20 C 
A Hyderabad consumer commission has ordered Square Yards interior business to pay 4.25 lakh to a Secunderabad woman after her flats interiors didnt match approved 3D designs. She moved the commission, which held that firms failed to explain production drawings, amounting to deficient service.
Diesel shortage lifts Indias exports to 12-month high in October
Diesel shipments from India hit 700,000 barrels per day (b/d) last month, compared to 620,000 b/d during September, according to Kpler data
The Centre's 3% DR hike, effective 1 July 2026, will raise Dearness Relief for eligible OPS and UPS family pensioners from 60% to 63%. Here's how the revision will affect monthly family pension payments, the applicable eligibility conditions and examples of the additional amount.
A Kerala consumer commission ordered IRCTC to refund a passenger Re 1 withheld from a cancelled ticket, with 9% interest, 100 compensation and 3,000 in legal costs. It ruled the shortfall amounted to deficient service and an unfair trade practice.
Insurance reforms: protect policyholders and keep the door open to investors
Indias insurance reforms must curb mis-selling and opaque incentives without creating an uneven playing field or unsettling foreign investors with frequent policy changes.
Au Small Finance Bank says investigating potential data leak involving SaaS platform
AU Small Finance Bank is investigating a potential data leak involving a SaaS platform managed by Salesforce.
Sir Patrick Stewart, a celebrated actor known for iconic roles in films like Star Trek and X-Men, passed away on October 28 at his Los Angeles residence after a long struggle with Alzheimer's and dementia. In 2023, he released his New York Times bestselling autobiography, Making It So: A Memoir.
Centre notifies National Social Security Board for gig, platform workers
The government has notified the National Social Security Board for unorganised workers and gig and platform workers, which will design, monitor, and recommend targeted welfare schemes to bridge the social security gap. Gig workers are those who perform work or participate in a work arrangement and earn from such activities outside the traditional employer-employee relationship. Platform workers are those who engage in work through or with online platforms. In a move towards ensuring comprehensive social security for India's massive informal workforce, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has notified the constitution of the National Social Security Board for Unorganised Workers and Gig & Platform Workers, a ministry statement said. Established under the statutory framework of the Code on Social Security, this marks a historic shift by integrating digital gig and platform professionals into India's formal welfare architecture, the ministry said. The Board will be presided over ..
Less-educated women drove India's female workforce growth: Icrier
A new Icrier report found that women with lower levels of education drove female workforce growth, while household responsibilities and wage gaps continued to shape women's employment across sectors
New AI Liability Guide For India's Enterprises
The Data Security Council of India (DSCI) has released an India-focused AI liability guide to clarify accountability and responsibility for agentic AI systems. The guide aims to help enterprises understand how existing legal doctrines apply to autonomous, multi-vendor AI, addressing who bears consequences when AI agents act independently and issues arise. It is a live discussion paper intended to foster responsible AI adoption and is open for industry feedback.
Smartworks raises FY27 revenue growth guidance to 35% after Q2 revenue jumps
Smartworks reported a revenue increase of 39% year-on-year during the July-September quarter. The company has raised its revenue growth guidance for FY27 to 3335%. It continues to expand its contracted rental revenue to Rs 5,800 crore across 71 centers. Demand from enterprise clients remains strong, contributing 91% of the rental revenue. The company is focused on adding more campuses in prime locations to support client growth.
Following Patrick Stewarts death, revisit five films that showcase his versatility beyond X-Men and Star Trek. From the science-fiction epic Dune and thriller Green Room to The Sheep Detectives, his final film released during his lifetime, these titles highlight his range. The compilation also includes streaming platforms where viewers in India and the US can watch them.
November brings several important income tax deadlines, including TDS payments, issuance of TDS and TCS certificates, and the extended ITR filing deadline for audit cases. Here's a date-wise guide to key forms, compliance requirements and deadlines taxpayers should know.
India on track to achieve $1 trillion exports this year if current pace continues: CEA Nageswaran
India is on track to achieve or even exceed $1 trillion in exports this financial year, provided the current pace of trade continues
Gig workers get a seat at the table as Centre notifies social security boards
The Ministry of Labour and Employment has notified the National Social Security Board for unorganised workers and gig workers. This board will enable the implementation of welfare schemes designed to address social security gaps. It will include representatives from government, companies, and civil society to ensure diverse input. The board is expected to meet regularly to discuss policies affecting these workers.
Cat & mouse game: Piyush Goyal shares how PM Modi rejected the RCEP deal
Mumbai, India's financial hub is losing its coastal edge as pollution surges
Mumbai has faced unusually poor air quality throughout October as the average air quality index has sharply increased. According to data, this month has seen significant concentrations of PM2.5 particles that pose health risks. The ongoing El Nio effect is causing slower coastal winds that usually help disperse pollution. Factors such as construction activity and urban development further contribute to the deteriorating air quality.
'A fools world': For overthinkers, Hrithik Roshan shares a new perspective on life and spirituality
Hrithik Roshan recently praised for his cameo in Jailer 2 took to social media to share philosophical insights. He reflected on the irony of searching for wisdom and suggested ignorance may sometimes be blissful. Read on to know more about it.
ISRO is scheduled to launch its GSLV-F18 rocket carrying the NVS-03 navigation satellite at 11:51 pm on October 30 from Sriharikota. The mission aims to strengthen India's NavIC network with an additional L1 navigation signal and improved timing capabilities through an indigenous atomic clock.
Israel's election results give neither Netanyahu nor the opposition a majority. What lies ahead?
Israels election results have left Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus bloc with 53 seats and the main opposition with 48 in the 120-member Knesset, triggering weeks of coalition negotiations. Arab-led parties won the remaining 19 seats and could become kingmakers, though their potential role has sparked controversy. If parties fail to form a government, Israel could hold another election early next year.
Wealth is not just a number on your bank statement; its freedom and peace of mind: Deepak Ajwani
IRCTC hotels case: Delhi court defers formal framing of charges against Lalu, others
A Delhi court has adjourned the framing of money laundering charges against Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family members. The judge stated that all accused, except those exempted, must be present at the next hearing. The Enforcement Directorate's case involves the alleged IRCTC hotel scam, with nine of the sixteen accused facing charges. The investigation indicates no political vendetta against Lalu Prasad, despite defense claims.
SGB turns Rs 1 lakh investment into Rs 3.76 lakh
Upstox secures bond platform licence
IMD update: Heavy rain regime may return to coastal AP, TN, Kerala early next week
The India Meteorological Department has left the door open for intensification of the brewing depression into a deep depression that ranks only second to a cyclone in intensity
The Kalyan GRP unit has arrested a 36-year-old woman accused of stealing gold jewellery from female passengers travelling on Mumbai local trains. Police recovered gold ornaments worth Rs 14.38 lakh and linked the accused to two theft cases registered at Karjat and Kalyan railway police stations.
Escorts Kubota hikes tractor prices as Middle East war fuels cost pressures
Escorts Kubota plans to implement price hikes on its tractor offerings in November 2026. The company cites inflation and geopolitical uncertainties as significant factors influencing this decision. Price adjustments will vary by model, variant, and geographical regions. These changes come after attempts to optimize costs and maintain operational efficiency. The increases aim to address the elevated expenses from manufacturing and logistics challenges.
Adjudicatory Board for Major Ports launches e-filing portal
The e-filing portal to enable online filing of cases and digital processing and management of case-related activities
Silver markets big problem may be ending, but a new worry is coming for investors
Silver could move from a supply deficit to a surplus in 2027 as rising inventories, weak jewellery demand and slowing industrial consumption ease market tightness, Metals Focus said. Silver has underperformed gold amid expectations of higher interest rates and falling investor demand.
CRC Group and Delhi Times host Lets Bring Back the Joy of Reading in New Delhi
CRC Group, in partnership with Delhi Times, held a dynamic event to stress the significance of reading amidst digital distractions. Authors, educators, and prominent business figures shared valuable perspectives on fostering a reading culture in younger audiences. Two enlightening panel discussions delved into the impact of evolving reading habits on education and personal growth.
Aadarsha Kutumbam House No: 47 AK 47 marks the reunion of Venkatesh Daggubati and Trivikram Srinivas. This film recently premiered in theatres and has received positive reviews from audiences. An OTT platform has already secured the digital streaming rights for the film, which will be available post theatrical release. Read on to know where to watch the film after its theatrical run.
Nicki Minajs evil Governor Kathy Hochul shares whats poisoning the rappers mind
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has addressed stark criticisms from rapper Nicki Minaj, who labeled her an evil woman and demanded her resignation, while endorsing Bruce Blakeman. In her response, Hochul implied that Minaj should engage with the world beyond social media. This feud sparked from comments Hochul made about Black children in the Bronx, adding fuel to an ongoing public debate as mid-term elections draw nearer.
NSIC presents Rs 47.76 crore dividend for FY 2025-26; highlights strong financial performance
NSIC Chairman-cum-Managing Director Subhransu Sekhar Acharya presented a dividend of 47.76 crore to Union Ministers. Acharya highlighted NSIC's strong financial performance, including a revenue of 3,767 crore and Profit After Tax of 159 crore. The Union Minister of MSME praised NSIC's role in empowering MSMEs and supporting government initiatives. Discussions on improving MSME partnerships with the Netherlands were also mentioned by Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.
Jill Wagner is appearing in a holiday film called A Very Arctic Christmas. She plays a wildlife conservationist helping a stranded family in an Arctic town. Wagner and her husband David Lemanowicz have two daughters and live on a Tennessee farm. The couple values raising their children in a small-town environment with community support.
IT Reassessment Invalid Without Mandatory Notice: SC
The Supreme Court ruled that income tax reassessment proceedings are invalid if the department fails to issue a mandatory Section 143(2) notice.
IndiGo shares rise 3.8% post Q2 results; analysts divided on recovery timeline
The rally comes despite the stock being 15% below its 52-week high of 5,970 hit in November 2025
Patrick Stewarts reflections on mortality have resurfaced following his death at 86. In an interview nearly 10 years earlier, the Star Trek actor described death as a closure of a chapter, not the end of existence. He also admitted he was getting close to being ready, while experiencing unprecedented happiness.
Govt doubles down on fisheries sector to transform Indias Blue Economy
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 30 (IANS) The government has significantly stepped-up public investment in the fisheries sector, committing Rs 39,272 crore through key schemes and programmes. These interventions are aimed at expanding infrastructure, strengthening production and post-harvest systems, and creating employment and livelihood opportunities for 74.66 lakh fishers and fish farmers across the country, according to an official statement on Friday. The key interventions are the Blue Revolution Scheme, Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samridhi Sah Yojana (PM-MKSSY) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC), according to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. A parallel focus has been placed on strengthening transportation and logistics networks, with 46,500 facilities, including fish transportation systems, retail and wholesale fish markets, kiosks, feed mills, ice plants, cold storages and value-added enterprise units, added with an investment of Rs. 3,393.85 crore. In addition, five modern and smart fish markets are under development, integrating advanced IT systems, green technologies and logistics supply chains, and are expected to generate 15,900 employment opportunities, said the ministry. The emphasis on value addition is also creating a stronger platform for womens participation in post-harvest activities and fisheries-based enterprises. Their empowerment has been prioritised under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), under which projects worth over Rs. 4,155 crore -- with a central share of Rs 1,572 crore -- have been approved over the last five years for the benefit of more than 1.28 lakh women beneficiaries. This support has enabled women to participate in diverse such as fish drying, preparation of fish pickles and papad, smoked fish products, fish powder, and packaging and retailing, the ministry observed. Indias fisheries sector is evolving from a production-focused activity into a dynamic, technology-driven and value-oriented pillar of the national economy. It plays a vital role in strengthening food and nutritional security, generating employment, supporting rural livelihoods and contributing to export earnings. The government has supported the formation of 2,195 Fisheries Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) enabling producers to aggregate output, pool resources and participate more effectively in processing, branding and marketing activities. Several of these organisations have also been integrated with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), widening their access to digital markets and improving prospects for fair price realisation. Under PM-MKSSY, 5,500 fisheries cooperatives are being strengthened to function as FFPOs in collaboration with intermediary agencies such as NCDC, NAFED, SFAC and NERAMAC.
India has seen a significant decline in poverty, with the rate dropping from 27.1 percent to 2.6 percent. Approximately 496 million people were lifted out of poverty between 2011 and 2023. Employment has increased, particularly among rural women, which contributed to this progress. However, youth unemployment has also risen, particularly among young rural women. The report highlights the need for productive employment opportunities to continue reducing poverty.
Stock Markets on Oct 30: Sensex, Nifty Up on Gains in IT Stocks
Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty extended their rally in early trade, driven by strong buying in IT firms and an earnings-driven surge in Tata Group's retail arm, Trent, which reported a 25 per cent increase in net profit.
SC Agrotech net profit surges to Rs 10.21 cr in July-Sept quarter
SC Agrotech has announced net profit for the quarter ending September 30, 2026, boasting a leap to Rs 10.21 crore from just Rs 21.21 lakh last year. The companys revenue from operations also surged, hitting Rs 45.26 crore. Over the first half of the year, net profit reached Rs 19.77 crore, a notable increase from Rs 23.17 lakh in the preceding period.
Supertech homebuyers move SC as 17 stalled projects remain stuck, Rs 30 crore spent
Homebuyers of Supertech Limited have raised significant concerns regarding the lack of progress on stalled housing projects. The Homebuyers Association alleges that funding for the projects has been repeatedly declined, despite available proposals. The Association urges the Supreme Court to appoint a One-Man Committee for project completion. They emphasize the financial burden on homebuyers due to growing expenses without any delivered units.
Ministry of Finance: The government has revised the Dearness Allowance for government employees continuing under the 5th and 6th Pay Commissions, effective 1 July 2026. Here are the revised DA rates, eligibility details, and the impact of the increase on monthly payouts.
IndiGo rises as higher fares, cost controls offset fuel-cost concerns
Stock was trading at 4,790, as of 09:34 a.m. IST, its highest level in two weeks. Benchmark Nifty 50 was up 0.16%
Nasscom seeks deferment of revised GST framework for e-commerce delivery services to January 1
The GST Council recommends a 5% rate without input tax credit, but companies are still awaiting the final notification
The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has urged Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi to defer the INDIA bloc's November 1 mega-rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan until after Diwali. The traders' body warned that the expected turnout of 10 lakh people and 15,000-20,000 vehicles could cause severe traffic congestion, disrupting business across 20 major markets during the peak festive shopping season. It has suggested postponing the rally or shifting it to Burari Maidan.
China vs US: The New War Over Cancer Drugs and Biotech Supremacy | The Morning Brief Decode
Financial advisor Prem Soni has identified three traps preventing Gen Z sons from leading Indian family businesses: limited financial authority, public criticism and delayed succession planning. He argues that fathers often blame their sons for lacking initiative while refusing to relinquish control. The post sparked debate over generational conflict and business succession.
Aamir Khan and Gauri Spratt celebrated their first Karwa Chauth together after their wedding in July. They attended a gathering hosted by Anil Kapoor and Sunita Kapoor in traditional outfits. Many Bollywood celebrities were present at the festivities. Read on!
IndiGos Q2FY27 loss narrows to 1,879 cr; high fuel costs weigh
Airline expects to recover about 60 per cent of fuel cost increase; retains FY28 capacity growth guidance
Gold and silver futures declined modestly on October 30, with MCX gold at 142,351 per 10 grams and silver at 1,88,943 per kg. Retail prices varied across major Indian cities, while jewellers may add making charges, taxes and GST.
The European Parliament anticipates that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement will be signed by mid-December 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the signing ceremony in Brussels. The agreement seeks to deepen investments and reduce supply-chain dependencies between India and the EU. Closer collaboration on defense and cybersecurity is also a priority for both parties.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a two-day visit to Gujarat, during which he will inaugurate and dedicate development projects worth Rs 14,000 crore, release the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN payments worth Rs 19,000 crore and flag off two trains. His itinerary includes laying the foundation stone for Ahmedabad Metro extensions and road upgrades, inaugurating child-friendly Anganwadi centres and participating in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at Ekta Nagar.
Sovereign Gold Bonds: RBI has fixed the premature redemption price of SGB 2019-20 Series VI at 14,213 per gram. Investors who purchased the bonds at the original issue price can earn capital gains of up to 275%, excluding interest and taxes.
India's services economy stays resilient as 17 sectors post growth
India's services sector recorded widespread growth in August, with 17 of the 19 tracked segments expanding and 13 registering double-digit gains, according to the trial Index of Service Production (ISP). Retail trade led the expansion with 19.9% year-on-year growth, followed by repair services and real estate at 17.6% each. Banking, insurance and IT services also reported strong growth, while CareEdge Ratings estimated overall services output rose 14%.
National highways face report card test
The road transport and highways ministry will soon start assessing the overall performance of national highways corridors to help improve the user experience.In a notification issued on Thursday, the ministry said two separate rating criteria will be adopted for access controlled expressways and designated high-speed corridors and normal national highways. These highways will be ranked across three categories, including highway efficiency, highway safety and user experience, with various sub-parameters under the three main categories.The rating of national highways is intended to provide a comprehensive assessment of the highway corridor and facilitate identification of deficiencies and prioritisation of measures for improvement, the ministry said.The ministry will consider peak congestion, level of service, pavement condition index, toll plaza rating, presence of automated teller machines (ATMs) every 20 km and uniformity of paved carriageway width while determining the rating under the highway efficiency parameter.Further, the number of accidents per 10 km per annum, the accident severity index, the number of fatalities and any project failures leading to road closures and diversions will be considered while determining the highway safety parameter ranking.
Young, slim and active but still at risk? Neurologist explains what people get wrong about stroke
Hyderabad neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar has highlighted 10 essential facts about strokes, warning that even young, slim and active people are at risk. He explained the BE FAST warning signs, the importance of immediate treatment and common mistakes to avoid. He also stressed controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol to reduce stroke risk.
The film Aadarsha Kutumbam House No: 47 AK 47 was released in theaters on October 30. While the opening acts were received well, opinions shift as the second half is perceived as inconsistent. Venkatesh Daggubati shone in his role, and Trivikram Srinivas's direction was recognised by some. Read on to know more about the movie.
Coal stocks may rise 10 million tonnes by December-end as electricity demand eases in winter
The government expects coal stocks at domestic coal-based thermal power plants to increase by around 10 million tonnes by December, supported by higher rake availability and lower electricity demand during winter. Coal stocks rose to 18.1 million tonnes on October 28 from 17.4 million tonnes five days earlier, while the number of plants reporting critically low stocks declined. The government is also considering a higher year-end stock target to prepare for next summer's peak power demand.
Bombay HC tells Shreya Life to rename antibiotic drug
The Bombay High Court has ordered the removal of Shreya Life Sciences antibiotic trademark Lefoxin Biox from the register, ruling that it was too similar to Glaxo Groups long-established heart drug Lanoxin. The court gave Shreya until December 31 to rebrand and communicate the change, with the new name to take effect from January 1, 2027.
NCLT, NCLAT 'hijacked' by corporate affairs ministry: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court expressed discontent with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs regarding appointments in the National Company Law Tribunals. The court emphasized the need for NCLT and NCLAT to gain full autonomy over their staff. It criticized arrangements outsourcing tribunal staff recruitment to private companies, which could jeopardize existing contractual employees. The court urged comprehensive proposals from NCLT and NCLAT presidents to improve operational requirements.
Biodiversity finance impasse clouds COP17 closing talks
Finance has become the main sticking point at COP17 in Armenia, with India, Brazil, China and other developing countries opposing efforts to widen the pool of nations contributing to biodiversity funding. They argue developed countries should first meet existing commitments, while the EU and others support bringing more countries into the funding base as negotiations remain deadlocked ahead of the summits close.
Adani Ports seen closing in on Salalah Port
NPPA list brings little relief: No price cut for 25% cancer drugs
Nearly one in four cancer drug packs in the NPPAs revised price list will see no reduction in MRP, even as the overall average cut across 643 packs is 38.22%. Several high-cost patented medicines remain unchanged, prompting patient advocates to question how much relief the trade-margin cap will actually deliver when the new prices take effect on November 9.
Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga face long road to redemption in China
Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga have apologised after the footballer sparked outrage in China with comments about former leader Mao Zedong. The controversy has led major Chinese brands to cut ties with the French striker, while La Liga matches have been pulled from state broadcaster CCTV. Experts warn that the apologies may not be enough to repair the damage to their reputation and commercial interests in the country.
The RBI has raised the interest rate on the Government of India Floating Rate Bond 2034 for the six-month period from 30 October 2026 to 29 April 2027 by 81 basis points. Here's what the revised rate means for investors and how the bond works.
SC cracks down on banks, seeks mandatory payouts to cyber fraud victims
The Supreme Court has questioned the Reserve Bank of India's effectiveness in preventing digital fraud. Financial institutions must be held accountable for their role in cybercrime under new regulations. A mandatory liability clause is essential to ensure victims are compensated for losses. The court emphasizes that banks should enhance preventive measures against unusual transactions. The Attorney General mentioned that the RBI is working on regulations to address these issues.
Mirzapur: The Movie is now streaming on OTT. This installment takes the audience deeper into the Mirzapur saga, featuring beloved characters Munna Bhaiya and Kaleen Bhaiya. With an impressive box office earnings of Rs 336.83 crore, it has garnered mixed reactions. Read on to know where to watch it online.
Who is Sunny Ozell? Meet Patrick Stewarts singer wife and the woman he met while she was a waitress
Patrick Stewart and his wife, Sunny Ozell, shared a nearly 13-year marriage after meeting at a Brooklyn restaurant in 2008. The couple married in Lake Tahoe in 2013. Ozell is an American singer-songwriter who released two albums and appeared in Star Trek: Picard.
Lula's 4th term offers push to India-Brazil ties
New Delhi, Oct 29:The year 2026 resembles 1991, and it could be deemed an inflection point for the Indian economy, which has been facing not only external challenges but also structural constraints in manufacturing, energy, agriculture and technology, Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said on Thursday. Addressing the ISID-IDRA national conference, Nageswaran further said that, in the global context, India is a source of macroeconomic stability and resilience, which sometimes tend to get forgotten in the noisy world of social media narratives. 2026 resembles 1991, and many of you should not immediately think that when we talk about the word resemblance, it is not the same as identical. Identical means that you have the same balance of payments crisis. No. The point is, it was an inflection point for us in 1991, and 2026 is also, or even 2025, could be deemed as inflection points for us, he said. Nageswaran said that while the 1991 balance of crisis brought four decades of accumulated constraints to a head- a moment of reckoning more than a passing shock- the external stress of 2026 has brought India to a fork in its growth journey and invites a fundamental re-examination of strategy. In 2026, the challenge is not only external. Structural constraints in manufacturing, energy, agriculture and technology add to the pressure, he said. Nageswaran pointed out that the worst shocks now arrive not because of accidents of nature, but by design. Just as last week, we saw China announcing an export licensing regime for tunnel boring machines and for many other products of infrastructure goods, which India will be needing, he said. The CEA said the weaponised dependence ends up eroding the more they are used, that is true. The more countries weaponise their supplies, they become less effective over time. But there is a period when they are binding, because other countries cannot ramp up production just like that, he said. Nageswaran observed that the next 20-30 years will be different from the 40 years pre-pandemic and added that most of the shocks which we faced before the pandemic were largely demand deficiency shocks. So central bankers and fiscal policy could just stimulate and try to get out of trouble, whether it is the 1987 stock market crash, 1990-91 savings and loan crisis, the East Asian crisis of 199798, 2001 tech bubble or the 2008 global financial crisis. Every single crisis was met with a standard playbook of low interest rates, together with or without quantitative easing, and some fiscal stimulus as well, he said. The CEA said it is easy to stimulate when you consider the problems as only a matter of demand deficiency, but when supply falls short, it is about real stuff. And that is not easily engineered or designed by monetary or fiscal policy. And higher interest rates, you can raise rates sky-high and cool an overheated economy, he said. Nageswaran said in the next 30 years, monetary policy will be much more difficult to execute in a world of supply shortages causing real economic disruptions, both to output and to inflation. Fiscal policy, broad support, stimulating of the economy where animal spirits are weak; it is easy to stimulate them with fiscal stimulus, he said.
IDBI Bank sale row: Finance Ministry defends valuation process, says reserve price was not changed
The finance ministry has defended the valuation process used in the IDBI Bank stake sale, saying the methodology and bidding procedure were reviewed and approved by the core group of secretaries on disinvestment. It said Fairfaxs Rs 81-a-share bid was above the benchmark and independent fair-value estimates, while safeguards such as a double-blind process and limited tax indemnity helped maximise value for the government and LIC.
Centre to tap IITs, NITs for nuclear tech courses to power India's 100 GW dream
India is addressing the workforce challenge posed by its 100GW nuclear power goal through new courses. Leading technical institutes like IITs and NITs are expected to introduce nuclear tech programs. A dedicated institute for nuclear technology training is also being planned as workforce development efforts gain momentum. Current estimates show that 2.5 lakh skilled personnel will be needed in the coming two decades.
Jailer 2, helmed by Nelson Dilipkumar and starring Rajinikanth, made a spectacular debut on October 15. The film now crossed Rs 500 crore mark in India. Notably, it surpassed Rajinikanth's previous hit, Coolie, which earned Rs 493.48 crore globally. Jailer 2's overseas earnings also shone. Read on!
Global FMCG giants find an Indian answer to their Western slowdown
Global consumer giants including PepsiCo, Nestle, Unilever, Pernod Ricard and Coca-Cola are increasingly looking to India for growth as demand slows in the US and Europe. Companies are betting on premiumisation, wider distribution and fast-growing channels such as ecommerce and quick commerce, with several reporting stronger momentum in India than in developed markets.
Production houses and media advisory firms are signing licensing agreements with film and television personalities to monetise their personal brands, digital images and distinctive attributes. With actors increasingly being viewed as intellectual property, companies are exploring opportunities such as digital avatars, content licensing and brand partnerships. The trend is also gaining traction as AI creates new possibilities, while raising the importance of consent and protection of personality rights.
Hacked! Largest crypto exchange lives its worst fear
Handset, TV makers set to slash production on festive sales shock
Smartphone and television makers are cutting production by up to 20% after a weak festive season left retailers with excess inventory and unit sales down sharply year-on-year. Surging memory-chip costs have pushed up device prices, hurting demand particularly in entry- and mid-range segments and forcing brands to scale back output over the next few months.
First-time investors turn to India's hospitality sector for diversified income and long-term growth
India is witnessing a rise in first-time hotel owners, with entrepreneurs, real estate developers, industrial families and landowners entering the hospitality sector. Nearly seven in 10 branded hotel keys signed this year are outside Tier 1 cities, according to Noesis Hotel Advisors. Industry executives say growing domestic travel, better connectivity and demand from leisure, business, weddings and pilgrimage are creating opportunities for new investors.
IndiGo reported a net loss of Rs 1,879 crore in the September quarter as a sharp rise in jet fuel prices and foreign exchange costs offset strong revenue growth. While revenue increased 26% year-on-year to Rs 23,363.8 crore, fuel costs surged more than 67%. The airline plans to raise fares, rationalise flights and maintain its long-term expansion plans, including the introduction of Airbus A350 aircraft in 2028.
Finmin pegs Q2 expansion at 7.35%,flags capital pressure over US yield
Indias economy is estimated to have grown 7.35% in the September quarter, supported by strong industrial output, GST collections, energy use, port traffic and auto sales, the finance ministry said. It expects domestic demand and investment to sustain momentum, while warning that high crude prices, food inflation, rupee pressure and elevated US bond yields could pose risks in the second half.
Rupee should be Indias first line of defence against energy shocks: IMF
IMF Communications Director Julie Kozack said foreign exchange intervention may be justified during disorderly market conditions, but flexibility remains preferable for India
Economy may grow 7.3% in Q2: Finance ministry
Soaring tech costs push shoppers towards EMIs
Japan's beleaguered shoppers are a worry for convenience stores and the economy
Kana Sekiya, 43, used to shop near a train station in Tokyo on her way back home from work. Now
Wall Street today saw one of the shocking losses as Google-parent Alphabet sufferedthe worst day since the company began trading at the US Stock Market.
Year 2026 resembles 1991, could be deemed as inflection point for Indian economy: CEA
New Delhi, Oct 29: The year 2026 resembles 1991, and it could be deemed an inflection point for the Indian economy, which has been facing not only external challenges but also structural constraints in manufacturing, energy, agriculture and technology, Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said on Thursday. Addressing the ISID-IDRA national conference, Nageswaran further []
Health insurers seek expense cap tweaks
Standalone health insurers have requested that mandatory insurance products be excluded from expense-of-management calculations. They argue that including these products creates an imbalance for their business model. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India is considering changes to EoM regulations and limits. Insurers believe that the exclusion would help provide a more equitable competitive landscape. The proposed changes aim to revise expense calculation methods and set product-wise commission caps.
West Asia conflict drives 15-20% rise in corporate working-capital demand at banks
Working-capital demand from banks has increased significantly due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Higher raw-material costs and elongated shipping timelines have led to greater funding needs for corporates. Mid- and large-sized companies reported a 12-20% increase in working-capital requirements. Several private sector banks have recorded strong growth in corporate lending during the recent quarter. This momentum was driven primarily by working capital needs and refinancing efforts.
India remains growth engine; Super El Nino impact yet to materialise: IMF
The IMF on Thursday said the impact of weather events such as the Super El Nino was yet to materialise for India, which remains the engine of growth for the world economy. The IMF listed lower crop yields, increased food price inflation and its impact on the purchasing power of households in India due to the Super El Nino. So these are risks that we see that India faces, but right now those risks have not materialised, IMF Communications Director Julie Kozack told a press conference here. She said the IMF will reassess India's growth projections in the January World Economic Outlook update after the risks posed by the weather event materialise. Earlier this month, the IMF raised India's growth forecast for fiscal year 2027 and fiscal year 2028 to 7 per cent, from the 6.4 per cent and 6.7 per cent projections respectively made in July. So, we see it really as a risk going forward, and of course depending on whether that risk materialises, we will reassess our growth projections
