30 C 
Supreme Court upholds Himachal HC ruling on drug regulator powers, impacting CDSCO enforcement
The Supreme Court dismissed the Union government's challenge to a High Court judgment. This ruling clarified jurisdiction over drug regulation powers between central and state authorities. The High Court found state authorities hold powers under Chapter IV of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. The Supreme Court found no sufficient grounds to interfere with the High Court's order. This decision impacts central enforcement actions involving drug manufacturers.
Centre seeks NPPA report on high markups in hospital consumables
The Centre has requested a report from the NPPA regarding price discrepancies. Maharashtra FDA flagged significant gaps between trade prices and MRPs for hospital items. A survey revealed markups of over 2,800 percent on certain medical consumables. This situation may revive discussions on trade margin rationalisation for medical devices. The medical device industry supports calls for fair pricing and ethical practices.
MDR effect: Retailers, apparel makers warn of price hikes
Various retailers across categories may increase prices or lower festive discounts, since they are, as it is, dealing in an inflationary environment and higher costs of logistics this festive season because of disruptions linked to the West Asia war earlier in the year, said Kumar Rajagopalan, chief executive, Retailers Association of India (RAI).
UPI MDR could create Rs 27,000 crore revenue pool by FY28: Bernstein
A 40-basis-point MDR on UPI transactions could create a large revenue pool. Issuing banks and UPI apps will receive substantial portions of this estimated revenue. Merchant-side payment apps and acquiring banks will also capture significant revenue shares. This levy aims to sustain UPI infrastructure and support its continued expansion. The charges remain well below card fees and exempt many smaller transactions.
Counterpoint Research data showed an almost identical drop in online contribution to smartphone sales. Researchers and industry executives attributed the reversal to weaker demand for entry-level products, fewer online discounts and wider availability of EMI financing at physical stores.
RBI clarifies principal business rules for NBFCs, CIC definition after Tata Sons CoR rejection
The Reserve Bank of India has clarified definitions for financial activity and core investment companies. This clarification follows the rejection of Tata Sons' application to surrender its registration. Companies must meet specific asset and income thresholds to be regulated by the central bank. Tata Sons, an unlisted holding company, now faces enhanced regulatory scrutiny. The central bank's decision effectively pushes Tata Sons towards a mandatory public listing.
UPI MDR could cost 47.2 bps with GST for merchants
The new framework introduces a 0.4% MDR on person-to-merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, capped at ?300 on transactions of Rs 75,000 and above, while consumers will not be charged. It takes effect from October 15. GST is paid by the service provider who typically recover the amount from whoever receives service.
Indian exporters see strong festive season orders for textiles and food products to US and Europe
Indian exporters anticipate a stronger festive season with significant order increases. Textile orders from the US for holidays have jumped considerably this year. Food exports to Europe and the GCC region are also experiencing robust demand. However, exporters face challenges from high freight costs and container shortages. Trade policies and import compliance requirements also present ongoing concerns for businesses.
Mining amendment is unfair to States
A State that bears the infrastructural and social consequences of mineral extraction must retain a meaningful stake in the economic value generated from its natural resources
Gail India Gets PNGRB approval to transfer city gas assets to subsidiary
The PNGRB has approved Gail India's transfer of six city gas distribution areas. This move paves the way for Gail Gas to proceed with its initial public offering. Gail Gas plans to raise 3,000 crore through this upcoming public offering. The subsidiary aims to list its shares by the end of the current financial year. Gail India will then dilute a minority stake in its wholly owned subsidiary.
Parts suppliers think global as auto majors focus on sourcing mix
The trend is accelerating across major tier-1 suppliers, including Suprajit Engineering, Highway Roop Precision Technologies, SPR Auto Technologies, and Tenneco, as OEMs prioritise supply chain flexibility over single-country dependence.
MDR on UPI transactions faces PIL in Supreme Court
A Public Interest Litigation challenges the government's new UPI charges. These charges apply to merchant payments exceeding two thousand rupees. The petition argues these new fees will ultimately affect ordinary citizens. Businesses might pass these additional costs directly to consumers. The Supreme Court will now review this significant financial move.
DGFT to set up central unit for trade applications
The government is establishing a Central Processing Department within the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. This new unit will centralize the processing of all trade-related applications. Faceless trade facilitation aims for paperless and jurisdiction-free processing of applications. This initiative will enhance transparency and reduce processing times for businesses. The department will be located in the central licensing area in Delhi.
Who knew that fish heads and bones (and guts) have more use than being mere cat food? A group of researchers in Canada has found a technique that can extract eco-friendly, biodegradable plastic. Conventional manufacturing depends on petroleum-derived crude oil and hazardous phosgene while also producing isocyanates that may cause irritation to the skin and respiratory tract.
What Indias growth really means
India should counter energy risks through diversified suppliers, long term contracts, strategic reserves, renewables, domestic exploration and efficiency
India clears 642 UK car imports under FTA in two months of implementation
India has approved import quotas for 642 passenger vehicles from Britain. These imports will benefit from concessional tariffs under a new trade pact. Seven companies secured allocations for the remainder of this year's quota. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade had invited applications for vehicle imports. This move facilitates trade under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement.
Centre eases export compliance for shipments up to Rs 3 lakh, seeks 5-year RoDTEP extension
Exporters will not need a registration certificate for shipments valued up to three lakh rupees. This change reduces compliance burdens for new and small businesses entering overseas markets. The government is also seeking a five-year extension for the RoDTEP export promotion scheme. Discussions are underway to ensure predictability and examine potential changes to the mission. A framework for Brand India and sectoral branding is currently being developed.
Pulses, oilseed prices rise as rain deficit hits crops
Key pulse and oilseed prices have risen sharply compared to last year. Scanty rains are affecting the current kharif crop and raising rabi season output concerns. Tur and chana prices have increased significantly, while soyabean and groundnut have seen larger jumps. Forecasts of El Nino are also impacting chana prices for the upcoming rabi season. Despite output worries, industry veterans state the supply situation remains stable.
NFRA to release second Staff Series on Technology in Audit
The series is in line with NFRA's obligations to suggest measures to improve overall audit quality and promote awareness of the significance of accounting and auditing standards, auditors' responsibilities, audit quality and other such matters.
Govt holds firm on UPI MDR as Opposition mounts pressure for rollback
Finance Ministry rejects claims of US pressure behind UPI MDR, as Opposition parties and trader groups demand reconsideration of the new merchant fee
Taxman's JAARing move opens fresh debate over Mauritius treaty
The recent invocation of JAAR, a GAAR-type tool in the armoury of the taxman, in a certain case has stunned many. Even though technically the tax department has the power to invoke JAAR, the recent move was entirely unforeseen following the CBDT assurance and subsequent change in the law to spare grandfathered shares from GAAR.
NITI seeks easier access to geological data, capital for small exploration companies
Niti Aayog recommends government support for junior exploration firms and increased private participation. Streamlining approvals and forest procedures will reduce project delays significantly. Harmonizing renewable energy rules and addressing GST for logistics are also advised. Promoting domestic production of specialized alloys and battery recycling is crucial. Strengthening trade competitiveness requires market diversification and integrated value chains.
PM Modi-Egyptian President Sisi BRICS meet focused on Mecca Pact and its impact
Egyptian President el-Sisi and Indian Prime Minister Modi discussed the Mecca Pact. They also explored widening their strategic partnership during the BRICS summit. Egypt, a new BRICS member, has avoided joining the Mecca Pact. This decision reflects its strategy of neutrality and growing ties with India. Egypt maintains stability in North and Northeast Africa while engaging with neighbors.
The Wood Horse Receive Day highlights the idea that progress does not always require more effort. Sometimes, the shift comes after you have done everything within your control and leave room for circumstances or other people to play their part. What has seemed stuck may not need to be pushed any harder; it may simply be waiting for the final piece to fall into place.
Before handing over your flat for redevelopment, check these 6 safeguards
It is important for residents to complete their due diligence and secure adequate safeguards before handing over possession of the existing building to the builder
Manoj Jarange Patil advances Mumbai march, dares government to stop him
Manoj Jarange Patil plans to arrive in Mumbai ahead of his protest for OBC reservation, challenging the government to intervene. He has issued a stern warning against any lathi charges directed at protestors, highlighting the potential for drastic reactions. Urging the Chief Minister to expedite the issuance of Kunbi caste certificates, Jarange Patil expressed his readiness to sacrifice everything for the cause of his community.
Scientists have discovered 84 unusual hypersoft X-ray sources across six galaxies using archival data from NASAs Chandra X-ray Observatory. The objects produce unusually low-energy X-rays and may emit intense ultraviolet radiation, unlike previously observed X-ray sources. Researchers believe they could be linked to X-ray binary systems and may help investigate the origins of Type Ia supernovae as well as the unexplained ionisation of gas between stars.
In Uttarakhand, a thoughtful man spotted a delivery worker braving the rain without proper footwear. From his balcony, he called out and decided to lend a helping hand by giving away his new Adidas shoes. The delivery partner was visibly touched, pausing to appreciate the gesture before continuing on his route. This simple act of compassion has sparked a wave of admiration and praise across social media.
India slashes windfall tax on petrol, diesel, ATF exports
The government has reduced windfall taxes on petroleum exports. Levies on petrol, diesel, and aviation turbine fuel have been lowered. This change follows the government's regular fortnightly review of export duties. The duty on petrol exports is now Rs. 0.5 per litre. Diesel and ATF exports will see duties of Rs. 20 and Rs. 15 per litre respectively.
A Finnish couple spent five years searching Google Maps for their dream private island before finding a five-acre property in Finlands archipelago. Aleksi Hautamki and Milla Selkimki bought the island, sold their Helsinki apartment and built a solar-powered, off-grid retreat called Project . The secluded island home, complete with a sauna, private beach and hot tub, was later offered to guests for up to $2,400 a night.
Quote of the day by Jack Nicholson from The Departed explores responsibility, courage, personal agency and success. The line is spoken by Frank Costello, Nicholsons character in Martin Scorseses 2006 film. Its meaning is linked to refusing passivity, taking responsibility and shaping ones surroundings, while also showing why ambition without limits can lead to harmful choices.
'You took advantage of murder victims mother: Goldman vs NY Sheriff heated exchange shocks house
DC Edit | Will India Go Back to Being a Cashless Economy?
Limited MDR on select merchant payments preserves free transfers but puts safeguards to the test
She gave up her job in 2015, closed her bank account, and has since been living for more than a decade without cash. In several interviews, Jo Nemeth, an Aussie woman in her 50s, revealed how she managed to live a meaningful life without harming the environment and having no savings.
Credit card EMI vs personal loan: Which costs less for big-ticket purchases?
A lower EMI does not necessarily mean a cheaper loan. Before choosing between a credit card EMI and a personal loan, calculate the total amount payable under both options.
A decades-old forest experiment in Victoria, Australia, was largely forgotten after funding cuts ended its main monitoring. When researchers returned about 30 years later, they found that different forestry methods had produced strikingly different results, including exceptionally large trees in heavily thinned areas and unexpected findings about carbon storage and wildlife habitat.
NMDC recovers 27.29 carat gem diamond from Panna
Based on its colour, carat weight,and clarity (CCC), and add one S-Shape ,the newly recovered 27.29-carat diamond is initially estimated to be valued at around Rs 1 crore. The final value will be determined through the prescribed evaluation and auction process, the company said.
Fujifilm to invest Rs 800 cr in semiconductor materials manufacturing facility in India
Japanese firm Fujifilm will invest USD 83 million in a new manufacturing facility. This facility will produce essential semiconductor materials in two phases. Commercial production is anticipated to commence in fiscal year 2028. The company plans to support front-end process chemicals initially. Fujifilm seeks to align with India Semiconductor Mission's vision and policies.
EPFO wage ceiling raised to 25,000 for better social security net
Government raises EPF wage ceiling to 25,000 from 15,000, expanding mandatory social-security coverage to over 51 lakh additional employees
RAI warns UPI merchant fee could push small retailers back towards cash
Industry body says the charge could drive small merchants back to cash, weaken formalisation and undermine digital payment adoption during the festive season across India.
US names India, China, Pakistan among drug transit, illicit drug-producing nations for FY27
The United States has designated India, China, and Pakistan as major drug producing or transit countries. This presidential determination covers twenty-three nations for fiscal year twenty twenty-seven. Afghanistan, Bolivia, Burma, and Colombia were separately identified for failing counternarcotics obligations. Inclusion on the list considers geographic and economic factors for drug production and transport. This designation does not necessarily reflect current government efforts or US cooperation.
Should you choose zero copay for your health insurance? Why? Why not? Explained
A zero-copay health insurance policy reduces hospitalisation costs but often comes with higher premiums. It's crucial to compare coverage, premiums and potential expenses before selecting one.
MDR may push small merchants, price-sensitive consumers towards cash: GTRI
The Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 could push small merchants and price-sensitive consumers back towards cash, economic think tank GTRI said on Wednesday. Effective October 15, UPI payments to merchants (P2M) above Rs 2,000 will attract a 0.4 per cent MDR with an overall cap of Rs 300. Besides, a flat concessional MDR of Rs 5 would be applicable on specific merchant categories such as railways, telecom services, insurance, and fuel for transaction above Rs 2,000. MDR could push small merchants and price-sensitive consumers back towards cash, GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava said in a social media post. He said that UPI fees are not about revenue as keeping UPI free costs the government Rs 2,000-2,500 crore annually. This is tiny compared with subsidies of Rs 2.03 lakh crore for food, Rs 1.68 lakh crore for fertilisers, Rs 22,800 crore for agricultural credit and Rs 12,500 crore for petroleum and LPG, he said adding the NPCI (National Payment
Top 11 districts in UP report 1.6% drop in sugarcane acreage; sugar output may be hit
A likely early start of factories with lower recovery and the demand from local gur manufacturers may also limit cane supply, potentially affecting overall sugar production
Indias soybean imports may touch record high 1 mt in the current season on fall in domestic supply
Trend in imports likely to sustain next year on anticipated drop in output impacted by lower area, weak monsoons
Government reviews use of ship-recycled steel to boost manufacturing
Ministers reviewed using ship recycling steel to boost domestic production. Key stakeholders examined regulations for secondary steel usage. Discussions focused on expanding recycled steel applications to new sectors. This aims to enhance value generation from ship recycling operations. The government promotes circular economy and sustainable global benchmarks.
Centre weighs stronger safeguards for hub-and-spoke flight operations
Boarding pass improvements are among the measures being considered following the immigration lapse at Delhi airport
The Argentina federal judge in a landmark decision ruled that Giacomo Cerutis Portrait of a Lady will be restored to its true owners. The painting was stolen from a Jewish-owned art gallery in Amsterdam in 1945 and was missing since 80 years. The observers at the Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagbladdiscovered the painting in a real estate listing in the seaside resort town of Mar del Plata.
Prabowo expects village cooperatives to boost economy by 2027
Copper dazzle dull margins for EV, consumer and engineering goods
Copper futures touched a lifetime-high of $14,779 per ton on September 8 and continues to hover above the $14,000 per ton-mark.
Lee Cronins The Mummy is set to stream in India after its theatrical release earlier this year. The supernatural horror film follows a journalist whose daughter returns mysteriously eight years after disappearing in Egypt. Heres when and where to watch the film online, along with its cast, story and OTT details.
On September 17, Prime Minister Modi's birthday, 3,000 will be credited to 1.58 crore eligible women under the Annapurna Yojana.
It has to be in accordance with the governments development priorities and the lending targets set should translate into measurable outcomes, he asserts
Commerce Department pitches for five-year extension of RoDTEP scheme for exporters
Govt also looking at making changes in rules, components of the Export Promotion Mission based on exporters feedback
Ethnic conflict caused over Rs 1,200 crore GST revenue loss, strained Manipur economy: CM
Digital Desk | Imphal, Sep 16 (IANS) Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday said the prolonged ethnic conflict in the state had led to a decline of over Rs 1,200 crore in Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue between 2023 and 2026, putting considerable pressure on the state's economy. Addressing the 52nd Foundation Day celebration of the All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) at the Manipur Press Club, Imphal, he also appealed to all civil society organisations (CSOs) of the state not to resort to bandhs (shutdowns) and blockades, noting that the collateral impact of such actions had affected the state significantly in terms of economic activity and development, and appealed for collective efforts to create an environment conducive to economic recovery and development. On the welfare of journalists, the Chief Minister informed that the journalist pension amount would be increased from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per month, while the family pension would be increased from Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000 per month. He further informed that during the conflict, many journalists could not make their contributions to the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) Journalist Pension Scheme. For those who could not pay their contributions, a one-time relaxation will be allowed to re-activate their pension accounts, he added. The Chief Minister stated that the above matters would be placed before the Cabinet meeting for consideration. Regarding pending advertisements, Khemchand Singh informed that pending advertisement bills amounting to around Rs 1 crore had been disbursed. He said that a follow-up meeting with all Heads of Departments has been scheduled for September 25 to further deliberate on the matter. The programme was attended by MLA Khongbantabam Ibomcha, Secretary (IPR) Neeta Arambam, Director Charanjeet Singh, President of Editors Guild Manipur Khogenra Khomdram, President of AMWJU Asem Bhakta Singh, officials, journalists and members of the AMWJU, among others. On the occasion, Khemchand Singh also paid floral tribute at the AMWJU memorial stone in remembrance of journalists who had passed away.
SC asks RBI to secure compliance of norms on seizure of financed vehicles by NBFCs, banks
The Supreme Court mandated the RBI to enforce lawful vehicle repossession rules. Financial institutions cannot seize vehicles without due legal process. The court ordered a finance firm to close loan accounts and refund money. Compensation was awarded for mental agony and livelihood loss. This ruling ensures borrowers are not dispossessed of vehicles arbitrarily.
Iran war has cost the US $38bn: How will it impact US economy, politics?
High energy costs at the pump and strategic setback for US in the Iran war will likely cost Trump in the midterms. Iran war has cost the US $38bn: How will it impact US economy, politics?
In an interview, iconic rockstar Jon Bon Jovi urged people to not hesitate when it comes to pursuing their dreams or cherished ambitions. Since we only live once and our lives are unpredictable and short, we should not hesitate to chase our dreams, even if it means abandoning stability or letting go of familiarity for a while. Chasing dreams means embracing risk, and we should not be scared of that.
The Union Cabinet raised the EPFO wage ceiling from 15,000 to 25,000, potentially increasing the life insurance cover under the EDLI scheme from 7 lakh to an estimated 10.5 lakh. This change could benefit between 50 lakh and 1 crore new EPFO members.
Risk Of India Returning To Cash Economy: Retailers' Body On UPI Fee
Small merchants will now think twice about whether to accept cash or UPI, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of the Retailers Association of India, said.
Adidas begins layoffs at India Tech Hub in Gurgaon, over 350 employees affected
Adidas has initiated layoffs at its India Tech Hub in Gurgaon. Approximately 350 employees, including engineers and data scientists, are affected. Affected staff received exit letters or are transitioning until December. The company cited business needs for organizational simplification and strengthening capabilities. India remains a strategically important market for Adidas' growth.
US tariff threat pushes India Inc to new markets as cost gap narrows to 8%: Mukundan
Companies are exploring wider market access, stronger partnerships and faster execution as India seeks to improve competitiveness amid changing trade conditions
Drawing comparisons with institutions such as the Institute for Fiscal Studies in the UK and the International Bureau of Fiscal Documentation in Amsterdam, Sitharaman said India needed more visible and rigorous independent tax policy research
DGFT clears 642 UK cars for import under India-UK FTA quota
Only OEMs, dealers and channel partners were eligible to apply for the TRQ
NITI Aayog VC defends UPI merchant fee, says businesses must be self-sustainable
NITI Aayog defends the government's UPI transaction fee decision. Businesses must become sustainable without relying on government subsidies. A small fee will apply to merchant transactions exceeding two thousand rupees. Person-to-person and small payments remain exempt from this new charge. This move aims to strengthen the UPI ecosystem's safety and security.
India considers cutting vegetable oil import taxes as prices climb
India is considering lowering import taxes on vegetable oils. This move aims to curb rising food inflation ahead of festival season. Lower prices could boost domestic consumption and support global markets. The government seeks to shield consumers while protecting local farmers' interests. India's retail inflation accelerated in August, driven by food prices.
Moving funds from NRO to NRE? Crucial tax rules and transfer limits you need to know
Transferring capital from an NRO account to an NRE account is fully permitted, but it remains strictly regulated by tax and foreign exchange rules.
India weighs vegetable oil import duty cut as prices rise
The move could help contain prices as households increase consumption of palm oil, soyoil and sunflower oil during the festival season
China revokes 3 more Indian rice exporters licences for alleged GMO presence in shipments
Indian exporters say the rejected consignments were found not to have any genetic material when re-exported to other nations
Manipur faces 90 MW power shortage, MSPDCL says rotational power cuts continue
The shortage is linked to the prevailing power crisis being experienced across India, MSPDCL said. Despite the availability of funds, the state is facing difficulties in ensuring adequate power supply, it added.
Creating an effective emergency fund involves assessing essential expenses and estimating recovery time based on personal situations.
Inheritance of online businesses in India: What happens to a creators digital assets after death?
Succession planning for account access, earnings, intellectual property and commercial agreements is essential.
India targets 25-30% food processing level to boost value addition, exports
India aims to raise the share of agricultural produce undergoing food processing to 25-30 per cent from the current 16-17 per cent, as the government seeks to expand value-added production, reduce post-harvest losses and improve the sector's export potential, a senior Ministry of Food Processing Industries official said in a press release issued by Anuga Select India.
Karnataka to build end-to-end electronics hub: Minister MB Patil
The state already has more than 20,000 chip designers and over 10,000 analogue engineers, while more than 100 companies are engaged in chip design, Patil said.
The 8th Central Pay Commission will visit Bengaluru on October 7-8, meeting with employee unions and pensioner associations to discuss various demands. Chaired by Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, it aims to release final recommendations by May 2027.
Livestock product exports up 44% in April-August
Much of the growth in livestock product exports was driven by strong demand for Indian buffalo meat from Vietnam, Malaysia and other markets
Reforms improved Indias competitiveness, strengthened resilience: CIIs R Mukundan
Reforms in taxation and digital infrastructure have boosted India's economic competitiveness. GST and the JAM trinity integrated millions into the formal financial system. Government infrastructure investment has significantly lowered logistics costs across the nation. Manufacturing sectors like electronics and pharmaceuticals show substantial growth and increased exports. Future growth depends on private investment and deepening domestic value chains.
'No question of rethinking 0.4% UPI MDR above 2,000': Govt official
The government has said the MDR will apply within the merchant payment ecosystem and will not be charged to consumers
NSE IPO goes live: Key things investors need to know
Karnataka HC quashes Rs 482-crore penalty on ACC, directs govt to execute mining lease
The standoff escalated in 2025 when the department issued a revised royalty demand of Rs 367.51 crore (after adjusting Rs 125 crore already deposited by the firm), followed by a separate penalty notice of Rs 482.70 crore under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.
In an unprecedented experiment in 1998, swordtail fish were launched into orbit on the space shuttle Endeavor to explore how life persists without gravity. They initially thrived, swimming well in their custom habitat. However, by the ninth day, they began to exhibit looping movements, a reaction caused by the absence of gravity. Once back on Earth, the fish experienced a brief phase of clumsiness but quickly regained their swimming abilities.
Yellowstone National Park is grappling with an escalating issue of litter left by visitors. This debris often contaminates the park's delicate hydrothermal areas, leading to ecological damage. In recent efforts, staff have collected over 20,100 pieces of trash and 5,600 rocks, discovering items like hats, coins, AirPods, and children's toys among the debris.
Take steps to accelerate discovery of new mineral resources, says NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog suggests improving access to geological data and capital for exploration companies. Streamlining approvals and procedures will help reduce project delays significantly. Promoting domestic production of specialized alloys and integrating suppliers is also recommended. Establishing traceable collection systems for batteries and e-waste is crucial. The report highlights India's mineral trade share and key export markets.
Chennai Port sets record for highest single-day pig iron exports
The latest shipment surpassed the ports previous single-day record of 13,208 tonnes handled on July 30, 2026
Quote of the day by Nick Jonas is about much more than unreleased music. It is about the quiet education that comes from discovering how unpredictable success can be. Life frequently gives people moments that feel like breakthroughs, only for circumstances to change before those possibilities become reality. The answer is not to stop hoping, dreaming or creating.
Today's quote of the day by Stephen King reflects on a difficult truth: our ambitions should have a place in life, not take the place of life itself. His words speak to the quiet tension between work and relationships, achievement and contentment, dreams and the time we give to simply live. The quote invites us to examine what we sacrifice for success, where our sense of self comes from, and whether the life we are building still feels like our own.
Off the coast of Scotland, the innovative Orbital O2 platform is revolutionizing energy generation with its ability to produce clean electricity. With two robust turbines designed to capture ocean currents, this floating tidal system offers a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution. Unlike wind or solar power, tidal energy proves to be a more consistent and dependable energy source.
Amazon Alexa+ launches in India at 2,000/month: Leadership on AI, privacy and whats next
Amazon has launched Alexa+ in India, adding generative AI, personalised conversations and task-performing capabilities to Alexa. Available under Early Access from September 16, it supports Hindi and Hinglish and can work across smart-home devices, Amazon services and partner platforms. Alexa+ will be free for Prime members after Early Access, while other users can access it through paid plans.
India's finance ministry rejected claims of foreign pressure influencing UPI transaction charges. A 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate will apply to UPI payments over Rs 2,000. This charge will not affect consumers and most small merchants remain exempt. The revenue will support payment ecosystem participants and infrastructure development. UPI policy decisions are made independently for an affordable digital payments ecosystem.
No foreign influence behind MDR on UPI payments above 2,000: FinMin
The finance ministry on Wednesday clarified that there was no foreign influence behind the decision to impose 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000. The clarification follows accusations by some Opposition parties, including the Congress, that the government succumbed to US pressure in taking the decision to impose the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR). Some claims suggest the change is due to foreign influence. This is false. India's UPI policy decisions are made independently, with the clear goal of building a self-sustaining, inclusive, and affordable digital payments ecosystem, the finance ministry said in a post on X. Since its launch in 2016, UPI has grown into the world's largest real-time interoperable payment system - entirely on India's own terms, it said. UPI processed 24.5 billion transactions in August 2026 alone. To keep this system self-sustainable, secure and innovative, a small fee on high-value merchant transactions helps fund better
