20 C 
'India an important ally': Rubio says Trump studying effects of tariffs on countries like India
US presses Israel over West Bank settler attacks
Indias soybean output seen falling 2.1% to 107.93 lakh tonnes in Kharif 2026: Farmers' body
India's soybean production forecast indicates a slight decline to 107.93 lakh tonnes during the ongoing Kharif season. Drought-like conditions in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana are contributing to this reduction in output. However, increased production in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan is expected to compensate for these losses. The area cultivated with soybean increased by approximately 5 lakh hectares compared to the previous season.
Understand the difference between basic pay, grade pay and pay level under the 8th Pay Commission. Learn how the 7th Pay Commissions pay matrix works, what employee unions are demanding and how the fitment factor could affect revised salaries.
For millions of cancer patients, the cost of treatment can be as frightening as the diagnosis. From steep markups to patented drugs that remain out of reach, the affordability crisis runs deep. A proposed cap may help, but question remains if it will be enough to change the picture.
Mutual funds reshuffled their stock portfolios in September 2026, with notable changes in holding values and shareholding quantities across companies. Here's what these shifts reveal about fund managers buying and selling activity.
Cash landing on you: Litigation funders bet on inheritance battles over crores
Litigation funding has emerged as a viable option for individuals involved in inheritance disputes in India. Firms are assessing the potential returns and legal merits of such cases before committing funds. Many families seek assistance due to their asset-rich but cash-poor situations. The funding process can significantly alter the dynamics of ongoing legal battles for beneficiaries.
Alleged Israeli settlers viciously attacked Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine during an olive harvest in the West Bank. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressed their disturbance regarding the incident. Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the violence, stating it does not represent Israeli values. After surgery, Levine reported injuries and theft of her belongings during the attack.
Dorothy, a Tamil crime drama by Karthik Subbaraj, premiered at TIFF and is soon to be available on OTT. This poignant film follows childhood buddies Sananth and Rishikanth as they deal with social stigmas in rural Tamil Nadu. Their relationship is put to the test by a compassionate woman's impact, led them to revisit past conflicts. Read on to know when and where to watch it online.
'No one at White House ordered...': Rubio rejects claim Trump ordered Ukraine Starlink slowdown
Iran, Pakistan temporarily suspend cross-border movement over technical issues, security concerns
Cross-border movement and exchanges between Iran and Pakistan have been temporarily suspended due to technical issues. Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei confirmed that authorities are working to resolve the situation. Pakistan also halted trade through specific border checkpoints to enhance security measures. Shahid Rind clarified that this decision is aimed at preventing smuggling and improving border administration.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted India's significant energy requirements while discussing waived sanctions on Russia. These sanctions, part of the Lindsey O. Graham Act, could have imposed tariffs on countries importing Russian fuel. Rubio mentioned a 60-day period for further analysis of the sanctions' impact on the global economy. Additionally, he noted changing geopolitical situations affecting global energy supplies and prices.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced potential trilateral talks involving Russia during the upcoming G20 Summit. He expressed willingness to participate in negotiations in any format and location. Zelenskyy called for increased pressure on Moscow rather than on Kyiv in these discussions. Additionally, he expressed disappointment about US President Donald Trump's recent decisions related to sanctions on Russia.
Tata Trusts spending jumps 73% to Rs 1,556 crore in Noel Tatas first full year
Tata Trusts reported a 72.5% increase in philanthropic spending to Rs 1,556.31 crore in 2025-26. Major allocations included Rs 457.62 crore for rural upliftment and Rs 270.26 crore for education. Cancer care projects received Rs 178.46 crore, while direct assistance to individuals totaled Rs 202.99 crore. Noel Tata emphasized the importance of sustainable outcomes over sheer spending figures.
Why Val Chmerkovskiy is missing Dancing with the Stars after controversial Fresh Prince remark
Val Chmerkovskiy has been suspended from Dancing with the Stars after a social media remark referencing Will Smiths 2022 Oscars slap sparked controversy. The professional dancer later apologized to judge Carrie Ann Inaba and addressed the decision in an Instagram Story.
From Assam to Bihar, Kerala, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Sikkim, West Bengal and more we check the full list of states that announced DA and DR hikes for employees and pensioners in 2026.
BSNL employees raised demands for wage revision, 7th CPC-linked wages for casual labourers, higher retirement contributions, revised allowances, and festival advances at the 41st National Council meeting. Here's what was discussed and what the management said.
Ranabaali was released on October 16 and recorded a decent opening box office collection. The film grossed Rs 9.25 crore on its first day in India, followed by Rs 7.30 crore on Day 2. Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, it explores historical themes set during the British colonial era. Vijay Deverakonda's intense performance has received praise from filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga too. Read on!
Keralam DA, DR hike: Government raises rates from 35% to 37%; here's when the payments will begin
Keralam has raised Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) from 35% to 37% for eligible state government employees and pensioners. Revised payments begin in November 2026, while separate government orders will clarify arrears due from January 1, 2026.
Jailer 2, featuring the legendary Rajinikanth, has impressively surpassed the Rs 300 crore milestone globally within just three days of release. However, the Hindi release is encountering distribution challenges linked to streaming window disagreements, which could impact its potential audience among Hindi speakers. Read on to know how much it earned on day 3 in India.
Gold on Dhanteras: celebrate the ritual, rethink the investment
There is nothing wrong with the ritual. Just dont mistake it for investing.
Insurance reforms: Why claims matter more than distribution costs
As Irdai weighs changes to insurance distribution, rising health claims disputes and gaps in grievance redressal underscore the need for stronger insurer accountability, fairer claims settlement and better policyholder protection.
Kolkata pandal stampede toll climbs to 19, CM Suvendu Adhikari orders high-level safety review
12 dead, several hurt in Gwalior temple accident
Navratri fasting food goes gourmet as restaurants see demand
Restaurants are stepping into a meal occasion traditionally associated with home kitchens to keep guests observing dietary restrictions at the table. The appetite for outsourcing fasting food is already evident: during September 2025's Navratri, Swiggy delivered more than 100,000 vrat thalis, 99,200 plates of sabudana khichdi and 70,000 orders of sabudana vada, according to its annual food trends report.
Family offices bet Rs 2,000 cr on temple hotels
Mumbai: Family offices are investing in hospitality assets around major pilgrimage centres across India, from Deoghar and Mathura to Saurashtra and Udupi, opening a new frontier for the domestic hotel industry. From a Mumbai family office acquiring a nearly completed upscale hotel in Udupi to RR Kabel's investment in Salasar Balaji, family capital is flowing into branded hotels around India's biggest pilgrimage centres.Nearly Rs 2,000 crore has been committed across key religious destinations over the past 12-18 months, according to Noesis Hotel Advisors, as some of India's wealthiest business families turn their conviction in these destinations into a hospitality investment play.Also Read: Lemon Tree Hotels announces signing of MoU with Omaxe for operating 4,000 keysThe Udupi acquisition involves a nearly completed 137-room upscale hotel that will operate under a premium brand of Indian Hotels Company (IHCL). In Salasar Balaji, a family office is developing a 108-room property, while ITC Hotels has signed a 145-room Welcomhotel project on a six-acre site near the temple.135018616In Khatu Shyamji, Royal Orchid Hotels has signed a 120-room hotel with the Agarwal family, around 2 km from the temple.The deals signal a shift from traditional dharamshalas and independent lodgings towards branded, professionally managed hotels. IHCL, ITC Hotels, Sarovar Hotels and Radisson are among the operators expanding across religious markets.For Mahendra Kabra, managing director at RR Kabel, the investment in Salasar Balaji is driven by personal faith as well as commercial conviction.Also Read: Protests, traffic curbs in Delhi hit hotel businessResilience of Religious TravelI am a big believer in Salasar Balaji and go there every year. Instead of having a dharamshala there, I thought it would be better to invest in a hospitality asset in Salasar Balaji, he said. The hotel will be managed by Sarovar Hotels.The appeal for investors lies in the relative resilience of religious travel. A metro hotel lives and dies by corporate cycles; a pilgrimage hotel draws guests in good years and bad years alike, a representative of a Mumbai-based family office that recently invested in the segment said on condition of anonymity.Faith is India's most reliable demand generator, said Ajay Bakaya, chairman of Sarovar Hotels, an early entrant in several religious destinations. Occupancy is strong in these markets, according to him, particularly for mid-tier properties with 80-100 rooms. A lot of family offices also see development potential in investing in properties in such religious locations, he said.Much of the capital comes from regional trading, industrial and real estate families in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Individual investments range from 60 crore for a midscale hotel to 150 crore or more for an upscale asset, according to Noesis Hotel Advisors.This is not speculative money. These are families who have watched pilgrim footfall in their own towns double in a decade and are now converting that conviction into branded, institutional-grade assets, said Nandivardhan Jain, founder and CEO of Noesis Hotel Advisors, which has advised on some of the deals. The capital is patient, it is local and it is backed by land the family already owns. That combination makes it one of the most stable sources of hotel equity in India today. Jain cautioned, though, that resilient demand and family-owned land do not guarantee a viable hotel. A temple is not a feasibility study, he said.Better roads, airports, expressways, and pilgrimage corridors are turning day-trip destinations into overnight stops, improving the economics of branded hospitality. For hotel chains looking beyond saturated urban markets, temple towns offer a growing pool of demand and relatively limited branded supply. For family offices, experts say the bet is on faith-an enduring reason to travel.
US President Donald Trump has waived fresh sanctions and duties on Russian energy exports under a new law, citing national interest and easing concerns over potential tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers, including India. The move comes as India continues to rely on Russian crude and explores long-term LNG supplies, while New Delhi and Moscow seek to expand cooperation across oil, gas, mining and steel.
Christmas cheer, but caution remains: Exporters welcome US tariff relief, keep diversification plans
US President Donald Trumps decision to waive proposed tariffs of up to 100% on buyers of Russian oil has eased uncertainty for Indian exporters ahead of the crucial Christmas shipping season. However, businesses across textiles, gems and jewellery, and human hair products say they will continue diversifying export markets after last years tariff turmoil, even as the US remains a key destination for Indian goods.
David Humes famous quote, Nothing is more surprising than the easiness with which the many are governed by the few, explores why a small group of people can hold power over millions. In his essay Of the First Principles of Government, the Scottish philosopher argued that political authority depends largely on public opinion, people's belief in the legitimacy of rulers and their trust in established institutions.
India notifies first tariff cuts under New Zealand FTA
India will implement duty concessions for certain imports from New Zealand starting October 20, under a new FTA. The concessions include zero basic customs duty for sheep meat and specific rates for fish and wine. Additionally, provisions have been made for manuka honey and kiwi fruit imports with varying duties. Sensitive categories like dairy products are excluded from this trade liberalization agreement.
Central government employees await the July 2026 DA/DR hike, with no announcement as of October 16. Past revisions were announced between late September and October, raising hopes for a festive-season decision. However, history offers no guarantee of when the Centre will announce the hike.
Reliance and Blinkit executives face FIR
The government announced a productivity-linked bonus for postal employees for 202526. Details here.
Suits & Sayings: Local Problem
ETs roundup of the wackiest whispers in corporate corridors
Prince Harry and Meghan Markles first joint public appearance in the UK since their return has raised questions about their future plans. While the couple reunited with well-wishers and visited charities in Nottingham, reports suggest their professional priorities may be moving in different directions. Heres what their appearance revealed about their UK return, individual ambitions and the possibility of more independent careers.
Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford | Putting people in economics
The winners of the 2026 Economics Nobel Prize transformed macroeconomics by showing how individual choices, household expectations and business behaviour shape the economy and influence the effectiveness of government policies
India top order eyes better show vs Zimbabwe
Delhi sets up DITI on lines of NITI Aayog, to act as premier advisory body
Delhi government has set up Delhi Institute for Transformation and Innovation (DITI) on the lines of NITI Aayog, for policy-making under its goal of Viksit Dilli by 2047, officials said on Saturday. DITI will function as the Delhi government's premier advisory body for public policy, development strategy and institutional reforms, an official notification said. DITI replaces the Dialogue and Development Commission (DDC) that previously served as the think tank of the city government under AAP rule. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had announced the constitution of DITI in Delhi's budget presented in March. In July, the Delhi government approved setting up the think tank comprising a Governing Board and an Executive Committee. According to the notification, the governing board's chairperson will be nominated by the chief minister. All ministers of the Delhi government, the chief secretary, the vice-chairperson of the Delhi Development Authority, the commissioner of the Municipal ...
Jio Platforms has filed its Red Herring Prospectus (RHP) for its much-awaited IPO, which will open for subscription on October 21 and close on October 23, 2026. The issue comprises up to 27 crore equity shares, with shares worth up to Rs 500 crore reserved for eligible employees and Rs 2,500 crore for eligible Reliance Industries shareholders.
Gold, silver prices ahead of Diwali 2026: Expert sees gold at Rs 1.5 lakh, silver at Rs 2.3 lakh
Gold and silver prices may see limited gains ahead of Diwali 2026, according to commodity expert Anuj Gupta. Gold could reach Rs 1.5 lakh per 10 grams, while silver may touch Rs 2.2 lakh-Rs 2.3 lakh per kg. Rising interest rates, increased interest in bonds and weak industrial demand for silver could limit the upside
India, West Indies draw T20 series after washout
Hyderabads consumer commission directed SBI to pay a retired scientist 15.35 lakh after finding deficiency in service over his matured fixed deposit. Details here.
ICICI Bank Q2 net profit up 22% to Rs 16,333 cr
ICICI Bank announced a significant 22.28 per cent increase in its consolidated net profit, reaching Rs 16,333.18 crore for the September quarter, primarily fuelled by a 30 per cent jump in its loan portfolio.
Rs 10cr-plus Mumbai luxury apartments lead residential sales as real estate plateaus
Mumbai likely to see oversupply of residential real estate: Experts
FSSAI proposes new pesticide residue limits for tea to protect consumers
The proposed standards aim to provide regulatory clarity for tea growers and processors while supporting food safety monitoring and enforcement
Weather Tomorrow: IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across parts of southern India, with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu among the affected regions. Rain is expected to continue in several areas through October 23. Fishermen have also been advised to exercise caution along parts of the Arabian Sea coast.
No Kings anti-Trump movement: More than 3,200 events had been planned in all 50 states, after the two previous nationwide events attracted millions of participants.
Richa Parashar, a journalist, filed a complaint against Rahul Gandhi for manhandling during a protest. The incident occurred on October 12 while covering a demonstration by Opposition leaders. Parashar alleged that Gandhi grabbed her and caused her to fall, resulting in injuries. She emphasized the lack of assistance from his supporters after the fall. Parashar has requested that media organizations release footage of the incident.
HDFC Bank Q2 Profit Up 6%; New MD Bagchi to Tackle Balance Sheet, Retail Challenges
HDFC Bank reported a 5.55 per cent increase in consolidated net profit to Rs 20,700 crore for the September quarter, with incoming MD and CEO Anup Bagchi indicating a focus on strengthening the balance sheet and addressing retail vertical concerns post-merger.
Aayush Wellness Limited has launched Aayush Calcium Vitamin Tablets, expanding its nutraceutical portfolio into the bone and joint health segment. The formulation combines calcium citrate, vitamin D2, magnesium, zinc and folic acid to support bone strength, calcium absorption and musculoskeletal health. The company said the launch aligns with growing consumer interest in preventive healthcare and nutritional supplements.
Govt notifies 30% cap on trade margins on 137 cancer drugs, new prices from November 9
The move is aimed at reducing the prices patients pay for these medicines
An Emirates flight from Delhi to Dubai has been delayed until October 18 after the aircraft encountered a bird strike on arrival in the national capital. Separately, Air India and Air India Express have extended the suspension of flights to Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam until October 24 amid the security situation in West Asia, offering eligible passengers complimentary date changes.
Rapido booked in Pune for allegedly operating bike taxis without licence
The case comes amid continuing uncertainty over bike-taxi regulations across states
Can Trump deport Ilhan Omar from the US?
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu calls for roadmap to boost yak economy, herders income
Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the importance of creating a roadmap for yak conservation. He highlighted the need to support yak herders through suitable policy interventions from both levels of government. A proposed cooperative society aims to help herders improve their income and market access. The Chief Minister also called for capacity building and scientific practices to strengthen the yak economy.
Nestl & Hindustan Unilever face FSSAI notices
Commerce Ministry organizes Leveraging FTAs outreach program in Jaipur to boost exports
The Commerce Ministry organized an outreach event in Jaipur, targeting exporters to clarify the use of benefits provided by India's free trade agreements. This initiative aims to translate preferential market access into tangible export opportunities for Indian enterprises, emphasizing Rajasthan's strengths in textiles, handicrafts, and gems. Plans for coordination among stakeholders are outlined to optimize support for exporters moving forward.
Understanding the tech behind Dolby Cinema: What makes it different from a regular theatre?
Dolby Laboratories has launched Keralas first Dolby Cinema in Fort Kochi, combining Dolby Vision projection and Dolby Atmos sound in a 450-seater auditorium. But what makes it different from a regular theatre, how does its technology improve the movie-watching experience, and will the difference justify a premium ticket price?
India's space economy may reach USD 40-45 billion in 7
India's space economy is expected to grow from around USD 9 billion to USD 40
Chandigarh recorded its highest-ever property registration in July, with a 30.3-kanal industrial plot selling for 200.32 crore. A Sector 9-B house fetched 100 crore. Rising residential, commercial and agricultural values have boosted stamp duty revenue, despite fewer registered documents.
NPPA caps trade margins on 137 cancer drugs at 30%, revised prices from Nov 9
India's National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority has capped trade margins for 137 anti-cancer drugs at 30% of their maximum retail price. This cap, effective from November 9, applies to all listed drugs, including Atezolizumab and Bevacizumab. Manufacturers must adjust prices if they exceed the newly calculated maximum retail price. Compliance will be monitored by state drug controllers and hospitals, which play a significant role in drug supply.
Anirudh Ravichander and Kavya Maran are reportedly gearing up for a lavish wedding reception on November 21, 2026. High-profile invitations have been dispatched to notable political figures, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. While the couple's wedding ceremony is tentatively planned in Greece on November 11, specifics remain under wraps.
HDFC Banks post-merger integration work largely behind us, says incoming MD & CEO Anup Bagchi
HDFC Bank has made significant strides in integrating its merger with HDFC Ltd after its completion in July. The bank's incoming CEO, Anup Bagchi, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong credit quality during varying economic cycles. Bagchi also acknowledged the contributions of Deputy Managing Director Kaizad Bharucha and the wider team. The bank plans to further improve its branch network and technology capabilities in the future.
Rs 3,600 crore business enquiries at 5-day handicraft fair
Over 7,300 buyers participated in the 62nd IHGF Delhi Fair held from October 13 to 17. Business enquiries at the fair totaled Rs 3,600 crore, demonstrating strong international interest. Buyers from 105 countries, including the US, UK, and Germany, were present. Many brands indicated a significant shift toward sourcing more products from Indian manufacturers. India's handicraft exports reached $3.75 billion for the fiscal year 2025-26.
A passenger travelling on the Kaveri Express received medical assistance after a wireless earbuds silicone tip got stuck in their ear during an overnight journey. According to a Reddit post, a call to Indian Railways 139 helpline prompted railway staff, the RPF and a doctor to coordinate help at Jolarpettai, where the earbud tip was removed.
Kapil Sibal accuses Modi govt of throttling dissent, says protest has become a crime
Policyholders may claim from both employer-provided and individual health insurance for one hospitalisation. But if you overlook certain terms, it can lead to a rejection. Check details.
More US universities to face J-1 visa probes
More US universities could come under investigation for potential J-1 visa fraud, US Department of Labor Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito said. He also said that subpoenas had been served and investigations were already underway.Nine universities under investigation for potential J-1 visa fraudmore to come. Companies suspended. Warrants executed. Subpoenas issued. American first. Just getting started, D'Esposito said in a post on X.— USLaborIG (@USLaborIG) Earlier, last Thursday, US Vice President JD Vance announced a federal investigation into nine universities over their use of J-1 visas. He alleged that some institutions were bringing foreign researchers to the US at lower wages than those paid to American workers.Also Read: US announces investigation into 9 universities, including Ivy League schools, over J-1 visasThe universities named in the investigation are the University of Pittsburgh, Yale University, Harvard University, Stanford University, Brown University, the University of California, Davis, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Arizona State University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).Vance alleged that American graduate students and researchers earned about $20,000 more than foreign researchers brought in under the J-1 programme for comparable work. He also said foreign nationals accounted for about 61% of postdoctoral workers and researchers supported by federal grants at the nine universities, compared with 38% at other universities.Also Read: US universities review CPT rules for international students as higher education groups seek court relief, hearing on November 6The J-1 visa programme allows foreign nationals to enter the US temporarily as exchange visitors for activities such as research, teaching, internships, training and other educational or cultural exchanges.The Labor Department's inspector general has also announced a Visa Fraud Strike Team to investigate and prosecute suspected visa fraud in high-risk programmes, including J-1 and H-1B visas. The initiative will bring together personnel from the departments of Labor, Justice and Homeland Security, US Citizenship and Immigration Services, Homeland Security Investigations and the State Department's Diplomatic Security Service.The authorities have said the investigation will examine whether visa misuse, improper financial relationships or foreign influence are compromising federally funded research.
Iranian fishermen searching for fish find floating iPhones, luxury perfumes in Hormuz
A cargo vessels sinking in the Strait of Hormuz has left questions over maritime safety after Iranian fishermen recovered goods from the surrounding waters. All 21 crew members of the GFS Pride escaped, but competing explanations for the incident, including a mine or a possible missile or drone strike, remain unconfirmed.
Elon Musks Tesla Roadster has showcased stunts that seem to defy the laws of physics, from lifting off the ground to driving upside down. But the technology behind these moves is very different from what powers an ordinary electric car. Heres how its rocket thrusters and suction system work, what makes its performance claims unusual, and whether buyers will be able to get their hands on this futuristic vehicle.
Recently, a captivating tarot reading predicting Anirudh Ravichander's future wife's profile has resurfaced on social media. This intriguing reading hints at her educational and professional journey. Amid rumors of their wedding plans, including a reception invitation and a possible ceremony in Greece, discussions about their relationship have been ongoing since 2025, although Anirudh has previously quashed marriage speculation.
Agitators shut all gates of Bokaro Steel Plant; production impacted
Trained apprentices at Bokaro Steel Plant have blocked all 11 factory gates as part of their protest. This ongoing agitation, which entered its eighth day, includes an indefinite hunger strike. Protesters, mainly from displaced families, demand regularisation of their jobs and a clear recruitment policy. BSL management claims 204 of the 950 apprentices are already engaged as contractual workers.
US' Russia sanction waiver a relief for India's exporters, energy security: Experts
The waiver of sanctions under the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act provides relief for India's energy security. Experts believe that continued access to Russian crude will support economic growth and ease inflationary pressures. While the waiver offers temporary relief, uncertainty remains regarding future contracts and investments. Trade organizations express hope for improving bilateral trade relations and advancing discussions between India and the US.
Shridevi Institute, US-based Vaxonyx sign MoU for AI-driven cancer and genomic research
Shridevi Institute of Medical Sciences in Tumakuru has signed an MoU with Vaxonyx LLC for collaboration. This partnership aims to focus on AI-enabled bioinformatics and genomic research tailored for Indian populations. They will develop personalized cancer therapies by analyzing individual tumor profiles. The collaboration will also explore the creation of genomic datasets to improve genetic models. Moreover, they intend to develop DNA-based vaccine candidates for relevant public health issues.
Axis appoints HDFC veteran to lead Bharat Banking
ixigo has reported substantial growth in its hotel business, surpassing 5,000 room nights booked daily. The company is aiming to become a leading player in the mid-market hotel segment over the next few years. ixigo's revenue from hotel bookings has seen impressive year-on-year growth, primarily from its own user base. International flight bookings also showed significant growth, as domestic fares remained high.
Expired food found at Delhi delivery stores
Axis Bank's Freecharge gets in-principle RBI nod to operate as payment aggregator
Axis Bank's digital payments platform Freecharge has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India. The approval allows Freecharge to operate under PA-O1 and PA-P1 categories starting in FY27. The bank has reported a 34% year-on-year growth in UPI transaction value for July-September. Digital transactions represented 98% of the total financial transactions during this quarter. Axis Bank continues to expand its digital payments operations, reflecting ongoing investment in technology.
Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25, 2026, left behind a significant philanthropic legacy. The Imagination Library, launched in 1995, has gifted over 325 million books to young children. This initiative started from her own father's literacy challenges and aimed to improve access to books. Furthermore, Parton contributed to healthcare and disaster relief, reflecting her commitment to service. Her work continues to influence children's literacy and community support.
Trumps super intelligence diplomat: Marco Rubio
Gold FoFs have restricted fresh investments, while silver funds and gold ETFs remain open. Experts explain the impact of India's import bill, why silver has been treated differently, the risks of ETF premiums, and what investors should consider before choosing either metal.
One last bittersweet pitch for HDFC Bank as CEO Sashidhar Jagdishan prepares to exit
HDFC Bank CEO Sashidhar Jagdishan, who will step down on October 26 after deciding against seeking a second reappointment, expressed confidence in the lenders resilience and growth prospects. He said the bank had overcome regulatory restrictions, the Covid-19 pandemic, a complex merger and monetary tightening, adding that governance issues had been settled.
HDFC Bank deputy MD Kaizad Bharucha to step down on December 31
Kaizad Bharucha has submitted his resignation as deputy managing director of HDFC Bank, effective December 31, 2026. This decision follows the Reserve Bank of India's approval for Anup Bagchi to become the new managing director. Bharucha has served as a whole-time director since June 2014 and would have exceeded the 15-year tenure limit by June 2029. His departure marks a significant leadership change at Indias largest private-sector lender.
Indian IT stocks post best week in 18 years, Nifty IT up 11.72%
Indian IT stocks have experienced their most significant weekly surge in 18 years, with the Nifty IT index climbing 11.72 per cent, as a global sell-off in AI-linked equities redirected investor attention towards India's IT services sector. This shift aligns with a JP Morgan report identifying India as a 'natural AI hedge' due to its large, liquid market and strong domestic institutional investor base.
This TDS reporting form replaces 4 different forms
Central Bank's net profit ticks up 21% in Q2 FY26
Central Bank of India reported a 21% increase in net profit amounting to Rs 1469 crore for September 2026. Net interest income grew by 26% to Rs 4146 crore, reflecting strong loan growth. Total advances rose by 30% to Rs 3.81 lakh crore, driven by retail, agriculture and MSME sectors. Despite a drop in other income, asset quality improved with net NPA decreasing to 0.31%.
HDFC Bank deputy MD seeks to step down on Dec 31
Who will pay for today's optimism if AI goes wrong? CEA Anantha Nageswaran answers
Chief Economic Adviser Anantha Nageswaran raised concerns over the financial risks linked to artificial intelligence. He stated that finance ministries, central banks, and households could face costs from misplaced optimism. Even if AI expectations are met, these entities may still incur expenses. Nageswaran intends to outline five specific risks regarding this issue. He plans to suggest potential government actions to mitigate these risks in future discussions.
