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8th Pay Commission: What happens after the commission submits its report? 5 key steps explained
The 8th Pay Commission is expected to submit its report by May-June 2027, tentatively. Read on to know what happens next, how the Centre will examine salary and pension recommendations, and when central government employees may receive revised pay and arrears.
Bengaluru to become fastest-growing city as global companies home in on talent: Savills Exec
Global corporations are increasingly considering diverse locations, particularly India, for talent acquisition and growth. Bengaluru is projected to be the fastest-growing major city by 2035, according to Savills analysis. Other Indian cities like Chennai and Hyderabad are also showing strong potential in terms of GDP growth and population increase. The demand for global capability centers in India is expected to continue rising in the future.
TN aims to grow merchandise exports to $72 billion in this fiscal
Plan to make Kancheepuram as India's top exporting district
IREDA appoints ex-REC executive Jatin Kumar Nayak as CMD
Jatin Kumar Nayak has taken charge as the Chairman and Managing Director of Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency. Before this position, he served as Executive Director of Finance at REC Ltd and has three decades of experience. His previous roles include working with NHPC, Hindustan Copper, and National Aluminium Company Ltd. Nayak holds a Master's degree in Commerce and is a qualified Company Secretary.
Sovereign Gold Bonds: The RBI has fixed the premature redemption price of Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB) 2021-22 Series VII at 14,167 per gram. Investors redeeming their bonds can earn capital gains of nearly 200% over the original issue price.
'Modi's visit to Canada in December will be another building block': Jaishankar meets Anita Anand
S Jaishankar met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to discuss diplomatic relations between India and Canada. They agreed that Prime Minister Modi's visit in December will strengthen their ties further. Previous tensions arose after allegations against India regarding a separatist's killing earlier this year. Relations have improved since Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's election and visit to India.
Vaigai Express service has been running since 1977. The Vande Bharat on the same corridor started only in 2023. On October 24, running late and through two delays, the Vaigai still matched the Vande Bharats Chennai-Madurai time of 5 hours and 35 minutes. Some things just do not get old.
Pacer Auqib Nabi included to India's squad for first three ODIs against New Zealand
Auqib Nabi has been added to India's ODI squad for the first three matches against New Zealand. This change comes after Prasidh Krishna was ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury. The ODI series is scheduled to begin on November 4, 2026, at Eden Park in Auckland. India will also have several key players in their updated lineup for the matches.
Gold, silver prices today, 31 October: Check the latest prices and up-down movement for precious metal investors in Garden City. We also bring retail prices of 18K, 22K and 24K gold and 999 Fine silver across cities Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
The RBI may begin a pilot of polymer 10 and 20 notes on April 1, 2027, keeping their dimensions unchanged to avoid costly ATM adjustments. The trial will assess durability, public acceptance and operational feasibility; polymer notes would circulate alongside paper currency.
Setbacks are inevitable. The best thing you can do for yourself is not giving up. Taking to Instagram, Acquisition.com CEO and managing partner Sharran Srivatsaa shared his incredible journey from being a janitor to making it as a tennis coach and later as an entrepreneur through a viral video.
Rajinikanth's Jailer 2 continues its box office run, earning Rs 435.66 crore India net by Day 17. His daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth praised the film, calling it a sensational blockbuster and celebrating his 51 years in cinema. She also lauded director Nelson Dilipkumar, composer Anirudh Ravichander and the cast and crew.
US forces have been laser-focused in this effort, in coordination with regional partners, other US government teammates, and the shipping industry
Andhra Pradesh pension update: The State Election Commission (SEC) has allowed social security pension payments to existing beneficiaries during the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), but has prohibited new enrolments, pension increases, and revisions until the election code remains in force.
Diljit Dosanjh sends strong message at Aura tour in Delhi, says 'don't teach Punjabis how to fight'
Diljit Dosanjh commenced his India leg of the Aura tour at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, attracting numerous fans. The concert faced initial uncertainty due to security concerns but proceeded with enhanced measures in place. During the performance, Dosanjh expressed gratitude to fans, while also addressing his critics. He performed popular songs and engaged actively with the audience throughout the evening.
UK minister calls for speedier India-UK healthcare innovation, adoption
Britain and India must move beyond healthcare breakthroughs to ensure innovations benefit patients at scale, UK Health Minister James Frith has said. In an address to the annual 'Westminster Diwali' gathering organised by India Global Forum (IGF) in London this week, the minister in the Department of Health and Social Care highlighted progress over 100 days since the bilateral Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was implemented in mid-July. He identified a gap between scientific discovery and real-world adoption as one of the biggest challenges facing healthcare systems across both countries. The next great challenge in healthcare innovation is not simply discovery, but adoption, said Frith. We know how to innovate. What we have too often struggled to do is to take what works and make it work everywhere. India brings extraordinary strengths in digital innovation and delivery at population scale. Britain brings world-leading research, life sciences and the unique
Jordon Hudson's relationship with Bill Belichick came to an end in late 2025, marking a discreet breakup while ensuring their business ties and friendship remain intact. At just 25, Hudson previously dated 64-year-old businessman Joshua L. Zuckerman, who had defended her reputation amid claims of being a gold digger during her time with Belichick. Their conversations often revolved around business strategies, psychological insights, and a mutual appreciation for nature.
S Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Atlanta. The meeting focused on enhancing India-US cooperation and addressing geopolitical issues. Jaishankar emphasized that military solutions are not viable for resolving global challenges. Rubio also highlighted the importance of protecting economic and maritime security during the discussions. The G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting concluded with crucial dialogues on international economic stability.
Nagpur Metro's 257-metre engineering feat
Banks in Gujarat are closed today 31 October, despite it being the fifth Saturday of the month. Is the closure limited to Gujarat or are banks in other states also shut? Check the state-wise holiday details and PM Modi's Gujarat visit.
Wealthy Indian investors are holding liquidity and planning phased investments across diverse market segments. The focus is on both domestic and international markets, including the US, China, and South Korea. Private markets and credit opportunities are also gaining traction among ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Real estate investments are evolving with increased interest in Alternative Investment Funds, which have doubled over the last year.
Delhi-NCR combats air pollution: Govt, private offices capped at 50% capacity from Nov 5-20
Stating that high levels of air pollution in the NCR, particularly episodic increases during periods of adverse meteorological conditions, have been a matter of serious concern
Centre extends duty exemption on cotton imports till Dec-end
The Finance Ministry through a notification on Friday, extended the customs duty exemption till end of December from the earlier deadline of Oct 31
Bill Belichick, the head coach of North Carolina, and his ex-girlfriend Jordan Hudson remain friends after their split. Hudson, the founder and CEO of Trouble Club Enterprises, continues to work in media management. She also serves as the chief operating officer at Belichick Productions since August 2023. Both continue to collaborate on various business ventures despite their personal separation.
India's domestic air traffic fell 8.3% in Sep as demand remained under pressure: IATA
IATA said global Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK) fell 0.5% year-on-year in September, improving on Augusts 0.8% drop
Central government employees may see DA rise to 67% in January 2027 from the current 63%. Understand the AICPI-IW calculation, basic calculation formula, expected increase and whether this could be the last DA hike before the 8th Pay Commission recommendations are implemented.
Elon Musk revealed that he starts his day with steak, eggs and coffee, contrasting his diet with vegetarian tech leaders Sam Altman, Sundar Pichai and Dario Amodei. While Altman prefers fasting and espresso, Pichai sticks to eggs, toast and chai. Dario became vegetarian after following his sister Daniela's example.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Boost Tourism and Economy Between Delhi and Kashi
Uttar Pradeshs CM announces the launch of Vande Bharat sleeper train to enhance tourism and economic activities between Delhi and Kashi. Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Boost Tourism and Economy Between Delhi and Kashi
PFRDA has introduced the UPS Jeewan Setu - Digital Life Certificate facility to simplify annual life certificate submission for pensioners under the Unified Pension Scheme. Heres how the new Aadhaar-based facility works, where pensioners can access it, and what deadline they need to keep in mind.
Jordon Hudson and Bill Belichick reportedly ended their relationship in late 2025, according to reports. Following their breakup, Hudson's relationship status has become uncertain but fans are speculating about her new boyfriend. Some social media users have humorously suggested that her new companion could be football legend Lee Corso. Despite their breakup, Hudson and Belichick maintain a professional connection and remain friends.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has launched a cutting-edge real-time display showing coach occupancy on its Pink Line. This innovative system allows passengers to view crowd levels through screens installed on platform stations before boarding. By utilizing load sensors to monitor occupancy, it helps mitigate overcrowding during peak travel periods, thereby enhancing comfort and ensuring a more enjoyable journey for all commuters.
In a viral video, the actor, boxer, and TikTok star was seen being pummelled by several assailants. The scuffle comes a month after Hall was arrested on felony domestic violence charges following an alleged July incident in Las Vegas with ex-Mika Lafuente. He flaunted his injuries on social media a day after the scuffle.
Sunny Deol was 'worried' about doing Ikka, reveals producer. What changed his mind?
Sunny Deol was initially apprehensive about doing Ikka because the courtroom drama had no action, recalls Netflix India's Ruchikaa Kapoor Sheikh. Known for his action-hero image, the actor was eventually convinced to experiment with the genre. Ikka, which also stars Akshaye Khanna, marked Sunny's OTT debut and premiered on Netflix on July 10.
Selma Blair recently spoke on Instagram following her arrest for allegedly assaulting two flight attendants. She expressed her regrets and stressed that she never intended to hurt or frighten anyone. Blair said there was an ongoing legal case. Her attorney had earlier explained that her health condition contributed to a state of confusion during the flight.
PNB credit card charges will change from November 1, 2026, for Visa and RuPay users. Check revised ATM withdrawal fees, late payment charges, utility bill transaction fees, reward point redemption costs and other important changes affecting cardholders.
Halloween rallies: Gen Z protests reach Germany
EAM Jaishankar slams sanctions, chokepoints disrupting global energy trade, holding prices hostage
S Jaishankar highlighted the challenges posed by disruptions in global oil supplies during the G20 meeting. He pointed out that the current energy crisis results from unpredictability and significant disruptions. Jaishankar emphasized the need for the G20 to ensure that energy markets remain open and predictable. He also mentioned India's efforts in critical minerals and the necessity for reliable energy supplies.
This art festival reveals why the creative economy is as much about audiences as creators
In this photo essay, we showcase more highlights from the Contemporary Now arts festival in Chennai, along with director insights.
US oil companies aim to squeeze more out of refineries as war supply crunch weighs
US oil companies are enhancing refinery capacities and reopening closed plants due to global supply disruptions. ExxonMobil and Chevron reported record profits, attributed to soaring commodity prices and refinery margins. Additionally, ongoing conflicts have severely impacted refining output, particularly in Russia and Iran. Analysts suggest that it may take until next year for supply chains to stabilize.
Jordon Hudson and Bill Belichick have parted ways after their engagement ended late last year. However, they are committed to keeping their business dealings intact while nurturing their friendship. Jordon has been seen venturing into new relationships lately, though her current romantic status is somewhat ambiguous. Despite swirling rumors, Belichick has shown unwavering support for Hudson's efforts in managing his brand during this significant transition in their lives.
Russia, US peacekeeping mission in limbo
Bank branches across India will remain open on Saturday, 31 October 2026, as it is the fifth Saturday of the month. However, a state-specific holiday will affect banking operations in certain regions. Check city-wise closures for SBI, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and others.
ISRO launches GSLV-F18 with NVS-03, boosts NavIC & make-in-india navigation capabilities
What to know about the $6.3B hack on Binance, likely the biggest-ever crypto theft
Binance says hackers stole more than $6 billion in what is being described as the largest cryptocurrency heist on record, with blockchain intelligence firms linking the attack to North Koreas TraderTraitor hacking unit. The exchange has set aside $6.34 billion to cover losses, frozen about $3 billion in affected assets with partners and says it will reimburse users while investigators trace the stolen funds.
4 killed, 2 hurt in Delhi's Mangolpuri factory fire
Startup bug bites fewer IIT, IIM alumni
New Delhi: Fewer graduates from Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are taking the entrepreneurial path in 2026 compared to last year, although India's appetite for startups remains strong.Only 79 IIT alumni and 20 IIM alumni launched new tech startups between January and August this year, compared to 307 IIT graduates and 71 IIM graduates who founded startups in the entire 2025, according to Tracxn data collated for ET. The platform tracks only the year of incorporation for tech startups, so it does not have comparable January-August 2025 data.Also Read: Not Just AI - How soft skills are becoming key to getting hiredFurther, according to Tracxn data, 6,353 tech startups were founded until August this year, compared with 3,969 in the whole of 2025.The increase in the number of startups being founded is a positive sign, but the real question is who is making that transition. The fact that we are not seeing a meaningful increase in founders from the IITs and IIMs suggests there is still a large, untapped pool of talent, said Vikram Gupta, founder and managing partner, IvyCap Ventures.Also Read: Centre to tap IITs, NITs for nuclear tech courses to power India's 100 GW dream135376542AI & Layoffs as Decisive FactorsIf India wants to build the next generation of enduring companies, entrepreneurship must become a more viable career choice for a much wider talent pool, Gupta said.According to Saakshi Gera, managing director at Kedaara Capital, startups are increasing largely because artificial intelligence (AI) and no-code tools have dramatically reduced the cost of launching a venture, while layoffs have made entrepreneurship a more viable fallback option.But volume isn't quality. Investors continue to prioritise sustainable unit economics, and India's most credentialed talent is increasingly choosing safer, AI-adjacent jobs instead, Gera said.More IIT graduates take the entrepreneurial route than IIM alumni. India had 196,704 tech startups as of August 2026, according to Tracxn. Of these, 6,147 had at least one IIT founder, while 2,102 had at least one IIM founder.IIT alumni continue to account for a substantially larger share of startup founders than IIM alumni, which is consistent with the larger IIT alumni base and the strong engineering and deep-tech orientation of many technology startups, said Neha Singh, cofounder of Tracxn. The technical founders have the tendency to initiate ventures early, often complemented by business expertise from IIM graduates or other professionals as companies scale.For the study, the market intelligence platform considered alumni from IITs including Bombay, Delhi, Kharagpur, Kanpur, Madras, Roorkee, Jodhpur, Hyderabad, Guwahati, BHU (Varanasi), Mandi, Bhubaneswar and ISM Dhanbad, as well as IIMs at Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Indore, Lucknow, Udaipur, Nagpur, Kashipur, Sirmaur and Sambalpur. According to Tracxn, it takes time to fully incorporate a company formally. The full incorporation figures as well as the final share for startups founded in 2026 will only be known later. This may rise to some extent, said Singh.
New-age beauty brands enjoy revenue glow-up
New-age beauty and personal care brands in India demonstrated impressive revenue growth in fiscal year 2026. Companies like Foxtale and Innovist achieved significant increases, doubling and tripling their sales figures. In contrast, older brands such as Sugar Cosmetics experienced revenue declines due to intensified competition and a lack of product innovation. Many newer brands focus on niche market segments and specific consumer problems to attract customers.
Mark Carney Rejects Trumps Tariff Deal On Cam; Pumps $1.6 Billion In Canada Economy Amid EU Pivot
Mark Carney is doubling down on Canadas push for greater economic independence as Ottawa resists U.S. trade demands and deepens ties with Europe.Canada suspended earlier negotiations with Washington after concluding that proposed U.S. terms went too far and were not in Canadas national interest. The Canadian government said it would not accept a deal that undermined workers, businesses, strategic industries or sovereignty.At his latest press conference, Carney revealed that sovereignty itself had become a sticking point in talks with the United States.
J&K constitutes four-tier mechanism to implement Circular Economy Policy 2026
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Jammu and Kashmir government has constituted a four-tier institutional mechanism comprising a UT-level Circular Economy Mission, Steering Committee, District Circular Economy Cells and Urban Local Body (ULB)-level committees for the implementation of the Jammu and Kashmir Circular Economy Policy, 2026. According to an order, the mechanism has been established to ensure coordinated implementation of the policy, strengthen waste management systems, promote resource recovery and facilitate the development of circular economy-based enterprises and livelihoods across the Union Territory. The Jammu and Kashmir Circular Economy Mission will function as the apex body, providing overall supervision and reviewing the progress of policy implementation. It will meet at least once every six months and review inter-departmental coordination, employment and livelihood targets, financial and administrative bottlenecks, and implementation-related issues. The Mission will also guide the implementation of the Circular, Circular+ and Circular++ frameworks and issue directions to departments and agencies to ensure convergence in the execution of the policy. A Steering Committee has also been constituted to oversee the operational implementation of the policy. It will meet at least once every quarter and review progress, finalise implementation guidelines, standard operating procedures, model bylaws and reporting formats. The committee will also examine the classification of Urban Local Bodies under different circular economy frameworks, review detailed project reports and convergence of schemes, and assess proposals related to public-private partnerships, viability gap funding, extended producer responsibility and user charges. It will further monitor circular public procurement, digital reporting, job creation, livelihood integration and enterprise development, besides reviewing the performance of districts and ULBs. At the district level, Circular Economy Cells will be established to prepare district-specific project proposals, coordinate land identification and local clearances, and facilitate convergence between urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions. These cells will identify district-level material flows and circular economy clusters and coordinate waste streams related to tourism, horticulture, rural and urban sectors. Their responsibilities will also include monitoring source segregation, dry-waste aggregation and wet-waste processing, besides facilitating the participation of self-help groups, registration of workers and livelihood integration. The district cells will meet at least once every quarter and submit quarterly progress reports. At the grassroots level, ULB-level Circular Economy Committees will be responsible for implementing source segregation and collection systems, identifying bulk waste generators and ensuring the proper aggregation and channelisation of dry waste through authorised channels. The committees will also oversee wet-waste processing through decentralised or centralised models, implementation of user charges, maintenance of waste management and worker-related data, and promotion of circular procurement and local offtake. They will coordinate awareness and behaviour-change activities, address grievances related to service delivery and submit monthly reports to the Housing and Urban Development Department. The order further states that all departments and agencies will implement the policy within their existing statutory and administrative mandates. It clarifies that no expenditure will be incurred without the sanction of the competent authority and that all projects must comply with applicable laws, environmental standards, financial rules, procurement procedures and statutory clearance requirements. The constitution of the institutional mechanism will not, by itself, create any new post, financial liability or contractual obligation. The Housing and Urban Development Department has been authorised to issue further clarifications, guidelines and amendments required for operationalising the order and will also submit an annual implementation report to the government.
Winter in Kashmir is often reduced to snow-covered landscapes, tourist photographs and seasonal excitement. Yet the Valleys snowfields and mountain slopes offer far more than visual beauty. They can support a thriving culture of winter sports, create employment for young people and strengthen Kashmirs position as a serious destination for adventure tourism. What is missing is not potential, but sustained planning and professional management. Gulmarg has already demonstrated what Kashmir can offer. Its slopes attract skiers, snowboarders and visitors from across the country and beyond. But winter sports cannot remain confined to one celebrated destination. Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Tangmarg, Doodhpathri and several other areas possess conditions that could support skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow trekking and related activities. Developing these locations responsibly would distribute tourism benefits, create local opportunities and reduce pressure on a few overcrowded sites. The first requirement is infrastructure. Winter sports need properly maintained access roads, reliable transport, equipment rental centres, trained instructors, medical facilities, rescue teams and clear safety protocols. Visitors should not be left to depend on informal arrangements or untrained operators in hazardous terrain. A minor accident on a mountain can quickly become a serious emergency when communication, rescue and medical response are inadequate. Safety must be treated as the foundation of the sector. Weather advisories, avalanche monitoring, marked trails and regulated operating zones are essential. Every adventure activity must be governed by standards that protect both tourists and local residents. The administration cannot wait for accidents to expose gaps in preparation. Preventive systems, regular inspections and accountability should be in place before the season begins. Kashmirs youth should be placed at the centre of this vision. Winter sports academies can train local skiers, instructors, guides, equipment technicians and rescue personnel. Such training would create livelihoods that remain connected to the regions geography and culture. Schools and colleges should also be encouraged to introduce winter sports programmes, allowing talented young athletes to compete at national and international levels. The economic possibilities are considerable. A well-developed winter sports calendar can support hotels, transporters, restaurants, equipment manufacturers, photographers and small businesses. But commercial expansion must not come at the cost of fragile mountain ecosystems. Construction, traffic and waste management need strict regulation. Sustainable tourism must be the guiding principle, not an afterthought. Winter sports also offer Kashmir a positive narrative built around talent, discipline and opportunity. The Valley should not merely host visitors who come to admire snow. It should produce athletes, coaches and sporting events of its own. The administration, tourism bodies, sports organisations and local communities must work together on a long-term strategy. Kashmir has the snow, slopes and youthful energy. It now needs vision, investment and responsible governance to ensure that winter sports become a lasting public asset rather than a brief seasonal spectacle.
Ex-Supreme Court judge to mediate row between government & RIL consortium over K-G gas
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi referred the matter for mediation after attorney general R Venkataramani informed that the parties were unable to arrive at a viable solution.
AU Small Finance Bank hit by a likely breach of 'limited' data
The lender is investigating a potential breach of limited data pertaining to its vehicle-loan customers. The data was hosted on a third-party software platform operated by Salesforce.
United Spirits is facing subdued demand in its mass-market liquor portfolio as inflation squeezes lower-income consumers, while regulatory changes in Maharashtra and Karnataka further weigh on sales. The Diageo-controlled company is relying on premium brands for growth, even as higher input costs linked to the West Asia conflict and weaker monsoons add pressure.
SC asks poll panel to probe bulk Form 7 filings in UP
Shah lays out UP poll agenda: UCC & Hindutva
Durga Puja dhakis preserve Bengal's rich heritage
Watching mesmerised as the purohit at a friend's Durga Puja rhythmically waved the silver oil lamp with multiple wicks before the goddess, and then in succession, a silver camphor lamp, incense sticks, red cloth, conch shell, flowers and a silver-handled fly-whisk while incessantly ringing a bell with his other hand, I noticed that the dhak-drum beats changed subtly at every phase of the arati. For the first time I figured the dhaki (drummer) was doing a duet with the priest.A few days later, an old friend recounted that she was sitting in a puja pandal in the longish, quiet interregnum between the end of bhog (community lunch to partake of what was also offered to the Goddess) and the beginning of preparation for the evening arati, when the dhaki suddenly struck up a beat with his drum. The pandal was empty, with even the priest and helpers probably catching forty winks before the evening's prayers. So, who was this serenade for?Also Read: India lifted 496 million people out of poverty between 2011 and 2023, says World BankFor Her, of course, the drummer told her with a smile. I have respectfully reminded her that it is time to awaken. I have also drummed out the message that evening arati will soon commence. He then proceeded to tell her that dhakis have many different beats, each for a specific aspect of the puja. To uninitiated ears, they may sound like just any set of percussive tunes, but their 'bols' (sounds) are like mantras, perfectly complementing the priest's incantations.Like most, if not all, Bengalis, my friend and I love the heart-thumping sound of West Bengal's traditional large dhak drums. They not only joyfully herald the advent of the Goddess long before she can actually be seen arriving at her maternal home, they also devotedly accompany every ritual of Her worship for four days and dolefully sound her inevitable retreat: the long journey back to her husband Shiva in the Himalayas. They are her faithful minstrels.Also Read: India to conduct population census from January 25 to February 28, 2027; March 1 set as reference dateTherefore, the men (and now also women) whose strong hands and arms provide the rhythmic vocabulary through skilled use of two bamboo canes, are very crucial to Durga Puja celebrations. Yet very few of the thousands who flock to the pandals to admire and seek Her blessings pay much attention to the dhakis and what their drums are actually saying. Few note the change in beat and cadence. For many, they are just background music, a kind of white noise.Women dhakis, of late, have got a lot of publicity in many Indian cities, with many puja committees specifically seeking them out - often to enhance their inclusive credentials. Not many go further and ask those women (and men) the significance of the beats they play when, and why. My perceptive friend is an exception. And the answers she got were eye-openers. Their's is a labour of love, time they take out annually from their life as farmers to play for Her.The semiotic language they serenade Her with has been passed down generations, and even the youngest dhakis are hopefully conversant with it too. It is not enough for them to simply know all the rhythmic beats; they must also remember what to play when and why. Before the advent of modern telecommunications made so many traditional ways of sending messages over long distances redundant, drums were the equivalent of the town crier if not the telegraph and radio too.Every aspect of religio-cultural events like Durga Puja has relevance, even if most of us scarcely notice most of them. The semiotic language of the dhakis and drums are one such. Their profession is seeing a revival so younger people are taking it up, but many other puja-associated arts and crafts are down to their last practitioners. Those who appreciate and understand these facets of intangible heritage are even fewer. It's never too late to listen, ask and learn....
Suzlon Energy cuts operating margin guidance to 15%
Suzlon Energy reported a 1.3% year-on-year increase in consolidated net profit to Rs 394 crore for the September quarter of FY27. Net profit in the year-ago quarter stood at Rs 389 crore, excluding a deferred tax benefit of Rs 891 crore that had taken reported profit to Rs 1,279 crore.
Govt extends customs duty exemption on cotton imports till December 31
The two-month extension aims to improve cotton availability, ease input costs for textile and apparel manufacturers, and provide relief to small and medium enterprises
Mondelez International upbeat on India despite cost pressures
The maker of Cadbury chocolates and Oreo biscuits added about 130,000 outlets in India during the third quarter ended September, as it pushes deeper into the country's fragmented retail market. It sees considerable headroom for further distribution expansion, alongside opportunities to increase the number of products stocked by existing retailers.
Spooky vibes at White House as First Lady Melania & Trump greet trick-or-treaters on Halloween
Manipur SoO Pact faces uncertainty ahead of polls
In Manipur, ethnic violence has led to significant casualties and displacement since May 2023. The Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki militant groups has faced opposition by the Meitei and Naga communities. Several SoO cadres are accused of involvement in recent conflicts and violence. The future of the SoO agreement remains uncertain, raising concerns among local communities. Assembly elections will soon bring these issues to the forefront of political debate.
FTAs to open $85 trillion market; traders need to expand footprint: Goyal
With India's trade pacts set to provide preferential access to its goods and services in countries with a combined GDP of USD 85 trillion in the coming years, the industry should look beyond the huge domestic market and step out of its comfort zone to expand globally, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday. He said that before 2014, India had implemented free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries having an aggregate GDP of USD 10 trillion. In the last four and a half years, the government has entered into nine trade pacts which covered 38 developed countries, having a GDP of USD 60 trillion. India is now negotiating seven to eight more agreements, which will add another USD 15 trillion, where India will get preferential access for its goods and services, the commerce and industry minister said at the 4th Edition Festival of Ideas here. Together, all these trade agreements cover markets accounting for about 76 per cent of global GDP, or USD 85 trillion out of the world's total
36 Bangladeshis held for entering Assam without valid documents
Thirty-six Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended in Dhubri for allegedly entering India without valid documents. Authorities received a tip-off regarding a potential mass transit of infiltrators through the area. The arrests took place early in the morning at the Jogamaya ferry ghat of the Brahmaputra river. The individuals all came from Chapai Nawabganj in Rajshahi division of Bangladesh. Investigations are ongoing as police conduct document scrutiny and questioning.
UP CEO seeks explanation from Pilibhit poll officer over approval of erroneous forms
Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa is demanding answers regarding the validation of questionable voter registration forms. An investigation disclosed that 13,779 forms were wrongly included on the voter list, with 10,470 of these receiving improper approval. This situation has prompted scrutiny of both past and present district election officers, with clarifications anticipated from those overseeing the registration procedures.
Halloweens biggest treat? These 3 zodiac signs could find a reason to believe in the universe again
Threes zodiac signs are expected to get positive vibes from the universe. The festival may be spooky but it will turn to joy for them if they focus on the right things.
LIVE | Trump's war against fraud: Scott Bessent reveals massive scam crackdown in Minnesota
J&K Police busts terror financing module, arrests 10 associates
Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested ten individuals in Shopian district for their involvement in a terror financing network. The accused were connected to various online financial transactions suspected of funding terrorist activities. Investigations indicated these individuals were raising money from the public to support terrorists like Lashkar-e-Taiba. Additionally, the funds were allegedly used for logistical support, including providing smartphones for terrorist operations.
Foreign secretary Vikram Misri to prepare ground for Nepal PM's India trip
Foreign secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to visit Kathmandu to prepare for Balendra Shah's visit to India. Shah's visit will mark his first trip abroad as Prime Minister of Nepal, occurring in late November. Several India-funded projects are expected to be inaugurated, and new projects will be launched during this visit. Nepal is likely to request additional Indian investments in various sectors, including hydropower and hospitality.
Amazon steps up creator investments as it looks to convert social media influence into sales
Between January and September, creator content influenced 42 million customers on Amazon, of whom 28 million made a purchase. A total of 133 million products were purchased through creators during the period, said Nidhi Thakkar, head of social commerce for emerging marketplaces at Amazon. Influenced customers grew 50% year-on-year, while purchasing customers increased 92%. The figures were recorded before the Diwali shopping season.
ETs roundup of the wackiest whispers in corporate corridors
Sitharaman says NDA revived IDBI Bank after UPA-era bad loan crisis
In response to Rahul Gandhi's opposition to IDBI Bank's privatisation, Nirmala Sitharaman stressed the successful recovery of the bank thanks to the NDA government's strategies. She pointed to the previous UPA government's fiscal mismanagement, which caused notable losses. Sitharaman also discussed the reviewed valuation process for the stake sale, criticising Gandhi for his attempts to politicize banking matters and the undue stress placed on bank staff during earlier administrations.
Diwali celebrations can increase the risk of fires from diyas, candles, firecrackers and electrical faults. Here's how to financially protect yourself from such incidents.
Fiscal deficit in H1 rises to 42.1% of FY27 target on higher capex, subsidies
By September 2026, the Centre's fiscal deficit had escalated to 7.14 lakh crore, exceeding last year's figures. This increase is fueled by a 10.7% rise in total expenditure, largely a result of heightened capital spending and food subsidies, while petroleum subsidies sharply declined. Gross tax revenue, however, saw a modest growth of 6.1%, even with lower excise duty collections attributed to tax reforms.
A San Francisco startup is offering $20 an hour to people willing to walk robot dogs through city streets. The job requires no previous experience and includes paid training, but workers must be prepared to carry the 33-pound machines back if they overheat or stop working. The unusual hiring exercise is part of Dimensional's effort to train AI systems to control robots and navigate real-world environments independently.
India railway unions seek 69,000 minimum pay under 8th Pay Commission
In a bid for enhanced worker welfare, the National Federation of Indian Railwaymen has approached the 8th Central Pay Commission with key demands. They seek to establish a minimum salary of 69,000, which includes a fitment factor of 3.833. The federation requests an adjustment in the annual increment from 3% to 6% and proposes five promotional opportunities during an employee's tenure.
TRAI has proposed draft guidelines requiring telecom operators using AI to adopt board-approved policies, classify AI systems by risk and report critical incidents to the regulator. The framework also mandates AI governance committees, human oversight, impact assessments and inventories of AI systems, making telecom entities accountable for their AI-driven operations.
India extends cotton import duty exemption
The Centre has extended the customs duty exemption on cotton imports until December 31, 2026, from the earlier deadline of October 31, 2026, to augment cotton availability for India's textile sector.The extension is expected to help reduce input costs across the textile and apparel industry, providing relief to manufacturers and consumers while taking into account the interests of domestic farmers, the government said.The measure is also expected to have a positive impact on the domestic textile industry, particularly small and medium enterprises, by improving the availability of cotton in the market.The Finance Ministry amended its May 30, 2026, customs notification to extend the exemption by two months. The amendment replaces the October 31, 2026, deadline specified in the earlier notification with December 31, 2026.The amendment was issued under Section 25(1) of the Customs Act, 1962, read with Section 124 of the Finance Act, 2021.
Toronto CEO, family attacked at $2.1M mansion
Odisha eyes semiconductor push with five projects worth over $4 billion
The state aims to build a semiconductor and advanced electronics ecosystem, with projects spanning chip fabrication and 3D packaging, alongside investments in AI infrastructure
Sitharaman slams Cong on IDBI Bank divestment, cites UPA 'misuse'
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has strongly criticised the Congress party and the previous UPA government amidst the row over IDBI Bank's divestment, alleging they used banks and financial institutions as personal entities and pressured employees to extend loans bypassing prudent norms. She defended the current government's decision to sell a stake in IDBI Bank to Fairfax, stating it was revived through professionalism and recapitalisation.
IBBI tightens real estate insolvency rules to prioritise home delivery
India's insolvency regulator has implemented new rules to prioritize project completion and better homebuyer oversight. Independent assessments of construction progress and funding needs are now mandatory for real estate projects. Creditors with at least 66% voting share can recommend excluding projects from insolvency proceedings. Homebuyers will now have representation on monitoring committees to oversee implementation. These measures aim to improve transparency and protect the interests of homebuyers during insolvency.
Harry Potter is returning with a new HBO series based on J.K. Rowlings bestselling books. Titled Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone, the eight-episode first season will premiere in December. The series features Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, alongside John Lithgow, Nick Frost and other familiar actors. Here's everything to know about its release date, streaming platform, cast and Season 2.
French billionaire Xavier Niel gets CCI approval to acquire 16.2% stake in Vodafone
Xavier Niel's investment vehicle, Vega SAS, has obtained approval from the Competition Commission of India to purchase a 16.2 percent stake in Vodafone Group for approximately 4.4 billion pounds. Post-acquisition, Vega SAS will become Vodafone's primary shareholder, a pivotal step as Vodafone continues to concentrate on its core markets following earlier restructuring efforts. This decision also complies with India's fair competition regulations, promoting healthy market dynamics.
Tata Motors takes 89.42% stake in Iveco, gains control of Italian CV maker
Tata Motors has completed the acquisition of a controlling stake in Iveco Group, which now becomes an indirect subsidiary. The transaction involved purchasing shares for 14.4 each, resulting in a total of 238 million shares. This acquisition is expected to enhance Tata Motors' global presence and create a more diversified entity. Tata Sons chairman N. Chandrasekaran has been appointed as the chairperson of the Iveco board.
India's domestic air traffic fell 8.3% in September as demand remained under pressure: IATA
In September, India's domestic air traffic declined by 8.3% year-on-year, marking a significant drop. This decrease was the steepest observed in 2026 so far, according to IATA. The demand for air travel faced pressure due to rising fuel prices and weaker economic conditions. Capacity contracted by 7.9% during the same period, leading to a slight dip in Passenger Load Factor. Overall, domestic traffic fell by 2.
During festivals like Karwa Chauth and Diwali, indulgent desserts are a must, and mithai plays a crucial role. Mumbai nutritionist Vanshika Khurana introduces a delightful twist: a protein-rich milk cake bar. By blending toned milk, high-protein paneer, and a zero-calorie sweetener, this recipe provides a guilt-free way to enjoy festive flavours. Once cooked, simply slice the mixture for a delectable treat that won't derail your health goals.
Thomas Markle Sr. is under scrutiny in the Philippines due to alleged child sexual abuse material discovered in his residence. Meghan Markle has shared her profound distress regarding these allegations and has distanced herself from her father. Authorities received a letter in 2019 detailing these concerning allegations, which raised alarms about child safety. Following these revelations, Thomas Markle Jr.
Reliance posts record quarterly profit as O2C, Jio power Q2
Reliance Industries Ltd reported a record quarterly profit of Rs 29,550 crore for July-September, a 33.8 per cent increase year-on-year, primarily fuelled by a surge in global fuel margins for its oil-to-chemicals business and robust growth in its telecom arm, Jio, which recently completed India's largest IPO.
S Jaishankar attends G20 meet in US
K'taka CM asks Kannada groups to stay off IT cos
