30 C 
Core sector growth down to 4.8% in August
Core sector growth has been coming down mainly due to energy supply issues and fertilizer production decline
Global renewable capacity hits record 693 GW addition in 2025: IRENA
Global renewable power capacity expanded by a record 693 GW in 2025, taking total installed renewable capacity to 5.15 TW, according to IRENA. The pace has narrowed the gap to the COP28 goal of tripling renewable capacity by 2030, but the world remains short of the target. Rising electricity demand from cooling, AI and data centres is also limiting the displacement of fossil fuels, which still accounted for 86% of global energy in 2025.
Government dissolves 37-year-old Digital Communications Commission with immediate effect
The government has notified the dissolution of the Digital Communications Commission, the Department of Telecommunications' apex decision-making body established in 1989. The commission handled key telecom policy and financial matters, including spectrum pricing and Trai recommendations. Its last meeting on September 3 finalised the satcom spectrum decision, which now awaits Cabinet approval.
In 1954, Greyhound transformed bus travel with its Scenicruiser, featuring a raised observation deck, panoramic windows, air conditioning and reclining seats. Built to make highway journeys feel luxurious, the futuristic coach became an icon of American transportation. More than seven decades later, a surviving example heading to auction offers a glimpse into an era when the journey mattered as much as the destination.
J&K takes embryo technology to farmers to accelerate sheep genetic gains
The Sheep Husbandry Department, Kashmir has been providing the technology free of cost to progressive farmers since October 2025, through its Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) laboratory at Zakura
NHAI has introduced new guidelines for upcoming access-controlled high-speed National Highways to standardise design, improve road safety and enable smoother traffic movement. The framework covers four- and six-lane Greenfield and Brownfield corridors, with lane configuration and road width linked to traffic volumes. It also includes provisions for safer exits and entries, interchanges connecting key destinations, and one-metre-high boundary walls to prevent unauthorised access and stray cattle from entering high-speed corridors.
If youre invested in Nifty 50 index funds, REITs could offer a different asset exposure. Their positive returns and higher distributions over the past year highlight how REITs could add diversification to an equity-heavy mutual fund portfolio.
Gains need to be shared fairly with workers by industry, says CEA Nageswaran
A sustainable market depends on consumers having enough purchasing power to buy the goods and services businesses produce
The Finance Ministry reportedly called for a meeting with CEOs of public sector banks and regional rural banks today, to discuss measures to ensure smooth continuity of bank operations and essential customers services during the UFBU's 3-day national strike.
With the rise of AYUSH health insurance in India, Ayurveda treatment is becoming more accessible. Medical necessity and recognised hospitals are key for claims while inpatient care is typically covered.
A Rajdhani Express was briefly halted at Hawaipur in Assam's Hojai district after a herd of elephants, including young calves, began crossing the railway tracks. The unusual encounter, captured on video, was managed through coordination between the Assam Forest Department, the loco pilot and the Lumding Railway Control Room. The incident also highlights the importance of elephant corridors and wildlife safety measures along railway routes in Assam.
Alaska's Hawadax Island, once known as Rat Island, is witnessing a remarkable ecological recovery after scientists eradicated invasive rats in 2008. The rodents arrived after an 18th-century shipwreck and disrupted the island's natural food chain for centuries. Eleven years after their removal, native seabirds returned, shoreline grazers declined and kelp began thriving again. Researchers say the long-term recovery highlights how removing invasive species can restore damaged island ecosystems.
A six-foot humanoid robot stepped into a cage with a human fighter, and what happened next looked straight out of a Terminator movie. The viral REK video shows the machine delivering powerful kicks that sent Frankie LaPenna across the cage, raising a bigger question about how close human-like robots are to becoming a real part of everyday life.
In 2024, a Goodwill jewelry box contained a 14-karat gold LEGO mask; the rare Bionicle set sold for $18,000 after collectors recognized its hidden value. The piece was found in Pennsylvania and was first listed with a $14.95 starting bid. After 48 bids, the rare LEGO mask sold for $18,101. Only 30 such masks were made in 2001, with most distributed through a promotion.
Tom Cruises belief that life is an adventure offers lessons beyond Hollywood. His philosophy highlights embracing uncertainty, staying curious, preparing for difficult challenges and continuing to learn regardless of success. From moving frequently as a child to mastering filmmaking and demanding stunts, Cruises journey suggests that growth often comes from stepping beyond comfort zones and remaining open to new experiences.
Vice-President asks tea industry to build Indian brands for global markets
Addressing Centenary Conference of UPASI TRF, Radhakrishnan calls for modernisation, strengthening research in tea sector
Gas found near Odisha coast: ONGC has discovered gas in a deepwater exploration well in the Mahanadi Offshore Basin, around 43 km from Konark off the Odisha coast. The discovery, made under the Samudra Manthan deepwater exploration campaign, encountered gas at a depth of 1,4411,452 metres, with ONGC reporting encouraging flow and reservoir pressure. The find is subject to further appraisal and commercial evaluation, while its proximity to the coast and potential use of shared infrastructure could support development if commercial viability is established.
Global edible oil market likely to be volatile, says Solvent Extractors Association
El Nino, uncertainty around sunflower oil supplies amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Indonesias B50 biodiesel programme could alter the global vegetable oil balance, says SEA President Sanjeev Asthana
A man who moved to Australia 11 years ago to study could not find a job in his field and started working at a pizza shop. His journey later took him into franchise ownership, and by 2026, he reportedly had three pizza franchises, a house, a BMW, two children and Australian citizenship. His story, shared by led to a wider debate about hard work, career choices, immigration and dignity of labour.
How Avas is shaping Alibaugs emerging wellness real estate landscape
Avas is redefining luxury living in Alibaug with new residential communities, Casa Avana and the upcoming Avas Wellness Club, bringing together design, wellness, hospitality and recreation to create an integrated lifestyle destination.
Income plus arbitrage mutual funds: ICICI Pru tops 1-year returns at over 6%; know the portfolio mix
Income Plus Arbitrage FoFs combine debt and arbitrage exposure through underlying mutual fund schemes. Here's a look at the top five performers by 1-year returns and what the categorys portfolio mix looks like.
Rs 66,600 to live and work for a month in Leh. Couple working remotely break down their expenses
A remotely working couple, Anjali and Naman, spent a month living and working from Leh, Ladakh, and shared a detailed breakdown of their expenses. From Rs 30,000 accommodation and Rs 9,000 food costs to scooter rentals, groceries, outside meals and travel, their total spending came to Rs 66,600. Their Leh budget offers a glimpse into the real cost of embracing a work-from-mountains lifestyle.
What a higher PF wage ceiling means for employers and employees
The provident fund wage ceiling rises from 15,000 to 25,000, expanding mandatory EPF coverage to more employees and increasing employer contributions. This reform boosts retirement benefits but may reduce employees' take-home pay while enhancing social security alignment with wage realities.
Homegrown talent, MCC footprint to make India a global content production hub
India could emerge as a global content production hub by combining its growing AI capabilities, creative talent and expanding media global capability centres, industry experts said. The opportunity goes beyond traditional strengths such as VFX and outsourcing, with AI potentially enabling large-scale content production for global studios, streaming platforms and brands. Government initiatives including WAVES, WAVES Bazaar and Create in India Challenges are seeking to connect Indian creators with global markets, while investments in animation, VFX, gaming and comics are expanding the talent base beyond major cities.
India's infrastructure output rises 4.8% in August, shows govt data
The new series replaced the 2011-12 base year in June and expanded the core sector basket to nine industries from eight, with the inclusion of iron ore
India's core sector output slows to 4.8% in August as coal, gas, crude oil and fertilisers contract
Indias core sector output growth slowed to 4.8% year-on-year in August 2026 from 5% in July, provisional government data showed. Cement, electricity and iron ore led growth, while coal, natural gas, crude oil and fertilisers contracted. Cumulative core sector growth during April-August stood at 4.3%, against 2.4% a year earlier.
Colombo Port City woos Indian companies with India-plus-one pitch
Designed to attract high-value FDI, Port City Colombo facilitates sectors including financial services, IT and digital services, global trading, maritime and logistics, professional services, and regional headquarters operations
Central Railway recovered Rs 140.8 crore in penalties from 18 lakh ticketless and unauthorised travel cases between April and August, marking a 40% rise from the same period last year. Mumbai division recorded the highest collection at Rs 58.5 crore, while August alone saw Rs 19.5 crore recovered. Officials attributed the increase to intensified ticket checks and the revised minimum penalty, which rose from Rs 250 to Rs 500.
Scientists have discovered a previously unknown ape species in Egypt that lived 1718 million years ago, adding new clues to the origins of modern apes. Named Masripithecus moghraensis, the fossil jaw and teeth suggest North Africa may have played a greater role in ape evolution than previously thought, challenging the long-standing focus on East Africa.
Delhi to fund rooftop solar panels up to 3 kW for 2.25 lakh homes
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched a dedicated portal under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, offering free rooftop solar panel installations of up to 3 kW for 2.25 lakh households. The Delhi government will bear the entire installation cost, with registrations and allotments following a first-come, first-served system.
An eighth-grader from Pennsylvania is tackling heartburn with a novel antacid system designed to release medicine more slowly and potentially provide longer-lasting GERD relief, earning her a place among the US Top 30 researchers and a shot at more than $100,000 in awards, including a $25,000 top prize
Details are coming out, will study at appropriate time, says Goyal on Lindsey Graham Act impact
Social Security payments are going out this week, with the next round scheduled for September 23, 2026. Heres who is eligible for the payment, how the $5,181 maximum benefit works and why most retirees will receive less. Social Security benefits, paid mostly to older or retired Americans, are typically issued on Wednesdays.
The Ministry of Defence has signed a Rs 586-crore contract with Accurate Industrial Controls Private Limited to procure Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for the Indian Armys T-72 and T-90 tanks. The agreement was signed in New Delhi on September 21, 2026, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
India, Canada to hold next round of talks from October 5 for proposed trade pact: Goyal
The fourth round of negotiations concluded in New Delhi on September 18
Railway works worth over 20,000 crore under way in Kerala, says Vaishnaw
Mangaluru to stay in SWR zone; land acquisition lag holding up several sanctioned lines and doubling projects
EPFO: The All India Trade Union Congress wants the government to hike the EPF wage ceiling to 30,000 per month, saying 25,000 is too little, too late for social security benefits. Here are the reasons for the demand.
Dilip Buildcon sells stake in solar portfolio to Alpha Alternatives
Dilip Buildcon has divested its stake in a 1,363 MW under-construction solar portfolio to Alpha Alternatives.The portfolio has an estimated project cost of 6,263 crore, with Alpha Alternatives set to acquire DBLs remaining 51% stake upon completion.
Robin Williams character Parry in the cult classicThe Fisher Kingoffers an unusual formula for a good life: respect all kinds of life, have a nice bowel movement regularly and own a navy blazer. The memorable line reflects the films eccentric humour and Williams improvisational style. An Oscar-winning actor and comedian, Williams built a celebrated career spanning comedy, drama, thrillers, family films and animation, leaving a lasting legacy.
Navigating first-time property acquisition demands rigorous due diligence to mitigate high-stakes real estate risks. Before finalizing a land purchase, buyers must evaluate critical zoning laws, non-buildable setback requirements, and legal encumbrances to ensure optimal land utilization. Highlighted by Bengaluru entrepreneur Nirupa Shankar, assessing front road access dimensions, high-voltage utility corridors, stormwater drainage buffers, ecological proximity limits, and historic right-of-way pathways serves as an essential preliminary checklist for prospective real estate investors.
Maruti Suzuki targets 30% female intake at Manesar JIM, Uncha Majra by FY29
Maruti Suzuki India plans to raise female student intake at its Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing in Manesar to 30% by Academic Year 2028-29, from 9% currently. The automaker has introduced fee waivers for female students and plans a dedicated hostel and greater representation of women across faculty and support functions.
Gains must be shared fairly with workers by industry for achieving sustainable growth: CEA
Growth must translate into better jobs, higher wages and greater economic security for ordinary Indians, CEA Nageswaran says
India, Canada to hold next round of talks from Oct 5 for proposed trade pact: Goyal
The next 90 days should be a very defining period in the Canada-India relationship, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday
India, Canada to hold next round of talks from October 5 for proposed trade pact: Piyush Goyal
India-Canada CEPA negotiations are being fast-tracked, with the fifth round of talks scheduled to begin on October 5, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said. Both sides are targeting completion of the pact by the end of this year.
Can India build its own Big Four? The battle moves to the rulebook
India is moving to reshape its accounting sector as ICAI prepares Chartered Accountants Act changes aimed at enabling larger domestic firms. Proposed reforms could ease mergers, allow capital infusion, expand multidisciplinary professional services and reshape networking rules, while government procurement changes may widen opportunities. The push seeks globally competitive Indian professional-services firms to challenge the Big Four at global scale.
Two Bengaluru fitness trainers have found an innovative way to make workouts more accessible by bringing a fully equipped gym directly to apartment communities. Rithwik Radhakrishnan and Bhoomika Jayanna transformed a second-hand Maruti Eeco into a mobile fitness studio packed with dumbbells, kettlebells, slam balls and resistance bands. Their venture, Unleash 45, was born after challenges with apartment gym facilities, prompting the duo to create a self-funded mobile workout solut
These 7 indoor house plants look like luxury decor but wont burn a hole in your pocket
You do not need expensive decor to make your home look luxurious. Plants with dramatic foliage, distinctive shapes and lush growth can instantly elevate interiors without costing a fortune. Rubber plants, areca palms, monsteras, fiddle-leaf figs, bird of paradise, calathea orbifolia and Chinese money plants can create a high-end look. Thoughtful planters, varied heights and uncluttered spaces can make affordable greenery appear even more elegant.
Kerala plantation sector faces divergent fortunes amid climate, trade pressures
Higher prices for rubber and coffee offset by pressure on tea and cardamom, APK Chairman says
Who gets the fruits of Indias economic growth? CEA Nageswaran has an answer
Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran said Indias economic growth will lead to meaningful transformation only if its benefits are shared between workers and businesses.
India soyoil imports to rise to record high on price competitiveness
India's soyoil imports are projected to reach a record high in the upcoming marketing year. Higher soyoil purchases will offset declining sunflower oil shipments due to ongoing global conflicts. Palm oil imports are expected to increase, though its share will fall below fifty percent. Rising incomes are driving overall edible oil demand, which domestic production cannot meet.
Gulshan group inks partnership with Ourika Estates to develop projects in Ghaziabad and Lucknow
NCR-based Gulshan Group has partnered with Ourika Estates to develop two residential projects in Ghaziabad and Lucknow.
Govt should retain zero-fee UPI for few more years: NITI Aayog's former VC
NITI Aayog's former vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar on Monday suggested the government to continue with zero-fee UPI transactions for at least a few more years until the currency-to-GDP ratio shows some tendency to decline, and then review the situation. Kumar told PTI that he is not in favour of charging any fee from merchants for using UPI for any transaction value, and the government should treat it as a public good with extensive positive externalities. Their overall benefits well far outweigh the cost of Rs 20,000 crore that the public exchequer has to bear for maintaining the UPI infrastructure. ...so let's continue with zero-fee UPI transactions for at least a few more years until the currency-to-GDP ratio shows some tendency to decline, he said. While 96 per cent of unit transactions are less than Rs 2,000, it is estimated that nearly 66 per cent of transactions by value are above this level. This presents a very significant opportunity for transactions to shift back to cash
$127 bn foreign currency deposit mobilisation boost to Indian banks: S&P
S&P Global Ratings on Monday said the USD 127 billion mobilised by Indian banks through a special deposit scheme to attract US dollars is a shot in the arm for Indian banks as it has eased the tough funding conditions and boosted liquidity. Indian banks raised a record USD 127 billion in deposits through foreign currency non-resident bank (FCNRB) accounts between June 8 and August 31, 2026. S&P said the amount is equivalent to about 4.5 per cent of the banking system's deposit base as of March 31, 2026. India's banks have received a shot in the arm. Favourable rates mobilised the country's diaspora to channel large deposits back home. We see this as broadly positive. The momentum has eased the tough funding conditions, in which credit growth has exceeded deposit growth for the past four years, it added. To attract foreign capital, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) between early June and August absorbed the full hedging cost for the principal on these 3-5 year tenor ...
Where to find pre-approved used car loans online without hidden fees
Streamlined used-car platforms are revolutionizing the buying experience by presenting pre-approved loan options with transparent charges. Unlike traditional banks that may provide attractive rates, they often require lengthy paperwork. Its essential for buyers to evaluate interest rates and associated costs prior to financing. Financing eligibility is determined by credit scores, income verification, and current debt levels. Services like Cars24 simplify vehicle purchases by incorporating financing directly into the process.
Bank unions are planning a three-day nationwide strike from September 28 to 30. Here's whether your EMI and credit card bill payments will be disrupted.
Former NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar has urged the government to keep UPI merchant payments free for a few more years, warning that even a small fee could push transactions back towards cash. His comments come after the government announced a 0.4% MDR on UPI merchant payments above Rs 2,000 from October 15, while keeping consumer payments free.
AI's Wobbly House Of Cards Puts Markets And US Economy At Risk
Some investors are growing skeptical that they'll see returns to justify the money being spent. And interest rates are going up, making the massive borrowing needed to fund AI more expensive.
State-owned Balmer Lawrie to demerge Travel & Vacations unit
Balmer Lawrie's board approved demerging its travel unit into a subsidiary. This move aims for operational agility and significant revenue growth. The division currently generates Rs 390 crore in annual revenue. Management expects the business to surpass Rs 500 crore within three years. This restructuring will attract specialized talent and new technologies.
Throughout the years, Tamil cinema has masterfully adapted numerous literary works. For instance, Asuran brings the gripping tale of Vekkai to the big screen, while Ponniyin Selvan celebrates the rich narrative from Kalki's epic saga. Read on to know when and where to watch these Tamil movies that were adapted from novels.
Indian oil refiners may cut Russian cargoes in wake of US threats
The new US law empowers President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on countries that purchase Russian crude - a list that includes India
$127 bn foreign currency deposit mobilisation a 'shot in the arm' for Indian banks: S&P
A notable achievement for Indian banks occurred as they received USD 127 billion through a dedicated deposit scheme. This influx has significantly improved the funding environment and liquidity levels. Favorable interest rates lured substantial deposits from the diaspora, ultimately fortifying banks' funding stability. This positive trend in deposits could enhance balance sheets by USD 190-220 billion, bridging any existing asset-liability gaps.
Unify Group marks ten years of success with The Grand Gala
Celebrating a decade of excellence, Unify Group hosted an impressive gala event that showcased its remarkable journey since its inception in 2016. Initially rooted in healthcare, the organization has boldly ventured into travel, logistics, and technology, paving the way for future innovations. The evening was a tribute to their significant milestones and a look ahead at the blossoming opportunities in their expanding portfolio.
MeitY Secretary urges Microsoft to locate future data centres closer to power generation hubs
MeitY Secretary S Krishnan urged Microsoft to build data centers near power generation sites. This move would significantly reduce electricity transportation costs and improve infrastructure economics. India's expanding data center and AI infrastructure can leverage the nation's robust electricity grid. The policy environment in India now facilitates easier data center construction and grid connectivity. Investments in this infrastructure will create construction jobs and foster higher-quality research and development roles.
Anand Mahindra highlighted the revival of Maharashtras Kham River as his Monday Motivation, praising the collective effort of citizens, civic authorities, NGOs and other stakeholders. Once treated as a sewage drain, the river has undergone extensive restoration, with waste removal, sewage treatment, tree planting and riverfront development. The project has also earned international recognition, including the 2024 St Andrews Prize.
What is duration risk in debt funds and how does it affect your NAV? 4 things investors should know
Debt fund NAVs can fluctuate when bond yields change, with longer-duration portfolios generally more sensitive to interest-rate movements. Investors should assess modified duration along with maturity, credit quality, yield-to-maturity and their investment horizon.
Govt studying details of US tariffs on Russian oil buyers: Piyush Goyal
The bill authorises Trump to impose stiff tariffs of up to 100% on China, India, and other countries to reduce their dependence on Russian energy
India studying details of US tariffs on Russian oil buyers: Piyush Goyal
India is examining details of potential US tariffs on Russian oil buyers, Piyush Goyal says. Washington is increasing pressure on nations still purchasing Russian energy resources. A new US law allows tariffs up to 100% on Russian oil and gas importers. Major buyers like India and China face potential higher duties on their US exports. The legislation takes effect within thirty days, impacting global energy trade.
Kajal Aggarwal recently spoke about relationships in the age of social media and how phones can affect communication between couples. She stressed the importance of spending quality time together. Kajal and her husband Gautam Kitchlu, who went from being friends to life partners, make time for each other through their weekly dinner dates.
From homes to high-rise buildings: Vectus approach to water storage
Vectus presents an extensive selection of water tanks, ranging from 100 to 30,000 liters. These tanks cater to various installations including overhead, underground, and loft. With both premium and economy lines available, Vectus employs multi-layer tank technology to ensure robust performance and longevity across multiple uses. Their comprehensive manufacturing network across India further enhances their diverse offerings.
DP World Cochin receive new shipping service connecting India to Middle East hubs
The new service provides customers with faster access to key Middle East markets, expands connectivity options and strengthens supply chain resilience for businesses across southern India
Govt taking steps to build harmonised data infrastructure: MoSPI Secretary
In a transformative move, India is developing an integrated data framework for enhanced information discovery and application. This process consists of five stages focusing on the unification of governmental data, with a strong emphasis on maintaining vital metadata. Establishing uniform definitions and identifiers will bridge various data pools across ministries and states. Evaluating data quality will be pivotal following harmonization.
In a recent turn of events, RJ Ejaz Waris from Pakistan has issued a heartfelt apology to actress Katrina Kaif, following his body-shaming comments. His introspection was sparked by Salman Khan's defense of Katrina on Bigg Boss. Waris conveyed genuine remorse over his insensitive remarks and apologized to Salman and those affected, recognizing the impulsive nature of his expressions.
Indian broadcasters seek immediate restoration of BARC ratings
Indian broadcasters have called for the immediate restoration of BARC television ratings, saying the prolonged suspension has affected advertiser confidence, revenue visibility and festive-season media planning.
A three-day bank strike from September 28 to 30 may disrupt banking operations. The Finance Ministry has set up a meeting with public sector bank executives to ensure continuity of essential services. Details here.
India-New Zealand trade pact to come into force on Oct 20: Piyush Goyal
The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement will come into force on October 20, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday. The two countries had on April 27 signed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to boost two-way commerce in goods and services and promote investments. The agreement will come into force on Dussehra, which is on Oct 20, Goyal said. The FTA provides duty-free access for 100 per cent of India's exports to New Zealand. Currently, New Zealand maintains peak tariffs of up to 10 per cent on key Indian goods, including ceramics, carpets, automobiles, and auto components. New Zealand has committed to invest USD 20 billion over 15 years in India.
India-New Zealand trade pact to come into force on Oct 20: Goyal
The FTA provides duty-free access for 100% of India's exports to New Zealand.
Indian Oil's board approved a significant investment for a new natural gas pipeline. This 424.65-km project will connect Kochi and Thoothukudi in southern India. The pipeline will enhance natural gas transmission infrastructure across the region. It will support city gas networks and industrial consumers. This development strengthens existing gas supply networks in southern India.
Presley Gerber and model Lexi Wood dated briefly in late 2022 after knowing each other as friends for years. The couple made their relationship Instagram official, with both publicly expressing their affection. People reported that Gerber said he had loved Wood since meeting her, while Wood said he asked to take things further within a week. E! News later reported their split.
India's jute sector is poised for an impressive recovery this fiscal year, forecasting a remarkable twenty percent rise in domestic demand following earlier downturns. The drop in raw jute prices is expected to elevate profitability and margins across the board. Enhanced export opportunities combined with innovative value-added products further enhance growth prospects. The sector's financial health is anticipated to improve, buoyed by strong cash generation.
Nearly 40% of India's coal power plants running critically low on fuel, data show
Nearly 40% of Indias coal-fired power plants are operating with critically low coal stocks as high power demand and weather disruptions affect supplies.
SIM card misuse can attract 50 lakh fine, 3-year jail: DoT warns users, heres what you should check
DoT has warned mobile users that fraudulent SIM issuance, misuse of telecom identifiers and IMEI tampering can attract up to 3 years in jail and a 50 lakh fine. Users can check mobile connections issued in their name and verify handset details through the governments Sanchar Saathi portal and app.
Chinese govt goes into cover-up mode as economy falters: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 21 (IANS) While China has been viewed as the worlds manufacturing hub, the countrys economy, that was once growing at a robust pace, has hit a rough patch with key sectors in contraction mode and unemployment on the rise, according to a new report. The Chinese economy is faltering, and the government is working tirelessly to conceal the depth of its crisis. Official GDP growth figures continue to hover around 4.55 per cent, but independent analysts and institutions suggest the real number is far lower, closer to 23 per cent, according to an article in the Kathmandu-based hamrakura.com news website. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has long relied on economic performance as a cornerstone of its legitimacy. Growth figures are celebrated as proof of competence, while dissenting voices are silenced. But the cracks are now too wide to ignore. The property sector, once the engine of household wealth, has collapsed, the article states. It underscores that real estate investment fell by nearly 18 per cent in 2026, leaving millions of apartments unsold and families unable to build financial security. Retail sales, a measure of consumer confidence, grew by barely 1 per cent in June 2026, reflecting a population that is saving rather than spending. Debt levels, particularly among local governments, have soared to unsustainable heights. The CCPs has cracked down with more control instead of economic reforms to revive the weak consumer demand in the country. Official statements describe the economy as within a reasonable range, but this is merely a part of a political cover-up. Independent economists, including those at the IMF, warn that Chinas slowdown is structural, not cyclical. By inflating figures, local Chinese officials secure funding, and the central leadership maintains the illusion of prosperity. But this facade is cracking. Satellite imagery of night-time lights, a proxy for real economic activity, shows stagnation in industrial zones once thought to be booming. Social media is filled with stories of shuttered factories, unpaid wages, and workers protesting outside locked gates, the article points out. It highlights that Chinas GDP growth is declining due to several reasons which include the property crisis that has destroyed household wealth, leaving consumers cautious and unwilling to spend. Debt has ballooned, particularly in local governments, that borrowed heavily to fund infrastructure projects with little return. Exports, once a reliable engine of growth, are now under pressure as global demand slows and trade tensions rise. Even in sectors where China appears strong, such as electric vehicles, the reality is grim: price wars have eroded margins, and more than half of major automakers are reporting losses, the article states. It further points out that the situation is worsening rapidly as even civil servants and teachers in secure government jobs now face delayed salaries and unpaid benefits. In Shenzhen, a city long portrayed as Chinas success story, homelessness is rising. Elderly citizens line up at dawn to secure spots in markets to sell vegetables, a stark symbol of shrinking opportunity. The middle class is cutting back on essentials, signalling a collapse in confidence which can make only matters worse.
India-New Zealand FTA finalised; comes into force next month: PM Christopher Luxon
New Zealand and India have finalized a free trade agreement which will take effect next month. This landmark deal opens doors for New Zealand businesses to access India's large consumer market. India will provide duty-free access for one hundred percent of its exports to New Zealand. New Zealand offers market access for seventy percent of its tariff lines to India.
Personalization of benefits is no longer an HR perk, it's leadership imperative
A 24-year-old starting a career, a new parent, a mid-career employee supporting ageing parents and a colleague managing a chronic health condition do not face the same risks. Giving all of them an identical health insurance package may be administratively equal, but it is not experienced as fair.
Worlds best airlines 2026: Singapore Airlines tops list; where do Air India, IndiGo rank?
Singapore Airlines has been named the worlds best airline for 2026 in Skytraxs World Airline Awards, ahead of Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific. Among Indian carriers, Air India jumped 27 places to 57th globally and topped the India and South Asia ranking, while IndiGo slipped to 61st from 39th last year.
Cindy Crawford and her family are seeking privacy following a heartbreaking personal tragedy. Tragically, her son, Presley Gerber, died at the young age of twenty-seven on Sunday. The authorities have not disclosed the circumstances surrounding his death. Presley had openly discussed his mental health challenges throughout his life and became a successful model starting at the age of sixteen.
Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatias The Vvaan - Force Of The Forrest has landed in controversy ahead of its September 25 release. Vocalist Sargam Vaish has alleged that the makers used his version of Aigiri Nandini in the trailer without permission. He has asked the team to remove the song and clarify whether they had a valid licence for its use.
India-New Zealand FTA ratified, will enter into force on October 20
The agreement will see New Zealand removing all tariffs on all goods imported from India, while India will remove or reduce tariffs on 95% of current imports from New Zealand
Biocon arm gets positive EMA panel recommendation for breast cancerbiosimilar Pebrilzo
Biocon Biologics has received a positive recommendation from the European Medicines Agencys CHMP for its Pertuzumab biosimilar, Pebrilzo, for HER2-positive breast cancer. The European Commission will take the final decision on marketing authorisation across the EU.
ISL appoints Karan Yadav as CEO under new club-led model
Karan Yadav has been appointed as the new chief executive officer of the Indian Super League. He brings nearly two decades of experience in sports and media to the role. Yadav will lead the league office and oversee its strategic and commercial direction. His responsibilities include strengthening stakeholder relationships and ensuring long-term league growth. This appointment marks a new chapter for the ISL under its club-led model.
