led higher value addition in the telecom sector. The first edition of the telecom PLI scheme attracted significant investments and involved approvals from numerous companies. Additionally, incentives under design-led manufacturing have been applied for by several firms. The proposal will undergo inter-ministerial consultation before seeking Union Cabinet approval.
Jewellers report brisk Dhanteras sales as gold price drop lures buyers; volumes seen flat
Volumes, however, are likely to remain roughly flat from a year earlier because prices are still well above last year's levels, said Rajesh Rokde, chairman of the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC).
FDA suspends 105 food business licences, Blinkit, Zepto among them; orders closure of 7 outlets
Maharashtra FDA has suspended the licences of 105 food outlets, including those linked to Blinkit and Zepto, and ordered seven establishments to shut following inspections ahead of Diwali. The two-day drive uncovered hygiene and food safety violations, leading to the seizure of 39,485 kg of food articles worth Rs 1.35 crore.
India to become worlds second largest RE growth market by 2031: IEA
Chinas declining share of global renewables capacity growth is shifting market focus to India, says IEA
Airlines seek Civil Aviation Ministry help for restoration of Mumbai airport slots
The latest representation follows Mumbai airports decision to deny summer schedule slots to foreign airlines
India, Canada race to speed up free trade pact ahead of Modis visit next month
Canadian Minister expected in Delhi next week with trade team for the sixth negotiating round to narrow gaps
Sugar output jumps to nearly 13 lakh tonnes so far in 2026-27 market year: ISMA
Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), in a statement on Friday, said the 184 sugar mills have commenced crushing operations across the country as of November 5, 2026, compared to 154 mills during the corresponding period of the preceding year.
Dead animals, rat poison found at Ohio farm
CBSE announces Class 10, 12 board exam dates
Weather in next 15-20 days crucial for Rabi sowing to narrow deficit
The weather is very dynamic and the district wise contingency plan for the Rabi season is also constantly getting updated, said M L Jat, director general of ICAR
Air India starts using Iraq airspace to save fuel
West Asia conflict brings together India, EU to enhance wind energy trade
While India provides manufacturing scale and cost effectiveness, EU brings in the technology know-how
States' capital outlay may rise 10-12% to 8.5 trillion in FY27: Crisil
Higher central support under the SASCI scheme and improved fiscal headroom are expected to boost states' capital spending, with urban infrastructure driving growth in H2FY27
NHAI issues guidelines to standardise design and infrastructure for multi-lane free flow tolling
NHAI, in a statement, said the guidelines will ensure that upcoming and ongoing national highway projects are equipped to support MLFF-based barrier-free toll collection without requiring vehicles to stop at toll booths.
Dasgupta says there is enough land available at present in the State to take care of the initial demand for the next two to three years
Pressure on rupee continues in Samvat 2082; 10-year bond yields harden
The rupee depreciated 6.37 per cent against the dollar in Samvat 2082 amid FPI outflows and global uncertainty, while the benchmark 10-year bond yield rose 69 basis points
ADNOC inks 10-year LNG supply and purchase agreement with Gujarat Energy
This would be ADNOCs fifth long-term LNG supply agreement with India.
U.S. economy added 165,000 jobs in October, way more than expected; unemployment rate slips to 4.1%
Nonfarm payrolls were expected to increase by 59,000 in October as the unemployment rate held steady at 4.2%. U.S. economy added 165,000 jobs in October, way more than expected; unemployment rate slips to 4.1%
Cane crushing to gain momentum in Karnataka with farmers ending protest
Belagavi mills agree to 3,600 per tonne for 2026-27 season; protesting growers demand 4,500 and a State Advised Price
Premium Kashmiri apples find growing demand in southern markets amid Iran supply disruptions
The demand has been particularly strong in markets in Chennai and Kerala, where consumers have a preference for high-quality apples, traders said
Government focuses on scientific research into solutions for coastal communities: MoES Secretary
Highlighting key initiatives of the Ministry, Kumar said the Deep Ocean Mission focuses on exploring the deep sea, developing indigenous technologies and strengthening ocean observation services
