Economy

Livestock product exports up 44% in April-August

Much of the growth in livestock product exports was driven by strong demand for Indian buffalo meat from Vietnam, Malaysia and other markets

Reforms improved Indias competitiveness, strengthened resilience: CIIs R Mukundan

Reforms in taxation and digital infrastructure have boosted India's economic competitiveness. GST and the JAM trinity integrated millions into the formal financial system. Government infrastructure investment has significantly lowered logistics costs across the nation. Manufacturing sectors like electronics and pharmaceuticals show substantial growth and increased exports. Future growth depends on private investment and deepening domestic value chains.

'No question of rethinking 0.4% UPI MDR above 2,000': Govt official

The government has said the MDR will apply within the merchant payment ecosystem and will not be charged to consumers

NSE IPO goes live: Key things investors need to know

In 1998, scientists sent 4 pregnant swordtail fish and 200 babies into space; near the end of the mission, the fish suddenly began swimming in continuous loops

In an unprecedented experiment in 1998, swordtail fish were launched into orbit on the space shuttle Endeavor to explore how life persists without gravity. They initially thrived, swimming well in their custom habitat. However, by the ninth day, they began to exhibit looping movements, a reaction caused by the absence of gravity. Once back on Earth, the fish experienced a brief phase of clumsiness but quickly regained their swimming abilities.

Before the 1960s, Yellowstones Morning Glory Pool was deep blue. Visitors threw in pennies, rocks and garbage, and its color changed

Yellowstone National Park is grappling with an escalating issue of litter left by visitors. This debris often contaminates the park's delicate hydrothermal areas, leading to ecological damage. In recent efforts, staff have collected over 20,100 pieces of trash and 5,600 rocks, discovering items like hats, coins, AirPods, and children's toys among the debris.

Quote of the day by Nick Jonas, 'I trained myself to not get my hopes up...' offers life advice on managing expectations, persistence, acceptance, work, productivity

Quote of the day by Nick Jonas is about much more than unreleased music. It is about the quiet education that comes from discovering how unpredictable success can be. Life frequently gives people moments that feel like breakthroughs, only for circumstances to change before those possibilities become reality. The answer is not to stop hoping, dreaming or creating.

Quote of the day by Stephen King: Life isn't a support system for art. It's the... Are we building a life around our dreams, or sacrificing our lives to achieve them? Life lessons from a motivational quote on self-doubt, creativity, relationships, and personal growth

Today's quote of the day by Stephen King reflects on a difficult truth: our ambitions should have a place in life, not take the place of life itself. His words speak to the quiet tension between work and relationships, achievement and contentment, dreams and the time we give to simply live. The quote invites us to examine what we sacrifice for success, where our sense of self comes from, and whether the life we are building still feels like our own.

In 2021, engineers floated a 74-metre platform off Scotland with 2 underwater turbines, and it's been making power since July

Off the coast of Scotland, the innovative Orbital O2 platform is revolutionizing energy generation with its ability to produce clean electricity. With two robust turbines designed to capture ocean currents, this floating tidal system offers a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution. Unlike wind or solar power, tidal energy proves to be a more consistent and dependable energy source.

Amazon Alexa+ launches in India at 2,000/month: Leadership on AI, privacy and whats next

Amazon has launched Alexa+ in India, adding generative AI, personalised conversations and task-performing capabilities to Alexa. Available under Early Access from September 16, it supports Hindi and Hinglish and can work across smart-home devices, Amazon services and partner platforms. Alexa+ will be free for Prime members after Early Access, while other users can access it through paid plans.

Finance Ministry rejects foreign influence claims over UPI MDR, says India's digital payments decisions are made independently

India's finance ministry rejected claims of foreign pressure influencing UPI transaction charges. A 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate will apply to UPI payments over Rs 2,000. This charge will not affect consumers and most small merchants remain exempt. The revenue will support payment ecosystem participants and infrastructure development. UPI policy decisions are made independently for an affordable digital payments ecosystem.

No foreign influence behind MDR on UPI payments above 2,000: FinMin

The finance ministry on Wednesday clarified that there was no foreign influence behind the decision to impose 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000. The clarification follows accusations by some Opposition parties, including the Congress, that the government succumbed to US pressure in taking the decision to impose the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR). Some claims suggest the change is due to foreign influence. This is false. India's UPI policy decisions are made independently, with the clear goal of building a self-sustaining, inclusive, and affordable digital payments ecosystem, the finance ministry said in a post on X. Since its launch in 2016, UPI has grown into the world's largest real-time interoperable payment system - entirely on India's own terms, it said. UPI processed 24.5 billion transactions in August 2026 alone. To keep this system self-sustainable, secure and innovative, a small fee on high-value merchant transactions helps fund better

WTO Report 2026: Is the world's trade rulebook breaking?

In 2015, Los Angeles dropped 96 million black balls into a drinking-water reservoir. 10 years later, the bizarre experiment solved two major problems

In 2015, Los Angeles covered its drinking-water reservoir with 96 million black plastic balls, creating one of the world's strangest-looking water projects. A decade later, the unusual experiment has become a notable part of the city's water-management efforts, with the spheres designed to address major challenges facing the reservoir.

Psychology says people who make origami when stressed may be giving their brain exactly what it needs

The psychology behind making origami is not necessarily about revealing a hidden personality trait. Instead, the activity may give people something concrete and controllable to focus on when they are trying to cope with emotions that feel far less tangible.

In 1984, a director found and saved the Rosebud sled from Citizen Kane on the RKO Pictures lot; 41 years later, it sold for $14.75 million

In a stunning auction in 2025, a prop sled from the iconic film Citizen Kane fetched an astonishing $14.75 million. The sled, unearthed by filmmaker Joe Dante after its decades-long obscurity, reflects a growing trend where nostalgia influences spending behaviors. Researchers assert that nostalgia can often overshadow financial restraint, leading to indulgent purchases. This sale highlights societys longing for meaningful connections through collectibles, reminiscent of the film's deeper themes.

Navya Naveli Nanda says nani Jaya Bachchan had hair down to her ankles in her youth. Guddi star reveals 5,000-year-old beauty regimen: We had no shampoo

In an interview, Amitabh and Jaya Bachchans granddaughter Navya Naveli Nanda had a chat with her grandmother and mum, Shweta Bachchan Nanda, on the beauty trends they followed when they were young. The Guddi star revealed that when she was young, she had no shampoo yet had thick, long hair.

A rooftop sniper, missing security measures and a grieving family: Could Charlie Kirks assassination have been prevented? Family raises new questions

Charlie Kirk's family has filed a wrongful death notice against Utah Valley University officials. They allege inadequate security measures contributed to his fatal shooting in September 2025. The family claims insufficient risk assessment and rooftop surveillance were critical failures. This notice precedes a potential lawsuit over the assassination of the conservative activist. The criminal case against the accused shooter is proceeding separately toward trial.

Japans sleep contest offers $14,000 prize: Who can enter, how to apply, October 5 date and rules

Japan is organising a sleeping competition on October 5, 2026, and the winner will receive Rs 13 lakh prize money. During the 90-minute power-napping session, organisers will monitor sleep depth, overall quality, stability, and how long it takes participants to drift off. Organisers have also stated that there would be unexpected disturbances during the sleeping competition to check whether contestants can maintain their sleep or not.

Weather Tomorrow September 17: IMD predicts rain, thunderstorms and heavy showers across several states; check forecast for Delhi, Odisha, Bihar and more

Weather Tomorrow: The Meteorological Department has issued a new weather advisory for various regions of India. On Thursday, September 17, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in areas such as Delhi-NCR, Bihar, and Odisha, which may also experience lightning strikes. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan could receive light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms. Scattered showers and storms are predicted for Haryana and West Bengal as well.

In the 1970s, Arnold Schwarzenegger made his first millions in real estate, before Hollywood turned him into an action star

In the 1970s, Arnold Schwarzenegger made his first millions in real estate, before Hollywood turned him into an action star. The actor and former California governor said real estate, rather than bodybuilding or movies, helped him become a millionaire. He recalled buying a six-unit apartment building for $240,000, putting $27,500 down and selling it two years later for $400,000. Today, investors have other ways to enter real estate.

In the 1970s, Arnold Schwarzenegger made his first millions in real estate, before Hollywood turned him into an action star

In the 1970s, Arnold Schwarzenegger made his first millions in real estate, before Hollywood turned him into an action star. The actor and former California governor said real estate, rather than bodybuilding or movies, helped him become a millionaire. He recalled buying a six-unit apartment building for $240,000, putting $27,500 down and selling it two years later for $400,000. Today, investors have other ways to enter real estate.

CBIC plans wider AI use, unified portal to ease customs compliance costs

CBIC Chairman Vivek Chaturvedi says AI, machine learning and real-time analytics can lower transaction costs and help create a near-touchless customs system for businesses

Aditya Birla Group entity seeks GIFT City nod to enter aircraft leasing

The proposed venture comes as GIFT Citys aircraft-leasing ecosystem expands, with 37 entities operating and 412 aviation assets as of June 2026

GST Council to take up process reforms at October 7 meeting: FM Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman says the GST Council will discuss e-invoicing, input tax credit rules and other process reforms during its October 7 meeting

Small exporters get compliance relief as govt removes RCMC requirement for shipments up to Rs 3 lakh

The government has removed the requirement of Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) or Certificate of Registration for export consignments with a Free-on-Board (FOB) value of up to Rs 3 lakh, in a move aimed at reducing compliance hurdles for MSMEs, first-time exporters and small businesses, according to a release by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Cabinet raises EPFO wage ceiling to Rs 25,000; 51 lakh employees to benefit

The revision follows a 12-year gap and reflects sustained wage growth, rising incomes and continued expansion of formal employment, the government said

Heat stress cost India $9 per tonne of CO2 in lost labour productivity in 2025

India experienced significant labour productivity losses due to heat stress in 2025. A study revealed that each tonne of carbon dioxide emitted cost India nine dollars. Globally, emissions caused forty-one dollars in lost labour productivity per tonne. Outdoor workers face the greatest exposure to these dangerous heat conditions. Employers and policymakers must mitigate these damages and protect workers.

Agentic Commerce Arrives: ISG's Bet on Compliance by Design

UPI MDR: Retailers, clothing manufacturers flag impact of 0.4% charge on MSMEs

Industry bodies said the additional transaction cost could put pressure on retailers already operating on thin margins during the festive sales period.

Why In-Solutions Global Believes Trust and Compliance Will Define the Agentic Commerce Era

AI-driven agentic commerce is set to revolutionize payment processes, emphasizing trust and compliance. As consumers gain enhanced autonomy, they will bear greater responsibility in this evolving landscape. In-Solutions Global highlights the importance of establishing sturdy guardrails for safety. With its strategic initiatives, the company aims to spearhead this significant change, originating from India and impacting the global market.

Open is the word: Juspays Ishan Sharma on population-scale payments, agentic payments and building from India for the world

In an exclusive interview with The Economic Times at the Global Fintech Fest 2026, Juspays Ishan Sharma reflected on 12 years of solving payments at population scale, the rise of agentic commerce and why Indian fintechs must aim for developed markets.

Kerala agri university to transfer chocolate-making technology to farmer group

The technology transfer was undertaken to enhance the value of cocoa farmers produce and promote cocoa-based entrepreneurial activities

EPF wage ceiling hiked to Rs 25,000: How much employees gain and what it costs the government

In a significant move, the government has lifted the provident fund wage ceiling to Rs 25,000 monthly, bringing over 51 lakh new employees into the fold of social security. This adjustment is projected to cost the Centre Rs 11,339 crore annually. As a result, more individuals will benefit from mandatory coverage, but employers should prepare for an increase in obligatory contributions once the changes take effect.

Delhi traders plan cash payments push to avoid fee on UPI payments

Traders will now encourage cash payments to avoid new UPI transaction fees. A 0.4 percent charge applies to UPI transactions exceeding two thousand rupees. This new fee impacts merchants operating on already tight profit margins. Small merchants earning under one lakh rupees monthly remain exempt from this charge. The government aims to balance digital payment adoption with merchant costs.

SFO Technologies unveil Primary Power Distribution System for first indigenous aircraft

The PPDS will serve as the electrical nerve centre for the 19-seater SARAS MKII aircraft

Can visiting India bring your overseas salary under the tax net? What NRIs should know

An NRI in Singapore for 12 years visited India to manage inherited assets after their mother's death. They anticipate a three-month stay and are questioning whether it will make their Singapore salary taxable in India. 

PM has decided to prostrate before Trump: LoP

EPFO wage ceiling raised to Rs 25000 per month; over 10 million formal sector workers to benefit

The enhanced wage ceiling, approved by the Cabinet on Wednesday, will put additional financial burden on employees and the government while the employees may see a dip in take home salary. As per government estimates, the average additional outgo for employers will be Rs 600 per worker per month under the enhanced wage ceiling, which comes into effect from Thursday. The annual government outgo is estimated at about Rs 11,339 crore.

Markets Rebound: Sensex Up 333 Pts, Nifty Above 23,200

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty rebounded on Wednesday, driven by value buying in banking stocks and select heavyweight counters, with the Sensex climbing 332.63 points and the Nifty ending above 23,200.

World Bank names Michael Kremer chief economist

Sudan gold mine collapse kills at least 67

Traders To Promote Cash Payments After New UPI Fee

The central government has introduced a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, prompting traders' associations to advocate for cash payments to avoid additional costs on digital payments. This move ends the zero-Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) regime, with traders expressing concerns about operating on tight margins and the potential for increased charges.

GST on UPI MDR for Transactions Above Rs 2,000: What Merchants Need to Know

Merchants will be subject to an 18 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000, but can mitigate this burden by claiming input tax credit (ITC), according to tax experts.

Actress Ambika blasts Trisha on appearance with Vijay at Ajith Kumars Silverstone race: If you value the friendship, you should

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and former actor Vijay was among those who met actor and racing enthusiast Ajith Kumar at Silverstone in the UK on Saturday, ahead of Ajiths Michelin Le Mans Cup event. In a few videos that have gone viral, the actor is seen attending the occasion with his Leo and Ghilli co-star Trisha. As always, this appearance caused fans to speculate if the two, who have been linked romantically to each other for many years, despite not issuing a statement, were 'soft launching' the romance.

UPI MDR above Rs 2,000 to attract 18% GST, merchants can claim input tax credit

UPI payments to merchants above two thousand rupees will attract a zero point four percent merchant discount rate. Merchants will pay eighteen percent GST on these charges, which is effective October 15th. Registered merchants can claim input tax credit on the GST paid on these fees. This tax structure aims to generate significant GST revenue for the government annually.

Word of the Day: Impasse meaning, origin, story and how to use it

Word of the Day: Impasse explains the meaning, origin and usage of the word, which describes a deadlock or situation where progress becomes impossible. Derived from French and associated with the idea of a dead end, impasse is commonly used for stalled negotiations, disagreements and discussions in which neither side can find a way forward.

Juniper Hotels plans Rs 248 crore acquisition of 287-key Novotel Imagicaa

Juniper Hotels plans to acquire Novotel Imagicaa for Rs 248 crore. This acquisition advances the company's long-term portfolio building objective. The established hotel is expected to generate stable cash flows immediately. Juniper sees opportunities to add banqueting capacity and rebrand the property. The transaction completion depends on definitive agreements and regulatory approvals.

His kerosene stove pump broke and he went hungry, then this UP mechanic invented a pumpless stove

Uttar Pradesh mechanic Sameerul Hasan Liyaqati, popularly known as Lalla Mistri, developed a pumpless kerosene stove after a broken air pump once left him without food. His design uses gravity and fuel heating to generate pressure without manual pumping. Tested in 2002, the Rs 300 stove later received Rs 37,250 in prototype development support.

'They laughed us out of the room': In 2000, Netflix founders wanted to sell the company to Blockbuster for $50 million. Today, it is worth hundreds of billions of dollars

In the year 2000, Blockbuster famously spurned a $50 million deal from Netflix, a fledgling company struggling for survival. Fast forward to today, Netflix has evolved into a colossal forces in the entertainment industry, while Blockbuster has nearly faded from the video rental landscape. This tale epitomizes the dangers of resisting technological evolution and serves as a poignant reminder of tremendous business opportunities lost.

UK inflation rises to 5-month high, further pressuring Bank of England to raise rates this year

United Kingdom inflation reached a five-month peak in August, driven by fuel prices. This increase moves inflation further from the Bank of England's target. However, interest rates are expected to remain unchanged at this meeting. Policymakers await data on wage growth and the labor market. Higher rates are still possible later this year as inflation pressures persist.

New GST Rules For UPI Payments: Merchant Discount Rate Explained

Tax experts clarify that merchants will pay 18% GST on Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. However, registered merchants can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC), mitigating the tax burden. This move is expected to generate significant GST revenue for the exchequer while funding payment infrastructure.

With Bullet train nearing track tests, Gujarat stations emerge as heritage-driven multimodal hubs

Govt tells cab aggregators to stop advance tipping before rides, calls practice misleading and unfair

Due to concerns over misleading practices, the government has mandated that cab aggregators remove the option for advance tipping. Authorities have deemed this tactic an unfair trade practice, resulting in Rapido being fined ten lakh rupees. As investigations into Uber and Ola persist, its established that tipping must remain at the discretion of consumers after their journey.

Indian envoy meets Nepal's foreign minister, discusses bilateral ties

India's outgoing Ambassador Naveen Srivastava met Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal. He conveyed appreciation for strengthening multifaceted bilateral ties between the two nations. The diplomat recalled significant progress in energy and infrastructure cooperation. Nepal's minister thanked India for disaster relief assistance after flash floods. Both expressed confidence in continued flourishing of Nepal-India relations.

Quote of the day by Irvin D. Yalom: People who feel empty never heal by merging with another incomplete person - Existential psychiatrist on why emotional healing starts from within

Quote of the day by Irvin D. Yalom: Irvin D. Yaloms quote emphasizes that attempting to heal our internal void by connecting with someone equally flawed leads to codependency instead of a true bond. Relying on another to remedy our insecurities results in superficial relationships. True personal development necessitates addressing our psychological scars solo. In today's dating culture, the misconception that someone can finalize our identity prevails. Fostering self-healing paves the way for deeper, more satisfying relationships.

Mirai Aerospace, GreenValley Ink Deal To Strengthen India's Geospatial Base

GIS intelligence solutions provider Mirai Aerospace Systems and Software Solutions has signed an MoU with US-based GreenValley International Inc to strengthen India's geospatial and LiDAR remote sensing manufacturing base. The collaboration focuses on local assembly, manufacturing, technical support, and the development of AI-driven LiDAR applications, aiming to meet India's growing demand across various sectors.

Union Cabinet raises EPFO wage ceiling to Rs 25,000

The Union Cabinet has approved an increase in the mandatory wage ceiling for Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) coverage from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month. This move, the first revision in 12 years, is set to extend social security benefits to over 51 lakh additional employees and reflects sustained wage growth and formal employment expansion.

Asian Games 2026: Philippines tennis body seeks WTA exemption as Eala skips China Open for Asian Games

In an effort to enable Alexandra Eala to participate in the Asian Games, the Philippines Tennis Association is seeking a WTA exemption. The Asian Games coincide with the mandatory China Open, posing a risk of penalties for missing it. Nevertheless, Eala has decided to compete in Nagoya for her country, showcasing her dedication regardless of the outcome.

Union Cabinet approves raising EPFO wage ceiling to 25,000 per month

In a press release, the Government said that this decision is expected to bring more than 51 lakh additional employees within the ambit of mandatory EPFO coverage

UPI Fees, GDP Methodology Draw Opposition Fire

Opposition MPs have voiced strong criticism against the government's new fee on UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants, calling it anti-people and expressing widespread outrage. The issue was raised in a Parliamentary Standing Committee meeting, where concerns were also flagged regarding the methodology of GDP growth calculation and the government's stance on Virtual Digital Assets.

BCCI decided to bring IPL 2027 auction back to India: Report

IPL 2027 auction: BCCI will hold the IPL 2027 mini auction in India, ending a three year run of overseas venues that included Dubai, Jeddah and Abu Dhabi, according to Cricbuzz. The decision, taken at a Governing Council meeting on September 15, follows franchise concerns over overseas logistics.

Tier-2 cities overtake metros in land deals for first time, signalling real estate shift

Tier-2 cities now lead India's land transactions, a significant shift from previous years. This trend signals emerging real estate supply outside major metropolitan areas. Developers are exploring satellite towns for larger land parcels and integrated projects. Improved infrastructure and economic activity are driving this growth in these emerging urban centers. This evolving landscape promises substantial future development opportunities across India.

Pakistan extends ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace by another month

Pakistan's airports authority has extended the airspace ban for Indian aircraft. This restriction will now remain in effect until October 24. The ban applies to all Indian registered aircraft and airlines. This measure follows previous airspace restrictions imposed by both nations. The extension impacts flights within Pakistan's Karachi and Lahore flight information regions.

From UPI to cash? Retailers warn new MDR could hit small merchants ahead of festive season

Retailers Association of India warns new UPI fees could reverse digital payment gains. Small merchants may shift transactions back to cash, impacting government formalization efforts. The association argues UPI debit transactions should not incur merchant discount rates. They propose the government should underwrite UPI network costs instead. RAI will seek a graded MDR structure and incentives for small retailers.

Retailers Express Concern Over New UPI MDR Charges

The Retailers Association of India (RAI) has voiced concerns that the government's new 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 could reverse the progress of digital payment adoption among small retailers. This fee, effective October 15, places the burden on merchants operating on thin margins, potentially pushing them back to cash transactions and undermining the government's formalisation agenda, especially ahead of the festive season.

India clears 642-car import quota from UK under India-UK trade agreement

India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade approved seven companies to import 642 cars. These imports will occur under the India-UK free trade agreement's tariff rate quota provisions. The government had sought applications for a quota of approximately 5,000 vehicles for the year 2026. This approval marks the first allocation under the 2026 quota following recent applications. The agreement allows concessional customs duty on vehicle imports from Britain.

UPI MDR debate intensifies: What MobiKwiks Upasana Taku, BharatPes Ashneer Grover and PhonePes Sameer Nigam said

The debate over UPI transaction fees reignites as the government announces merchant charges on transactions over 2,000. Here's what some industry leaders said about the move.

Amazon launches Alexa+ in India with generative AI, Hinglish and smarter voice controls

Amazon has launched its generative AI-powered Alexa+ assistant in India. This new version offers more conversational voice interactions and personalized responses. Alexa+ understands natural conversation and can perform various everyday tasks for users. It is designed to recognize Indian languages and cultural references effectively. The service is currently available for eligible customers under an early access program.

India's Cement Industry Faces Oversupply Risk, Pricing Pressure

India's cement industry is on the brink of an oversupply situation as aggressive capacity expansion by major players is set to outpace demand growth over the next two financial years, potentially leading to pricing pressures and moderated utilisation rates.

BIS raises gold hallmarking fee to 75 from 45 ahead of festive season

The Bureau of Indian Standards has revised hallmarking charges for gold and silver articles, raising the fee for gold to Rs 75 from Rs 45, while retaining the charge for silver at Rs 35, with immediate effect ahead of the festive season. The increase has been notified through the BIS (Hallmarking) Amendment Regulations, 2026, dated September 14, 2026. Under the amended Schedule IV, jewellers are required to pay a hallmarking fee of Rs 75 per article, subject to a minimum charge of Rs 200 per consignment, while for silver articles, the fee payable by jewellers to recognised Assaying and Hallmarking Centres (AHCs) is fixed at Rs 35 per article, with a minimum of Rs 150 per consignment. BIS hallmarking verifies the purity of a precious metal used in jewellery and certifies the article under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), containing the three key markings: its logo, Karat or millesimal fineness, and a six-digit alphanumeric code known as the Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID)

Not naan or roti: London chef prepares Gujarats famous methi thepla. Indian mums dream son, says internet

In a delightful online reveal, London chef Jake Dryan showcased his authentic thepla recipe, an exquisite Gujarati flatbread celebrated for its soft texture and distinctive flavor. The culinary community responded with enthusiasm, showering praise on his skill and requesting additional Indian recipes. Thepla's versatility makes it a cherished dish, often paired with a variety of accompaniments that elevate any meal experience.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu reveals South Indian snacks she gorged on during pregnancy cravings. Dr Pal Manickam, gut health expert, says one of them is low-calorie and can cure your gut

Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently admitted that, like all expecting women, she too had experienced intense food cravings during her pregnancy. She said that she craved idlis at breakfast, often relished curd rice for lunch, and enjoyed dosas for dinner. Many of these popular South Indian dishes are not just delicious but also have health benefits.

Air India partners with flydubai to expand global connectivity

Air India has signed a new interline partnership with flydubai, opening connections to more destinations through Dubai while giving flydubai passengers access to Indian cities and Air Indias wider international network. Alongside a new Uzbekistan Airways tie-up, flydubai says the agreements add access to over 80 destinations.

Why do people keep cardamom in their pocket before stepping out? The surprising reason that has health benefits

Cardamom, or elaichi, is traditionally associated with positivity, freshness and prosperity, with some people carrying a pod in their pocket before stepping out. Beyond these beliefs, cardamom can serve as a natural mouth freshener after meals. Its aromatic oils provide a sweet, refreshing flavour that can help mask lingering food odours. Research has also explored its potential antimicrobial properties, although it cannot replace regular brushing, flossing or dental care.

Your FD and debt fund may face the same tax, heres what should decide where you invest

Debt funds and FDs may face the same slab-rate taxation, but they differ significantly in return certainty, liquidity and market risk. FundsIndia CEO Rishabh Garg explains when investors should favour the certainty of FDs and when short-duration or liquid debt funds may fit better.

Keralam to be transformed from remittance economy to investment economy, says CM V.D. Satheesan

CM inaugurates three-day Reimagining Keralam roundtable conference organised by Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation on the States flagship development projects

Sitharaman urges ITRAF to make tax research more visible in policy process

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday urged the International Tax Research and Analysis Foundation (ITRAF) to make its independent tax policy research more visible and contribute directly to policymaking and public discourse. Addressing the Eighth International Tax Conference on 'New Age Taxation' organised by ITRAF here, Sitharaman said India had professionals and experts of the highest calibre in taxation but needed stronger institutional platforms to bring their expertise together and contribute to policy choices. You have so far contributed quietly, and I would now urge you to contribute visibly, because I understand that the commentary you produce is of such high quality and it reaches the profession, but it should also reach the policy processes, and it should reach the public at large, she said. Sitharaman said ITRAF had brought together chief financial officers and tax heads of major technology companies, senior advocates, partners of leading professional

New UPI charges: what changes for your QR payments, SIPs and mutual fund investments

While the new MDR introduces another cost for UPI investments, a mutual fund investor will not directly pay the fee or see it deducted from the investment amount.

Quote of the day by Franz Kafka: In your struggle against the rest of the world, I advise you to side with... An inspirational lesson by the Absurdist fiction novelist on why not every battle needs to be fought

Franz Kafkas famous quote, In your struggle against the rest of the world, I advise you to side with the rest of the world, offers a thought-provoking lesson on acceptance and perspective. Widely attributed to the German-language Jewish Czech writer, the quote suggests that not every struggle needs resistance. Kafkas works often explored alienation, helplessness and surreal situations, while the term Kafkaesque remains associated with such complex, disorienting experiences.

The World Economy Is Becoming Wary of the U.S.

America

Gold jewellery hallmarking fee hiked 67%: GJC seeks BIS review, flags higher cost for lightweight ornaments

The Bureau of Indian Standards has raised mandatory jewellery hallmarking charges from 45 to 75 per article, prompting the Gem & Jewellery Council to seek a review. GJC said the flat fee could disproportionately raise compliance costs for lightweight, lower-value jewellery and urged stronger enforcement against unauthorised hallmarking operations.

SC declines to interfere with Delhi HC order in NSE co-location case

The Supreme Court has refused to quash proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act against former NSE MD and CEO Chitra Ramkrishna, stating that the trial court will determine whether she can be considered a 'public servant' under the Act.

India's Data Centre development pipeline through 2030 reaches 3,860 MW

India's data centre pipeline is projected to reach 3,860 MW by 2030. This expansion requires nearly $29.9 billion in development capital for the country. APAC data centre capacity will grow 2.7 times by 2030. Mumbai leads with 890 MW operational capacity and significant upcoming supply. Other markets like Hyderabad and Chennai are also seeing substantial development.

Delhi retains top position in India's Electric Mobility Index 2025 followed by Maharashtra and Karnataka

As per the index, released by NITI Aayog on Wednesday, Delhi improved its score from 77 to 84, followed by Maharashtra, which increased its score from 68 to 78 while maintaining second place. Karnataka emerged as the third-ranked top performer, moving up one position with a score of 73, overtaking Chandigarh, which slipped to fourth despite an increase in score from 65 to 71. Tamil Nadu, by contrast, slipped one place to sixth despite improving its score from 59 to 61, as fast-rising Goa moved ahead of it, it said.

Took me completely by surprise: Widows Bay star Matthew Rhys reacts to second Emmy win for The Beast in Me

Matthew Rhys made history at the Emmys with his outstanding lead performances, snagging wins for both 'Widow's Bay' and 'The Beast in Me' in a remarkable single night. Initially expecting to win for 'Widow's Bay,' he was pleasantly surprised by his triumph with 'The Beast in Me.' Rhys's success came amidst fierce competition, showcasing the high regard for both series among critics and audiences alike.

Gold hallmarking fee hiked to 75 from 45: What it means for jewellery buyers ahead of festive season

BIS has raised the hallmarking fee for gold jewellery to 75 per article from 45, while keeping the silver fee unchanged at 35, effective 14 September 2026. The increase comes ahead of the festive season, but it does not automatically mean buyers will pay 30 more for every gold jewellery article.

Gold rate today: 24k vs 22k vs 20k prices

India's gender gap refuses to narrow on global scale

Govt likely to extend key export incentive programme for five years

The commerce ministry sought 23,000 crore ($2.40 billion) from the finance ministry under the programme for 2026/27