20 C 
INDIA bloc leaders to hold online meeting
New Delhi: An online meeting of the INDIA bloc will be held on Thursday evening to discuss the roadmap for protests regarding the vote chori issue and to press for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, sources said.Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge will chair the meeting, which will also review the preparations for the INDIA bloc's rally in Delhi on November 1, they said.Last week, the protests over the vote theft charge reached the Supreme Court's doorstep.On October 12, opposition stalwarts, joined by activists and civil society members, took part in a March for Democracy along a heavily barricaded route and filed a joint petition against Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging poll irregularities, in a major show of strength in the national capital.Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also hosted INDIA bloc leaders for tea at his home on October 13. After the meeting, the opposition bloc vowed to continue resisting and take the vote chori fight to its logical conclusion.
Indian embassy issues France advisory
Bond yield rises to 7.44% on higher oil prices, global cues
Mumbai: Yields on the 10-year benchmark bond increased 5 basis points from their previous close due to high oil prices to their weakest level since March 2023. The 10-year yield closed at 7.44%, a three-and-a-half year high, versus its previous close of 7.39%, CCIL data showed.Separately, the Reserve Bank of India rejected all bids at the treasury bill auction on Wednesday amid a rise in short term yields. The government had planned to raise 23,000 crores through the sale of 91-day, 182-day and 364-day treasury bills. Traders said the cutoff yields likely came in above the central bank's comfort level. The last time RBI cancelled a t-bill auction was in early June.Read more: Jio Platforms' IPO-linked inflows boost rupee; elevated oil prices spur cautionHigh oil prices, global yield pressure, FII selling and global fundamentals, nothing is working in our favour right now. The market is clearly signalling a 50 basis point hike in December, it is also seen from RBIs action in the T-bill auction today, said Anshul Chandak, head of treasury, RBL Bank.Read more: Sundaram Mutual Fund announces launch of Equity Ex-Top 100 Long Short Fund through its SIF platform SelectThe benchmark Brent crude stayed above $110 per barrel after nearing $112 on Tuesday, its highest in five months. Indian markets were shut on Tuesday for Dussehra. Oil prices were at $107 per barrel when Indian markets closed on Monday.High oil prices stoke inflation concerns, adding pressure on local currency and bonds, as India is a net importer of the commodity.In the T-bill auction, banks bid at yields at least 15 basis points higher than in the previous week's auction, a trader at a large state-run bank said.
'$50K fraud': Florida AG Uthmeier announces arrest of Kissimmee mayor accused in scam case
US midterms polls 2026 prediction: The US Constitution says that states have the primary authority for the administration of elections. Voter rolls cannot be changed on a major scale less than 90 days before an election.
RBI flags widening inflation risks, puts rate cuts on ice
RBI's Monetary Policy Committee raised the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points to address rising inflation concerns. Governor Sanjay Malhotra indicated a generalisation of inflation, with many commodities exceeding 4% inflation. Deputy Governor Poonam Gupta highlighted the influence of external supply-side shocks on inflation projections. External members expressed concerns about the implications of an aggressive rate hike on economic growth.
Slew of Sops to help fuel ships' shift to methanol
India is considering methanol as the primary fuel option for ships to support a green transition. The government plans to implement tax concessions and flexible compliance to encourage this shift. Officials are analyzing various suggestions to enhance the infrastructure and regulatory environment for methanol usage. Work is already in progress to improve local availability and establish refueling facilities.
HDFC Bank begins probe into alleged internal data leak
HDFC Bank is currently investigating potential leaks of confidential information to social media and other outsiders. This internal review aims to assess compliance with the bank's code of conduct and governance standards. The investigation specifically examines communications involving senior management and other sensitive issues. HDFC Bank confirmed the review process after allegations arose regarding two senior executives' involvement.
Critical tech list under review to push self-reliance
India's Niti Aayog is preparing a list of critical technologies for enhancing self-reliance and investment. This initiative aims to protect against disruptions due to limited access to essential technologies. Potential technologies include 6G, defence equipment, and electric vehicle powertrains. The government seeks to encourage innovation through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation and other funds. A comprehensive roadmap is expected to be finalized and released next month.
Core output grows at series high of 7.9% in Sept
India's core sector output growth for September recorded a remarkable 7.9%, driven largely by expansion in coal and electricity. Notably, refinery products and iron ore also contributed to this growth, supported by a favorable base effect. Coal production saw a sharp rebound with a growth rate of 10.7% following previous negative trends. Electricity generation growth declined slightly, impacted by heatwave conditions in the country.
Piyush Goyal to explore trade, investment avenues in Germany & Netherlands
Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal is set to visit Germany and the Netherlands for trade engagements. He will participate in the Berlin Global Dialogue and meet various government officials in Germany. The focus will be on technological cooperation, clean technology, and the India-EU FTA negotiations. In the Netherlands, Goyal will hold ministerial meetings to explore expanded trade channels and green transition initiatives.
'India a rising star in Swiss watch exports mkt'
Import window for duty-free raw sugar extended till Dec 31
The government has extended the deadline for duty-free imports of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar to December 31, as domestic imports have lagged at just 3 lakh tonnes due to price control measures. This decision aims to mitigate supply constraints following record high sugar prices linked to reduced domestic production and exports.
Car registrations plunge 22% this Navratri
Mumbai: Even as carmakers said deliveries this Navratri were robust, car registrations declined sharply, according to provisional data from the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA). Passenger vehicle registrations fell 21.9% to 1.83 lakh units between October 11 and 20, the steepest drop among all vehicle categories.The fall largely reflects a high base. Last year's Navratri coincided with the rollout of GST 2.0, after sales had come to a standstill for half of August and almost all of September. This year, momentum continued even through Shradh, a period considered inauspicious.Also Read: Navratri shoppers splurge on clothes, appliances as gadgets get pricierThe dip is largely optical: last year Navratri ran 11 days against ten and coincided with the GST 2.0 rollout, said FADA president Sai Giridhar.Maruti Suzuki India, the largest carmaker, said Navratri deliveries were about 98% of last year, and it could have sold more with better supply. Non-availability of vehicles is an issue. If I had more, we would have sold more. Every dealer is asking for more, said Partho Banerjee, senior executive officer-sales and marketing at Maruti. The company gets 12,000-12,500 bookings daily but can supply only 8,000-8,500. Pending bookings rose to 2.7 lakh after Dussehra from about 2 lakh at the start of October.Also Read: Carmakers gear up with multi-powertrain models as Indian buyers shift beyond petrol, dieselJATO Dynamics data shows registrations of petrol, diesel and CNG cars at the top makers fell 5.2% to 1.69 lakh units. Maruti registered 74,387 cars, up 0.1%. Tata Motors fell 16.4% to 24,843 units, Hyundai 2.7% to 19,706 and Kia 9.3% to 9,731, while Mahindra & Mahindra rose 6.6% to 20,681. It said electric car registrations also fell 5.1% to 11,478 units.Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles said demand remained strong. The response during Navratri has been particularly encouraging, with over 50,000 vehicles delivered during this festive period, including more than 10,000 on Dussehra alone, said Amit Kamat, chief commercial officer, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles.Hyundai Motor India said registrations during Shradh and Navratri grew 30% to nearly 41,000 units. Considering the pace of bookings, we expect momentum to continue through Dhanteras and Diwali, said chief executive officer Tarun Garg.Dealers said the real picture will emerge in a few days. We will get to know the real picture after a few days as Vahan portal captures registration with a lag, said a dealer principal.
Rubio, Mukesh Ambani discuss energy, technology partnerships at Jamnagar
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio toured Reliance's Jamnagar refinery and discussed energy supplies, technology, data centres and potential commercial partnerships with Mukesh Ambani.
Nepal PM Balen Shah may visit India in Nov
Two New York women, Judith Jones and Carolyn Kenyon, raised $12,500 in four months to help erase $1.5 million in medical debt for 1,284 strangers. Their fundraising campaign supported R.I.P. Medical Debt, a nonprofit that buys overdue medical bills at heavily discounted prices and cancels them. The initiative also highlighted how medical expenses can create long-term financial problems.
Large UPI transfers do not automatically trigger income tax notices, but unexplained bank credits can attract scrutiny. From freelancers to individuals receiving money for others, here's when digital transactions may raise red flags and what records to keep.
A 13-year-old teen girl from Massachusetts, Kaia Minn, has developed biodegradable seed pods using discarded citrus peels and other plant-based materials after being inspired by wildfire reports from California and Canada. The pods are designed to protect seeds during early growth before decomposing naturally, with potential applications in forest restoration, agriculture and gardening. Further outdoor testing is needed to establish their effectiveness.
In light of critical vulnerabilities discovered in PHP, numerous websites have been taken offline. The FBI has strongly recommended that organizations either update their PHP installations or disconnect vulnerable systems. Cybersecurity experts warn that these flaws pose a significant risk of data theft and cyberattacks. In response, website administrators are implementing urgent maintenance. Users are encouraged to exercise caution and adhere to online safety protocols.
Meta ordered to pay New Mexico $25 billion after jury finds it deceived Facebook users about privacy
Jurors in September found Meta liable for over 43 million violations of New Mexico consumer protection laws when a political consulting firm, Cambridge Analytica, harvested Facebook user data to generate targeted political ads for the 2016 election.
Google rolls out Gemini Personal Intelligence to Android Auto, brings AI to Apple CarPlay
The updates extend Googles AI assistant across in-car platforms, with optional access to personal data and navigation-based features for drivers.
'Sally Rooney is a writer, not a terrorist': Authors
FSSAI notices to Nestle, Abbott, others for 'illegal' infant formula ads
India's food regulator, FSSAI, has issued notices to Nestle India, Abbott Healthcare, Nutricia International, Mead Johnson Nutrition (India), and social media influencer Ira Fathima for 'illegal' advertising and promotion of infant milk substitutes on Instagram.
A man earning an estimated Rs 3 lakh a month cannot comfortably afford a Rs 15 lakh to Rs 18 lakh car because much of his income is committed to a home loan EMI, mutual fund SIPs and regular expenses. His situation, shared by a Reddit user, led to a debate about whether high earners are financially struggling or simply prioritising wealth creation over spending
Mumbai Port invites global bids for Rs 922.67 crore marina at Victoria Dock
Mumbai Port Authority has initiated a global bidding process for the Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina project. This project, estimated to cost Rs 922.67 crore, will be developed using the DBFOT model. It encompasses a water area of 37.3 hectares and aims to accommodate 604 yachts at full build-out. Marine works such as breakwater construction and dredging are already underway as per the submitted plans.
He intended to convey that Dussehra symbolises the triumph of good over evil and the eventual defeat of wickedness. However, his verbal slip soon attracted widespread attention online, with the video rapidly circulating across social media platforms and sparking reactions from internet users.
In a social media post on Wednesday, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said it also issued notices to Ira Fathima, Nutricia International and Mead Johnson Nutrition (India).
AI Startups To Boost India's Market Cap By USD 100 Billion
A foreign brokerage predicts that private investments in Indian AI startups are rapidly growing, with potential listings adding up to USD 100 billion to India's market capitalisation over the next two to five years. Goldman Sachs reported a tripling of PE investment in Indian AI startups in 2025 and highlighted India's rising global rank in AI funding and new AI companies.
NaBFID gets Finance Ministry, RBI nod for national infrastructure project repository
NaBFID has obtained approvals from the finance ministry and the Reserve Bank of India to establish a national repository. This repository will offer consolidated information on infrastructure projects for lenders and investors. The platform aims to facilitate access to data sourced from various government agencies like NHAI and others. NaBFID is considering partnerships with financial institutions to enhance the repository's effectiveness.
El Nio may reach unprecedented strength, raising global weather risks: WMO
Pacific Ocean temperatures could rise 3.8C above average during November-January, increasing risks of drought, floods and extreme heat
Agrivoltaics on 10% of suitable land can meet 2050 power demand: Pralhad Joshi
Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy also stated the government is working to add a dedicated component for agrivoltaics in the second phase of PM-Kusum.
I&B ministry cautions TV channels against AI misuse, calls for stronger editorial oversight
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory regarding AI use in news broadcasts. It cautioned channels to strengthen editorial oversight while adhering to the Programme Code. Concerns were raised about similar broadcasts and violations relating to sensitive content coverage. Broadcasters are encouraged to undertake regular training for editorial staff to ensure compliance. Violations of the Programme Code could lead to regulatory actions under applicable laws.
Celebrity-endorsed TV ad volumes fall 17% as sports stars gain ground
Celebrity-endorsed television ad volumes saw a 17% decline from last year in January to September. Shah Rukh Khan and Mahendra Singh Dhoni stood out as the most visible celebrity endorsers. Film actors accounted for 65% of endorsed ads, while sports personalities increased their share from 19% to 28%. Food and beverages led in advertising volume, with toilet and floor cleaners attracting the most attention.
SBI assures customers that account balances remain safe after a recent data leak, saying very few customers were affected and banking operations remain secure with no major disruption.
Karanataka sugarcane farmers suspend agitation
CM writes to PM seeking early revision of sugar MSP, restoring FRP base to 9.5%
Term insurance provides a death benefit to beneficiaries during a fixed policy term, helping families manage debts and future expenses. Here's why a claim can get rejected.
Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority reconstituted
HDFC Bank probes alleged data leak by senior executives
HDFC Bank has initiated an internal enquiry into the alleged leak of confidential information by two senior executives, with investigators examining whether the disclosed information was misused.
India's advertising sector is experiencing a transformative phase driven by innovations in artificial intelligence and the rise of the creator economy. Marketers are prioritizing agencies that provide tangible business outcomes over mere media optimization. As a result, there is a transition in advertising budgets from traditional celebrity endorsements to content created by influencers.
Supply shocks and strong demand push MPC towards pre-emptive rate action
Sundeep Kishan and Faria Abdullahs Tamil action entertainer Sigma is awaiting its digital debut after releasing in theatres on October 2, 2026. Directed by Jason Sanjay, son of actor-turned-politician Vijay, the film follows a treasure hunter who assembles a team for a big heist after being betrayed. Featuring a mix of action, adventure and comedy, the film also stars Raju Sundaram, Sampath Raj and Shiv Panditt in supporting roles.
Rubio tours Reliances Jamnagar refinery, pushes energy ties
Indias share of LPG imports from the US surged to 67% from 10% over the past year, making it the countrys largest supplier, says Sergio Gor
In Landenberg, Pennsylvania, a couple has transformed a historic Catholic church into a modern family home. This church, which dates back to 1893, has retained its original architectural details after renovation. The former altar area now features a kitchen, while the choir loft has become a main bedroom. The renovation has improved energy efficiency through a geothermal heating system and updated insulation.
Jio Platforms IPO fully subscribed in 100 minutes, fastest mega issue
Jio Platforms Ltd's Rs 30,213-crore initial public offering (IPO) achieved full subscription within 100 minutes of opening, making it the fastest among India's mega issues, surpassing previous records set by companies like Reliance Power.
Core Sector Growth Rises to 7.9% in September
India's core infrastructure industries recorded a significant growth of 7.9 per cent in September 2026, up from 3.1 per cent in the previous year, primarily fuelled by robust performances in iron ore, electricity, and cement production.
Aarohi Surya left her annual job in Dubai that paid Rs 1.1 crore to start Dancing Cow, a plant-based oat milk brand, in India in 2022. Co-founded with her partner, Anmol Goel, and supported by Rs 65 lakh in personal funds, the startup achieved Rs 2.2 crore in revenue for FY25, catering to more than 1.25 lakh customers.
RBI imposes restrictions on Puducherry Co-op Urban Bank, caps withdrawals
The Reserve Bank of India imposed restrictions on Puducherry Co-operative Urban Bank due to financial instability. Customers are limited to withdrawals of Rs 5,000 over the next six months. The bank's recent lack of compliance with supervisory concerns prompted these regulatory actions. Eligible depositors can claim up to Rs 5 lakh through the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation.
Ramayana: Part One to arrive on JioHotstar via pay-per-view after theatrical run
JioHotstar has announced a partnership with Prime Focus Studios for Ramayana: Part One's pay-per-view release. The film will premiere in cinemas worldwide on November 5, 2026, coinciding with Diwali celebrations. It will be available in multiple languages, including IMAX 3D format, enhancing viewing experiences. After its theatrical run, audiences can purchase access to the film on JioHotstar.
R&D must move beyond in-house investments to external partners : Kris Gopalakrishnan
The event recognisedoutstanding startups in domains like biotech, semiconductors, mobility and agriculture
Govt flags Programme Code violations by TV channels, urges caution on AI use
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory to private television channels regarding compliance with the Programme Code. Channels are urged to exercise caution in their use of artificial intelligence for news content production. Strict adherence to statutory provisions is emphasized following observed violations by various channels in past broadcasts. Additionally, the ministry reiterated prohibitions on inappropriate content and live coverage of anti-terrorist operations.
Typhoon Champi: 5 facts about the powerful storm
RBL Bank evaluates broking, MF foray as part of expanding capital market activities
Making it clear that no decision has been reached on the subject, its managing director and chief executive R Subramaniakumar said the bank, a subsidiary of UAE's Emirates NBD, will see which activities can be done internally, which can be handled at the group level and the separate units which it needs to form.
Daniela Amodei, the co-founder and president of Anthropic, studied English literature at the University of California, Santa Cruz before building a career in recruiting, risk management and AI safety. After working at Stripe and OpenAI, she co-founded Anthropic in 2021 with her brother, Dario Amodei, and other former OpenAI employees.
Andrew Ng On AI At Scale: Building The Intelligence Economy | NDTV World Summit 2026
From co-founding Coursera to helping build Google Brain and launching AI ventures, Andrew Ng has been at the forefront of artificial intelligence. At the NDTV World Summit 2026 in New Delhi, the AI pioneer explores how to take AI beyond the lab and turn its potential into real-world productivity, business innovation and economic growth. As AI transforms industries, how can its benefits reach more people? Catch Andrew Ng on scaling AI and building the intelligence economy.
Railways maintains punctuality amid heavy demand
New Delhi: Despite heavy demand, Indian Railways continues to take its passengers safely, comfortably and with consistent and increased punctuality. This is being done through improved monitoring, timetable rationalisation, better maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.The railways said that it has improved from 69.2% in 2018-19 to 77.43 in 2025-26 & 77.11% in 2026-27 (till now) if punctuality data are taken into consideration. It said that consistent performance on more than 77 per cent punctuality in the last three years, including the current year, is an improved performance from the year 2023-24, when it was 73.62 per cent.According to Indian Railways, the punctuality figures currently circulating on social media are being used out of context and are therefore misleading. It said that one can not compare two years when trains in India were not running in full capacity; hence, the higher punctuality of Indian trains during the COVID period is definitely not an apt reference for comparison. Once normal operations resumed, punctuality returned closer to the long-term average and has been steadily improving again, the release said.Railways again reiterated that the unusually high figures of 2020-21 and 2021-22 were recorded when very few trains were running due to the pandemic.Meanwhile, Indian Railways achieved a significant milestone in expanding rail connectivity and enhancing passenger amenities in Chhattisgarh. In the esteemed presence of the Chief Minister, Vishnu Deo Sai, and the Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Tadoki-Raoghat and Abhanpur-Kurud broad-gauge rail lines were inaugurated.On this occasion, new passenger train services-Raoghat-Raipur and Raipur-Kurud-were flagged off. Additionally, the foundation stone was laid for an Electric Locomotive Maintenance Facility in Raipur. The Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, participated in the event via video conferencing.The arrival of a train in Raoghat for the first time since independence marks a historic achievement in connecting the remote regions of southern Chhattisgarh to the national rail network. These projects and new passenger services will strengthen regional connectivity and provide citizens with improved travel facilities. (ANI)
IHCL reports revenue from operations of Rs 2484 cr for Q2, PAT at Rs 380 cr
Indian Hotels Company Limited has announced a revenue of Rs 2484 crore for the second quarter. The company expects to surpass its goal of a 700-hotel portfolio under the Accelerate 2030 initiative. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization stood at Rs 788 crore, showcasing a strong performance. IHCL plans to open 30 new hotels in the fiscal year's second half, adding to its existing portfolio.
Trump says India deal 'pretty close and 'much different'
For India, feasibility would hinge on enough provisions to ensure durable tariff advantage over rivals, sources said.
Rupee gains for eighth straight session, longest winning streak in 8 years
The rupee strengthened to 94.47 per dollar, its strongest level in six weeks, supported by foreign inflows linked to Jio Platforms' IPO and recent RBI measures to curb dollar demand
In the gripping season finale of Slow Horses, the Slough House crew confronts perilous situations that lead to devastating consequences. River Cartwright suffers an alarming collapse due to apparent poisoning, casting doubt on his survival as the episode draws to a close. Jackson Lamb crafts a clever scheme to redirect blame from a risky operation, determined to shield his colleagues.
Z sharpens its content strategy with a strong slate of non-fiction offerings across languages
Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. is set to enhance its non-fiction programming strategy significantly. The company aims to broaden its innovative formats while introducing flagship franchises in various languages. Upcoming offerings include cookery shows and celebrity talk shows hosted by popular figures. Additionally, the company will continue its successful formats that resonate with audiences across multiple markets. This move is designed to engage viewers actively and create memorable entertainment experiences.
Renewable Energy Expo, Battery Show to bring over 1,080 exhibitors to Greater Noida from Oct 22
The Renewable Energy India Expo, along with The Battery Show India, will take place from October 22-24. This event will host over 1,080 exhibitors and 54,000 industry professionals at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida. Participants will include key domestic and international companies in renewable energy and battery technologies.
Core sector grew at 7.9% in September; industrial outlook remains uncertain
Iron ore, electricity and cement drive September growth, while experts differ on the IIP outlook
RBI rejects all bids at Treasury bill auction as short-term yields surge
The RBI rejected all bids at the Rs 23,000 crore Treasury bill auction as short-term yields climbed, while the benchmark 10-year government bond yield rose to 7.44%.
Commerce Department steps up FTA outreach amid low utilisation
The State-level workshops are expected to help businesses identify opportunities and understand how to use the FTA provisions
Unauthorised HTBt cotton cultivation makes u up about 30% of the area, says study
Shortage of labour, high weed management costs forcing farmers to go for unapproved HtBt seeds
Railway employees demand online filing of travel, overtime claims as divisions flag high amounts
Some divisions and zones, including North Central Railway (NCR) and Bhavnagar Division of Western Railway, have already introduced online systems that allow employees to file TA and OT claims digitally and track their status, facilitating verification and faster settlement.
Investing Rs 13,428 in the Jio Platforms IPO for one month could result in a profit or a loss, depending on the share price after listing. Assuming an allotment of 12 shares at Rs 1,119 each, a 5% increase would generate a potential gain of Rs 671.40, while a 10% increase could yield Rs 1,342.80.
Though obtaining an MBA from an Indian Institute of Management is a goal for many, Megha Sarayan opted for an alternate route. The University of Calcutta economics alumnus turned down an offer from IIM Kozhikode after successfully passing the entrance exam and intensive interviews. Instead, she concentrated on expanding her baking business, which now allegedly earns more than Rs 2 crore each year.
During a prestigious state banquet at Windsor Castle, Kate Middleton made a striking appearance in a vibrant yellow gown by Elie Saab. Adding a touch of history, she accessorized with the Lover's Knot Tiara, previously worn by Princess Diana. This banquet welcomed Sultan Haitham of Oman, marking his first state visit in 44 years, and emphasized the enduring diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
India spirits boom has Scotch makers raising a glass
Jio IPO subscribed 3.01 times, draws Rs 66,500 cr bids
Jio Platforms Ltd's Rs 30,213-crore initial public offering was subscribed 3.01 times, attracting approximately Rs 66,500 crore in public bids, with qualified institutional buyers oversubscribing their portion by 9.02 times, while retail investor demand remained under-subscribed at 0.68 times.
Core sector growth at 30-month high of 7.9% in Sep as coal output rebounds
A sharp rebound in coal, higher iron ore output and strong refinery growth lifted core sector expansion to 7.9% in September, even as three of the nine industries contracted.
Social Security fixes 50M records: What it means
IICA signs MoU with Association of ARCsto deepen industry linkages of the PG Insolvency Programme
Partnership aims to bridge theory and practice for PGIP through industry expertise, research and internships
Navratri puts the brakes on auto sales, not EVs
India, New Zealand sign pact for electronic exchange of trade origin data
The agreement will enable advance electronic exchange of origin data, improve customs cooperation and help businesses access tariff concessions under the India-New Zealand FTA
Extent of rate hike cycle to depend on growth-inflation outlook: RBI Governor
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the duration and extent of the rate hike cycle will be contingent on the actual growth-inflation developments and outlook. The governor and other five Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) members voted to raise the repo rate by 25 bps to 5.5 per cent. The rate was hiked after a gap of nearly four years. He noted that there are increasing signs of generalisation of inflation.
FIA seeks extension of 7% VAT on aviation fuel in Delhi
Airlines cite rising fuel costs; ATF uplift up 40% since tax reduction
Apple iPhone Duo review: Five days with Apple's first foldable is it worth Rs 3 lakh?
Apple iPhone Duo review after five days of use examines whether Apple's first foldable smartphone justifies its starting price of Rs 2,99,900. The device impresses with its premium build, vibrant displays, smooth performance and excellent battery life, which can last up to two days with light usage. However, third-party app optimisation needs improvement, multitasking remains limited, and the absence of a dedicated telephoto camera is a drawback. While the iPhone Duo offers an enjoyable foldable experience, it is best suited to buyers who can comfortably afford its price and genuinely need a larger display.
India wants manufacturing at 25% of GDP will AI in factories help?
The Indian economy is projected to maintain a growth rate of 7.1% for the year 2026-27. This projection is an increase from the previously estimated 6.7%. RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra noted that inflationary pressures are rising, which could impact the growth outlook. Despite turbulent global conditions, India's economic resilience has been remarkable according to the governor.
Elon Musk believes advances in artificial intelligence, robotics and space travel could eventually make conventional money less important by transforming the global economy. Speaking to Walter Isaacson on The Builders podcast, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO said people would find ways to be happy even if they no longer needed to work, comparing the possibility to retirement. Musk also predicted that digital superintelligence could significantly increase global economic output.
Rubio tours Jamnagar as US courts Reliance
Jamnagar, Gujarat: Almost the entire Ambani family led by billionaire tycoon Mukesh Ambani welcomed the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at Jamnagar on Wednesday, as he began a tour of the world's largest single-site refinery.Rubio arrived in Jamnagar a day after calling India a crude-refining superpower and urging more processing of Venezuelan crude there.The day also included a visit to Reliance's Vantara animal-rescue centre and giga factories being developed by the conglomerate.— USAmbIndia (@USAmbIndia) The visit puts a private industrial empire at the centre of US-India energy diplomacy, analysts said.Officials have described the Ambani-hosted programme as a private visit. It comes as US diesel prices surge ahead of the mid-term elections.No details of the visit were released by either side.Rubio was welcomed by Ambani, chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries Ltd, his wife Nita and children Isha and Anant, people familar with the visit said.Akash Ambani, Mukesh Ambani's eldest son and managing director of Jio Platforms, was overseeing the opening of the telecom giant's initial public offering (IPO).Reliance's Jamnagar complex can process 1.4 million barrels of crude a day and is the world's largest and most complex single-site refinery. Its fuel exports make it a hub for global supply.Rubio told Reliance-owned Network 18 that Washington wants to work more closely with Reliance on refining energy from the Western Hemisphere, calling that helpful to both countries.Reliance is already a key player in Washington's oil diplomacy. It is the biggest buyer of Venezuelan crude after the US itself, at a time when Washington is urging India to buy more, the people said.Reliance's proposed Texas refinery adds a reciprocal dimension to its energy ties with the US.US President Donald Trump recently announced that Reliance is partnering to build a new 168,000 barrels-a-day refinery project in Brownsville, Texas.While Washington is seeking to encourage more processing of Western Hemisphere crude at Jamnagar, the Indian conglomerate is also positioning itself to handle US oil closer to its source.The plant is designed to process US-produced light shale crude and would be the first major new US refinery in about five decades if completed.Besides the refinery, Rubio also visited Vantara.Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation-run Vantara is a rescue, rehabilitation and conservation programme spread over 3,000 acres in Jamnagar. It sits within the green belt of the refinery complex and was conceived by Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani.The centre houses more than 2,000 animals across 43 species and employs about 2,100 care-givers and conservationists. It says it has rescued more than 200 elephants and thousands of other animals, reptiles and birds.The other stop on Rubio's visit was the Dhirubhai Ambani Green Energy Giga Complex - Reliance's integrated clean-energy manufacturing hub at Jamnagar, covering solar, storage, fuel cells, electrolysers and power electronics. It is being built on a 5,000-acre site at an expected cost of Rs 75,000 crore (about USD 10 billion).The US Secretary of State arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday, where External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hosted him for wide-ranging talks on bilateral cooperation.Ahead of the meeting, Rubio described India as a crude oil refining superpower and advocated for processing more Venezuelan crude in India.He also urged India to scale up energy trade with the US and increase purchases of American technologies and defence systems.For Washington, Jamnagar offers a way to turn Western Hemisphere crude into diesel at scale, a pressing concern before the midterms, analysts said.For Reliance, the visit is validation, and a chance to show the US it is an investor as well as a buyer, they said.For New Delhi, it comes as both governments try to settle their differences. Rubio said only a small number of items remain unresolved on a trade deal.
New policy in works to boost agrivoltaics in India; enhance farmers' income via energy generation
India's government is formulating a policy to enhance the adoption of agrivoltaics across the country. This initiative aims to increase farmers' income by combining agricultural production with solar energy generation. States with significant agrivoltaic potential include Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, accounting for nearly half of India's cropland suitable for this practice.
Buyofuel, Honda Trading ink pact to build biofuel supply chain
The long-term commercial agreement is to jointly build reliable supply chains for biofuels and biofuel feedstock across India and beyond
Anthropic plans to commit 5% of its shares to a new public benefit fund that could be worth billions of dollars as the AI company grows. The fund may support nonprofits, people affected by AI-driven job disruption and other public interest initiatives. The companys board could approve additional share allocations as its valuation rises.
Higher MSP for rabi crops an opportunity to boost mustard production: SEA
Improved price assurance for mustard can encourage farmers to maintain or expand cultivation and invest in better farm practices, says Association President Angshu Mallick
Prince Harry revealed his reasons for returning to the UK, emphasising children's education and family connections. He expressed importance in raising his children in Britain while also mending strained relationships with his family. The return marks a significant change from earlier tensions within the royal family since stepping back from royal duties. While his relationship with King Charles III seems to improve, issues with Prince William remain unresolved.
Motor third-party insurance premiums exhibited a sluggish growth rate of 9 percent year-on-year in September 2026. Insurers have reportedly reduced focus on this segment due to a Supreme Court ruling on compensation for homemakers. The overall motor insurance premiums saw a rise of 13 percent during the same month. SBI General Insurance demonstrated stronger performance compared to other private insurers in the third-party segment.
