33 C 
New railway pension rules provide family and disability benefits to eligible NPS-covered employees in specified cases. Depending on the circumstances, families can receive 60% or 100% of the employees pay as pension, while disability cases may qualify for additional benefits.
India domestic air passenger traffic declines marginally in Jan-Aug 2026 (YoY): DGCA
India's domestic air passenger traffic declined marginally by 0.18 per cent year-on-year during January-August 2026, as per the data shared by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Indias smartphone business may have lost an old festive-season weapon
India's smartphone market faces challenges this festive season as rising memory costs lead to higher device prices. Major brands are already increasing prices across various models due to component cost pressures. This situation is expected to drive more consumers towards financing options to afford new smartphones. Retailers are preparing by offering exchange offers and banking partnerships to enhance sales.
Banks to remain open on Sunday, September 27? Finance ministry issues key update to assist customers
The Finance Ministry has announced that all Public Sector Banks and Regional Rural Banks will operate normally on September 27. This decision follows the United Forum of Bank Unions' proposal for a three-day nationwide bank strike. The government is focused on ensuring the banking needs of citizens are met without disruption. Customers can access banking services uninterrupted during this period for their convenience.
ADB raises India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7% on strong Q1 growth
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Wednesday raised its forecast for India's economic growth in the current fiscal to 7 per cent, up from 6.6 per cent projected in July, citing stronger-than-expected economic performance in the first quarter despite supply-side disruptions caused by West Asia crisis. In its Asian Development Outlook (ADO) September 2026, the multilateral lender said, The revision reflects India's stronger-than-expected economic performance, with GDP expanding by 7.8 per cent year-on-year in the first quarter of FY2026 (2026-27), supported by robust investment demand, resilient consumption, and solid growth in manufacturing and service sectors. The economy has also benefited from lower-than-expected supply disruptions, sustained capital inflows, and limited pass-through of higher input cost to consumer prices, which helped cushion the impact of the conflict in the Middle East, the report said. The ADB's latest projection marks an upward revision of 0.4 percentage
Experts urge policy makers to recognise senior living as a specialized asset class
India's senior living population is increasing, necessitating a shift towards integrated living solutions with supportive services. The rise of chronic illnesses among seniors emphasizes the need for an ecosystem beyond housing. Policymakers are urged to recognize senior living as a specialized asset class for better planning and implementation. Developers are encouraged to design communities that prioritize resident experience and healthcare access.
Synergy Marine Group, Cochin Shipyard to pursue shipbuilding, repair projects
The MoU provides a framework to combine CSLs industrial capacity with Synergys experience in owners representation, engineering, project management across shipbuilding and ship repair.
ADB raises India's GDP growth forecast to 7% on stronger-than-expected Q1 growth
Indias economy has also benefited from lower-than-expected supply disruptions, sustained capital inflows, and limited pass-through of higher input cost to consumer prices, ADB says
Hyundai Motor India opens booking for Bayon at Rs 11,000; check how to book, specifications & more
Hyundai Motor India Limited has announced the opening of bookings for the Hyundai Bayon, which features advanced technology. The Bayon includes an in-built generative AI voice assistant and is based on the Global K Enhanced Platform. It is specifically designed for Indian customers seeking intelligence, comfort, and style in their vehicles. Interested customers can book the SUV online or at any authorized dealership with an initial payment.
IMF says Sri Lanka economy grows 4.2% despite oil shock and global risks
IMF says Sri Lanka economy grows 4.2% despite oil shock and global risks
Sony Vizha to launch Tamil GEC on October 19 with Celebrity MasterChef Tamil, Tamil Idol
Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) will launch it s Tamil general entertainment channel, Sony Vizha, on October 19 at 8pm. The launch would mark the company's entry into Tamil entertainment. The channel aims to celebrate Tamil Nadu's contemporary culture, tradition and aspirations by shocasing programs rooted in local identity. Sony Vizha will launch two flagship properties -- Celebrity MasterChef Tamil and Tamil Idol -- adapting international entertainment formats for Tamil viewers.
Your investments may be spread across banks, mutual funds, demat accounts, insurance policies and multiple apps, making them difficult for your family to trace after your death. Experts suggest maintaining a consolidated asset inventory, keeping nominations updated and having a will to help heirs.
The industry bodies said the correction reflected market dynamics as well as continued government efforts.
India economic activityclimbs in September, shows flash survey
The services PMI increased to 55.8 from 54.1 in August, and the manufacturing PMI rose to 55.7 from 52.8
Brothers OTT release: Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson's Brothers is streaming on Apple TV. The drama will portray the actors as themselves, but in a ficitional story, where after a wedding falls apart, the duo may discover a family secret that may create chaos in their decades old friendship. Fans are already excited to see the duo team up for the eight-episode drama, with its season finale on November 4. You can also watch this for free in India, but there's a twist.
Katrina Kaif was subjected to severe trolling for gaining weight after she welcomed her first child with husband, actor Vicky Kaushal. Taking to Instagram, celebrity dietician Ryan Fernando explained why new mothers gaining weight is not a scandal but biological, and they should never be targeted for such weight gain but instead receive our support. He also pointed out the pitfalls of such body shaming; it affects not just one specific celebrity, but also the mental wellbeing of new mothers.
India, Canada & Mexico's $8 trillion trade math looks for cover amid Trump tariff bullet
India is accelerating trade talks with Canada and Mexico as the three countries seek to diversify markets amid disruptions from US tariff policies. India and Canada will hold a fifth round of negotiations from October 5, with a deal potentially being signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modis expected Canada visit in December.
8th Pay Commission: Why pensioners want 15-year commutation period cut to 11 years
8th Pay Commission: Bharat Pensioners' Samaj demands that the pension commutation restoration period be reduced from 15 to 11 years, citing an outdated 2006 actuarial table, following a Himachal Pradesh HC ruling calling for a fresh review of rates and life expectancy data.
Domestic air passenger traffic falls 6.34% to 121.26 lakh in August: DGCA
All Indian airlines together carry a total of 129.47 lakh passengers in August 2025
In the wake of Dolly Parton's passing, legal battles have sparked concerning her estate and the actions of her security chief, Bryan Seaver. Following her death, Seaver is alleged to have made threats against those managing her estate, leading to former manager Danny Nozell seeking a restraining order against him. Seaver claims his communications were misinterpreted.
Army jawan arrested for helping 2 Bangladeshi nationals enter India illegally through Bengal border
In a dramatic turn of events, Army jawan Gautam Adhikari has been arrested for facilitating the illegal entry of two Bangladeshi nationals, Joy and Baishakhi Barui, at the Bitahri-Hakimpir border. Caught by the vigilant Border Security Force personnel, the suspects are now under investigation to uncover their motives for entering India. All three individuals have been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provide financial support to eligible individuals. SSI is designed for those with limited income, while SSDI is based on work history. The maximum monthly payments for SSI in 2026 are $994 for individuals and $1,491 for couples. Recipients of SSI typically qualify for Medicaid, while SSDI beneficiaries become eligible for Medicare after 24 months.
Asian Games: Jay Meena wins India's maiden soft tennis medal with men's singles bronze
Jay Meena made history by winning India's first bronze medal in soft tennis at the Asian Games. He reached the semi-finals after defeating Sherwin Nuguit from the Philippines in the quarter-finals. Meena's journey ended with a loss to Takuya Kurosaka of Japan in the semi-finals. His victory contributed to India's overall medal tally, which now stands at ten.
Air India staff suspended after passengers bypass immigration at Delhi airport
Air India has suspended staff after three Italian passengers bypassed immigration at Delhi airport while connecting from Amritsar to Munich earlier this month. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said stronger checks have now been introduced after the passengers were wrongly directed to the international transfer area instead of completing immigration formalities.
Montessori, Waldorf, or Reggio Emilia? Why specialized preschools cost up to 4 lakh a year
Indias premium preschools are selling specialized learning methods at a steep markup. What are parents actually paying forand can the spending be sustained through a childs education?
India flash PMI rises to 56.5 in September as output, orders recover
India's private sector activity rose to a three-month high in September as manufacturing and services output improved, while new orders and hiring also gained momentum
Mumbai High Court rejects Adani plea that duty-free shops are beyond Indias domestic laws
Case seen as setting precedent for Indias duty-free sector
Heavy rain for Odisha, Coastal AP, Chhattisgarh, Telangana as storm heads to Kalingapatnam
Track of the deep depression would take it likely from Visakhapatnam northwards to interior of south Odisha and onward to Jharkhand
India business activity rebounds in September to 3-month high, PMI shows
India experienced accelerated business growth in September due to increased demand in manufacturing and services sectors. The HSBC flash India Composite Purchasing Managers' Index rose significantly from August, indicating expansion. However, export growth slowed, impacting overall economic performance negatively. Hiring in the services sector also declined, limiting job growth prospects. Input-cost inflation eased, providing some relief to businesses in this competitive environment.
Dr Priyam Bordoloi shared a few subtle signs that families may overlook as early signs of dementia. These include suddenly struggling with money, getting confused on familiar roads, repeatedly asking the same question and noticeable personality changes in a person. The doctor noted that occasional mistakes or forgetfulness can be normal, but a new, repeated decline in abilities a person previously handled well, especially when it affects daily life, deserves a closer look and proper assessment.
Land partition based on taluka surveyor report valid
Stock Markets on Sep 23: Sensex, Nifty Rebound on Easing Crude Prices
Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty saw a rebound in early trade, driven by a moderation in crude oil prices, despite persistent selling by Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) and mixed global market cues.
Crude oil falls below $100: Sensex, Nifty end higher as easing oil prices support Indian equities
Sensex gained 194 points and Nifty rose 49 points in early trade as crude slipped below $100, while metal, FMCG and PSU bank shares led broad-based sectoral gains in morning trade.
BRICS economies must shape global tax rules for next generation, says FM Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said BRICS countries need to ensure their views are reflected in the new global tax rules, as decisions taken in the next few years could shape cross-border taxation for a generation.
'3 Days' Banking Strike Is A Big Issue'
'There will be some inconvenience to people. But we have given one-month notice to the government one month ago.'
Pfizer India speaks up after Karnataka FDA crackdown, says patient safety is top priority
Pfizer India has stated that patient safety and product quality are their top priorities following FDA actions. The Karnataka FDA canceled 16 drug licenses and suspended eight others due to counterfeit drugs. A raid uncovered an illegal operation repacking low-cost medicines as branded drugs, particularly Pfizer products. Pfizer has removed affected batches from the market and is cooperating with authorities in the investigation.
India flash PMI rises to 56.5 in September as manufacturing strengthens
India's private sector growth strengthened in September, with the HSBC Flash Composite PMI rising to 56.5 from 54.3 in August, led by manufacturing
An emergency fund should prioritise liquidity and stability over returns. Santosh Agarwal of Paisabazaar explains how savings accounts, sweep-in FDs and debt funds can play different roles in an emergency corpus, and the risks investors should consider.
Fitch raises India's FY27 GDP growth projections to 6.9% on strong growth
Fitch Ratings on Wednesday raised India's GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year to 6.9 per cent, from 6.4 per cent, citing strong economic growth in the June quarter and overall economic resilience. According to Fitch, India's economic momentum is likely to moderate over the remaining fiscal year, prompting the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to increase interest rates by 0.25 per cent in its October monetary policy meeting. A growth rate of 7.8 per cent in the June quarter indicates that the Indian economy has shown resilience in the face of the shock from the US-Iran war, despite the strong terms-of-trade deterioration seen in the first half of 2026, Fitch said. It said that PMI survey data point to a slower pace of expansion in both manufacturing and services; below-normal monsoon rains will weigh on growth in agriculture and rural demand; and rising inflation will constrain real incomes and consumer dynamics. Private investment prospects look more buoyant, and we expe
Fitch raises India's FY27 GDP growth projections to 6.9%
Earlier on Wednesday, S&P Global Ratings projected Indias FY27 GDP growth at 7% - the same rate Moodys Ratings projected last week
After S&P, ADB raises India's growth aim to 7% but El Nino clouds food story
India's economy is projected to grow at 7% in 2026 due to resilient consumption and government investment. However, weather risks from a strengthening El Nino may impact agricultural yields and energy prices. The Asian Development Bank has raised its growth forecast, highlighting strong domestic demand and investment. Additionally, inflation is expected to average 5.2%, potentially constraining monetary policy.
JPMorgan to double GIFT City business as $1 billion book expands
JPMorgan Chase & Co. plans to expand its operations at Gujarat's GIFT City in the next few years. The bank aims to double its business in areas like trade finance and payments. After establishing its branch in 2022, JPMorgan currently serves a few hundred clients with a book of nearly $1 billion. GIFT City is attracting multinational companies exploring treasury and cross-border financial operations.
India's fast-track route for low-risk foreign investors logs 164 sign-ups in 100 days, data shows
The SWAGAT-FI framework, launched on June 1, simplifies registration for trusted foreign investors, including pension and sovereign funds. Over 164 registrations have already been recorded within just 100 days of implementation. This new system now allows a 10-year registration period, which reduces compliance costs significantly for long-term investors. While initial registrants include major global asset managers, foreign investment sentiment has fluctuated recently.
Cosmetics From Pakistan Breach Indian Market
CDSCO has warned consumers against using two unauthorised Pakistani whitening creams after finding excessive heavy metals and regulatory violations.
Hanuman Ansh continues to enjoy its run as the surprise blockbuster of this year. The film, which explores the life and times of celebrated Indian saint Neem Karoli Baba, has crossed Rs 331 crore across India.
Banks closed in India for 5 days? SBI & other top lenders send important message before strike
SBI, Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank have advised customers to complete important branch transactions in advance ahead of a proposed bank strike from September 28 to 30, 2026, and use digital and self-service channels during the period.
This weeks OTT lineup brings a mix of thrillers, mysteries, romance, comedy and teen dramas. Netflix releases include Unabomber, The Final Problem, Blood Legacy season 2, My Sad Dead, A Different World and Minerva Academy, alongside The Love Hypothesis and Brothers. Arriving between September 22 and 25, the titles span stories inspired by true events, deadly mysteries, complicated relationships, family secrets and students navigating unusual academic worlds, offering varied viewing options across genres.
Gold and silver prices today, 23 September: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
India, US discuss powering AI economy via energy, digital infrastructure
The Consulate General of India in New York, in collaboration with ReNew and the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF), hosted a roundtable on 'US India PartnershipIn a post on X, the Consulate said that the discussion brought together more than 40 participants from industry, academia, investment, government and civil society, and focused on strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence, energy and digital infrastructure.Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Santosh Kumar Sarangi, USISPF President and CEO Mukesh Aghi, World Bank Executive Director Neelkanth Mishra, ReNew Chairman and CEO Sumant Sinha and ReNew Co-founder Vaishali Nigam Sinha participated in the round table.The discussion focused on Scaling data center and AI infrastructure investment across the US-India corridor, Ensuring reliable, resilient power supply and grid readiness to meet AI-driven demand growth, Mobilizing public, private, and blended capital for cross-border energy and ...
S&P raises India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7%, sees 25 bps RBI rate hike
In its Economic Activity for Asia Pacific report, S&P estimates consumer inflation to average 5.1% in FY27
S&P raises India FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7%, sees 25 bps RBI rate hike
S&P Global Ratings on Wednesday raised India's GDP growth projections for the current fiscal to 7 per cent, citing robust economic activity and forecasting that the RBI could hike interest rates by 25 basis points in FY27. In its Economic Activity for Asia Pacific report, S&P estimates consumer inflation to average 5.1 per cent in FY27. The Indian economy grew higher than expected at 7.8 per cent in the June quarter. S&P said factors like robust industrial activity, healthy consumption, strong goods exports, and accelerating government investment have driven the growth. We have consequently upgraded our GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year, ending March 31, 2027, to 7 per cent, from 6.6 per cent previously, S&P said, adding growth could ease in the second half of the fiscal year as the tailwinds from General Sales Tax rationalisation and income tax cuts diminish. Weather-related risks warrant close monitoring. Cumulative rainfall was 15 per cent below ...
World Bank to give $170 mn emergency fund to Nepal
Taxman called a penny-stock gain bogus after 70,000 became 1.93 crore, heres what Mumbai ITAT said
The Mumbai ITAT deleted a 1.93 crore tax addition on Toyam Industries gains after finding that the taxpayer had produced a transaction trail but the Revenue had not shown specific evidence linking him to alleged price manipulation.
Lady Shri Ram College for Women suspended physical classes and shifted to online teaching after a recent gangrape incident. The college administration prioritized student safety and ensured counselling services are available for affected students. Concerns about safety have led some students to consider returning home temporarily. An online meeting was held by the Students' Union to discuss security measures and collective concerns.
8th Pay Commission: 25 FAQs on latest updates, salary, pension, fitment factor and key dates
The 8th Pay Commission is reviewing salaries, pensions and allowances for central government employees and pensioners. Here are key FAQs on fitment factor, minimum basic pay, pension revision, DA merger, implementation date and upcoming consultation meetings.
India, US discuss boosting AI economy through energy, digital infrastructure at UNGA
A roundtable discussing US-India partnership in artificial intelligence and energy was hosted by the Indian Consulate. The event gathered over 40 participants from various sectors to strengthen cooperation in key areas. Key topics included scaling AI infrastructure and ensuring a reliable power supply to meet demands. A report regarding India's energy export opportunities in the AI era was also launched.
India, Greenland discuss possible areas of stronger cooperation
India's Ambassador to Denmark Manish Prabhat and Greenland's Speaker of Parliament Kim Marius Kielsen explored potential cooperation in various fields. They discussed investment in mining and skilled manpower supply for tourism and healthcare sectors. Additionally, Ambassador Prabhat engaged in talks on polar scientific investigations with a Greenlandic official. Activities included Yoga sessions and discussions on Ayurveda to promote cultural cooperation. The initiative aims to strengthen India-Greenland ties while benefiting both regions.
S&P Global Ratings raises India FY27 growth aim to 7% from 6.6%, estimates 25 bps RBI rate hike
S&P Global Ratings has upgraded its forecast for India's real GDP growth to 7% for the FY27. Strong industrial activity, healthy consumption, and significant government investment contributed to this optimistic outlook. The Reserve Bank of India is expected to raise interest rates by 25 basis points due to rising inflation. Meanwhile, weather-related risks could affect agricultural output in the upcoming months.
Gurgaon-based co-founder and CEO Jasveer Singh believes living away from family can sometimes make relationships healthier. He said staying separately creates natural boundaries, reduces unsolicited advice and constant questions about career, marriage, money and lifestyle, while encouraging children to become more responsible. Singh clarified that parental interference usually comes from love and concern. He believes occasional visits allow families to spend meaningful time together without constantly correcting each other.
Harassment At 12 changed her life: Madhavan applauds Suchika Tariyals historic Asian Games MMA Medal
Suchika Tariyal recently made history by bagging Indias first medal (bronze) at the Asian Games in the category of MMA. However, her tryst with combat sports began with an incident of harassment when she was a little girl. At 12, she took up learning judo to defend herself from predators. She fetched India medals in judo and jiu-jutsu. Now at 36, she has made history, bagging a bronze medal in MMA in the Asian Games.
Big Techs AI switch may dent IT revenue
BHIM App rolls out MyUPI AI assistant for UPI support, mandate management and safety controls
BHIM Payments App has introduced MyUPI, an AI-powered assistant offering 24x7 support for UPI transactions, complaints, Autopay mandates and safety controls. Available in five languages, MyUPI also enables transaction replay, payee verification, UPI Number de-linking and fraud-awareness assistance.
A Bengaluru ITAT ruling shows that missing Form 67 does not automatically extinguish a genuine foreign tax credit claim. A taxpayer who earned 14.42 lakh in Belgium and paid 4.53 lakh tax there was given another chance to prove his 3 lakh FTC claim despite a 1,687-day appeal delay.
Uttar Pradesh Global Capability Centres Policy, 2024: Key features, incentives, and eligibility
The policy provides financial and administrative support to companies establishing Global Capability Centres in Uttar Pradesh
Goyal says 1,000 people to be trained to support exporters at district, state levels
The proposed network will provide handholding support to businesses while industry seeks greater integration of government systems and trade platforms
TReDS platforms can now offer CGTMSE-backed guarantee cover for MSME receivables
The mechanism allows financiers to seek guarantee cover for eligible receivables, potentially encouraging wider participation in invoice-based MSME financing
India starts anti-dumping probe into Chinese Glycine imports
The investigation will examine import data for 2022-25 and determine whether Chinese shipments have harmed Indian producers
MDR gives banks more fuel for UPI play
Govt set to consider auto PLI applications with Chinese investment after FDI nod
The Indian government is likely to consider production-linked incentive applications from auto companies with Chinese investments. This decision comes after President Xi Jinping's recent visit to India and improving relations. Existing applications with foreign direct investment (FDI) approvals will be reviewed for potential benefits. The auto production-linked incentive scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing and investments significantly. Disbursements under this scheme are expected to increase in the upcoming financial years.
'Steve, Jared held 3-hr talks': Trump confirms meeting with Iranians after annihilate Iran threat
Oil prices fluctuated as Saudi Arabia prepared to restart its East-West pipeline, while traders watched diplomatic developments around efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude briefly fell below $98 a barrel on hopes of US-Iran talks and resumed Saudi exports, before recovering some losses after US President Donald Trumps UN speech. Brent stood at $99.66 a barrel at press time.
Brahma AI raises $150m at $2b valuation in multiples-led round
Brahma AI has successfully raised $150 million through preferred share issuance led by Multiples. This funding values the company at $2 billion post-money and aims to support product development and research initiatives. The company has been awarded a Technology & Engineering Emmy Award for its innovative AI-based technology. It is also preparing to launch interactive digital human applications across various sectors.
Mandaadi has emerged as one of the biggest blockbusters in India this year. It has established itself as the fourth most profitable Tamil language film of 2026. Starring Soori and Telugu actor Suhas, the movie is currently breaking box-office records. The film has been acquired for streaming by streaming giant Netflix, as per reports.
RBI warns banks against a loan price war
In situations where banks are inundated with liquidity, the natural tendency among many lenders is to push loans and go down the credit matrix. The fear is that such aggressive lending to generate returns that cover the interest outgo on deposits and other costs may show up as sticky assets a few years down the line.
Govt to weigh Adani airline plan cautiously over airport-airline conflict concerns
The government is carefully considering the Adani Group's request to start an airline, which could impact competition. There are concerns regarding the conflicts of interest due to cross ownership of airports and airlines. Existing airlines have opposed any relaxation of restrictions that could favor a single company like Adani. The Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik scheme aims to boost regional connectivity by making air travel more accessible.
Oil minister Hardeep Puri calls for deeper India-OPEC energy ties
India and OPEC have called for closer cooperation to support a stable and predictable global energy market, with oil minister Hardeep Puri stressing the need for energy security and timely investment in the oil industry.
Oriental Insurance bets on health, MSME products to drive growth
The state-owned general insurer holds 35.2 million shares, representing a 1.42% stake, in the country's largest stock exchange that closed its 22,562-crore initial public offer (IPO) on Monday.
Former FSSAI chief Pawan Kumar Agarwal has urged the Supreme Court to consider a phased rollout of front-of-pack food warnings, warning that the proposed nutrient thresholds could place labels on more than 94% of packaged foods and dilute their impact. His foundation suggested interim thresholds followed by stricter limits over three to five years, with mandatory labelling proposed from July 1, 2027.
Credit card issuers push EMI loans to counter revolver model misfire
With a smaller share of customers carrying balances month to month, interest-bearing receivables are growing more slowly than transaction volumes, pushing issuers to convert purchases into EMIs, deepen personal loan-on-card offerings and extract more fee income from a business that is increasingly being used as a payment product rather than a borrowing product.
Weak core show takes a big toll on Samsung India as net profit plunges 36% to 7,228 cr in FY26
Samsung India reported a 36% drop in net profit driven by declining smartphone sales and increased costs. Revenue from operations experienced a slight 1.2% growth, but profitability remained under pressure. The smartphone business faced challenges with a 1.4% revenue decrease and a significant decline in exports. Despite the tough conditions, retained earnings improved compared to the previous year. Consequently, no dividends were recommended for FY26 amidst these operational changes.
TV distributors switch to apps to keep the show going
India's television distribution industry is moving towards app-based delivery amid changing consumer preferences and connected TV growth. Several companies are launching linear TV streaming services through apps on connected devices, which could reduce costs. Linear pay TV is losing subscribers while free TV and connected TV are gaining significantly. This shift is seen as an opportunity to reach urban consumers and combine live television with streaming content.
Maharashtra drought deepens, crop output crisis mounts
State agriculture minister Dattatray Bharane has confirmed a large contraction in the production of cotton and soybean, while the agriculture department has initiated an early crop assessment to calculate compensation as farmers are removing wilted crops from fields.
Green clearance validity for ports, harbours extended to 20 years
The government has extended the validity of environmental clearances for ports, harbours, breakwaters and dredging projects to 20 years from 10 years, with further extensions possible subject to safeguards. The move aims to support long-term port development and investment as India targets 10,000 MMTPA capacity by 2047. The change also covers eligible ongoing projects with active clearances.
Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk sets sights on hair-loss market
The condition is part of a list of areas, including addiction and menopause, where Novo sees potential overlap with either its core scientific expertise or the skills it's recently built in selling prescription drugs directly to consumers.
Government brings smartphone screen protectors under mandatory BIS quality norms
The Indian government has included smartphone screen protectors under mandatory quality guidelines to improve product standards. Manufacturers now have six months to comply with these new regulations, which take effect in 2027. This initiative aims to protect consumers from low-quality imports, mainly from China, while boosting local production. Industry experts estimate that this move could create significant job opportunities and additional tax revenues.
Look beyond premiumisation: FM Nirmala Sitharaman to India Inc
Sitharaman made a strong pitch for better-governed family businesses and greater corporate spending on research and development. She said the next 20 years would require Indian businesses to move beyond the creation of startups towards building enterprises that could scale, professionalise and endure.
Bira 91 revival plan: Anicut-led board offers to buy out key investors
B9 Beverages, the maker of Bira 91, is attempting to recapitalize amid financial struggles. The company seeks to acquire stakes from major investors like Kirin Holdings and Peak XV Partners. Anicut Capital, its largest lender, has taken over control following disputes with founder Ankur Jain. Settlement offers have been made to creditors and large vendors to facilitate operations.
Quote of the day by Iris Murdoch, Love is the extremely difficult realization that something other than oneself is real, offers a deeper perspective on relationships and human connection. The British novelist and philosopher believed that genuine love involves looking beyond ones own desires and recognising another person as an independent individual.
Sulphur prices surge: Govt plans differential subsidies for DAP production
Sulphur prices surge: The government plans to introduce differential subsidies for DAP under the Nutrient Based Subsidy scheme, with rates potentially varying based on production routes and imported inputs. The move, likely from the upcoming rabi season, aims to encourage domestic DAP production as surging sulphur prices raise costs and make finished fertiliser imports increasingly expensive.
Resort-led real estate gains traction as buyers seek lifestyle beyond second homes
Hospitality-led real estate developments are becoming popular as buyers seek resort-like lifestyles near metro cities. Developers are offering sale-and-leaseback models to cater to these demands in various locations. The evolving preferences of homebuyers emphasize lifestyle choices and integrated living environments that include hospitality elements. Multiple projects around Bengaluru are gaining traction due to the growing demand for quality experiences in residential developments.
