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Meet Rahul Shukla. Axis Bank appoints former HDFC Bank veteran to lead Commercial, Bharat Banking
The appointment brings an experienced banking professional into a key role at Axis Bank, which serves businesses and customers across multiple segments of the Indian banking market.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
ICICI Bank reported a 20% year-on-year rise in Q2 net profit to 14,843 crore, supported by an 18% increase in net interest income. However, net interest margin narrowed to 4.18% from 4.36% in the previous quarter, with the bank expecting further pressure in Q3 due to foreign currency non-resident bank (FCNR-B) deposit mobilisation and branch expansion costs.
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.
The central government has unveiled a Performance Linked Bonus for postal employees for the fiscal year 2025-26. This bonus will be equivalent to 60 days' emoluments, capped at Rs 7,000. Those eligible include Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS), Group C workers, and non-gazetted Group B members. Additionally, Gramin Dak Sevaks who meet certain criteria will be entitled to an ex-gratia bonus, as detailed by the Department of Posts.
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.
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%.
The 1.25 lakh annual LTCG exemption applies to Indian equity investments, but does it also apply to foreign stocks held by an Indian investor? Check details here.
FSSAI proposes banning addition of fructose, sucrose in baby food products
The FSSAI has drafted an amendment to restrict the use of sucrose and fructose in infant food products aimed at infants below six months. This initiative is designed to elevate nutritional standards and minimize sugar intake in early childhood, directly relating to public health concerns like rising childhood obesity. Feedback from stakeholders is welcomed during the consultation period to discuss this impactful proposal.
Yash Fans is investing 152.74 crore to establish the first consumer electronics manufacturing plant in Chhattisgarh. The new facility will create approximately 3,500 jobs for local residents, supporting families across the state. This plant will manufacture products for notable brands like Crompton and Havells, enhancing local industry. The Chief Minister emphasized the government's dedication to job creation and industrial development.
Tesla opens Roadster bookings in India: Check price, launch date and Model Y L details
Tesla has started taking reservations for its new Roadster in India, with production set to begin in 2028. The Roadster will feature a design inspired by advanced aircraft and aim to surpass the performance of Plaid models. Additionally, the Model Y L, a six-seater SUV, now includes a complimentary Acceleration Boost upgrade. Tesla continues to expand its charging network, with new Supercharger and Destination Charger installations planned.
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund has nearly halved its cash allocation in six months, signalling a shift towards deploying money in select opportunities. With cash levels falling below 10%, the funds latest portfolio reveals where it is increasing exposure and how its returns compare with the benchmark.
ICICI Bank Q2 Results: Net profit jumps 20% YoY to Rs 14,843 crore, NII rises 18%
ICICI Bank Q2 Results: Private lender ICICI Bank reported a net profit of Rs 14,843 crore in the second quarter of financial year 2027, marking 20.1% year-on-year increase from Rs 12,359 crore posted in the same period last year.
IDBI Bank Q2 net profit falls 39% to Rs 2,205 crore on lower other income
IDBI Bank reported a 39% year-on-year decline in Q2 FY27 net profit to Rs 2,205 crore, mainly due to the absence of a one-time Rs 1,699 crore gain from the NSDL stake sale in the year-ago quarter. Excluding that gain, net profit would have risen 14%.
BharatPe has launched its Tyohar BharatPe Gold Offer for the festive season, giving eligible customers 5% extra digital gold and a chance to win prizes from a 20 lakh pool. The campaign runs from 11 October to 10 November 2026 through the BharatPe ecosystem.
DLF signs agreement to add 7.48 acre land on Golf Course Extension road in Gurgaon
DLF has entered into a collaboration to acquire an additional 7.48 acres of land in Gurugram. This addition will increase its total development potential to 36 acres. The new land is contiguous to a previously acquired 28.5-acre parcel. DLF plans to launch projects in both Gurugram and Mumbai within the upcoming quarters. Their recent sales in Gurugram generated significant revenue, reflecting strong market demand.
DLF focuses on housing sales, healthy margins, rental income as growth engines: MD Ashok Tyagi
DLF Ltd focuses on generating strong pre-sales of luxury homes and increasing rental income from commercial properties. The company expects significant revenue growth as housing projects launched post-COVID complete over the coming years. DLF's recent performance reflects brand strength and disciplined execution, despite a decline in sales bookings. The company has achieved a positive net cash position, even after significant dividend outflows.
CareEdge Chief Economist Raj Sinha said the US decision to waive sanctions provisions that could have led to tariffs of up to 100% on India offers economic relief, but New Delhi must remain cautious and pursue a comprehensive trade deal with Washington.
Factor-based mutual funds use strategies such as momentum, quality and low volatility to select stocks. We compare the leading schemes by 1-year, 3-year and 5-year returns and examine which strategies top each period.
The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana supports first-time employees enrolled with EPFO through financial aid of up to Rs 15,000. Disbursed in two instalments, the first payment occurs after six months of steady employment, while the second is contingent on completing a financial literacy course.
India's Russian crude binge to continue after Trump waives new sanctions law
With a fresh sanctions waiver from the US, India is poised to sustain its current levels of Russian crude imports, having now surpassed China as the leading importer. The country's strategic embrace of discounted Russian oil has transformed its energy cost framework and prompted a rethink of crude sourcing tactics. Analysts anticipate that this trend will have lasting effects on India's import profile and overall economic dynamics.
Renault bets big on hybrids, CNG to win back India
Unstabilised approach, low-altitude stall caused 2023 Mumbai Learjet crash: AAIB report
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau finalized the investigation into the crash of a Learjet in Mumbai. Key factors included crew errors, adverse weather, and a commitment to land before restricted hours. The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during a landing attempt, resulting in an off-runway crash. All eight occupants were injured but evacuated successfully, and a fire was extinguished by emergency crews.
500%, 100%, then a waiver: How India escaped Trump's Russia tariff threat
In the beginning it was 500%, then it came down to 100% and then, a waiver. This is how the tariff threat has evolved from an ambitious proposal into a more flexible instrument of policy for Trump and US. For India, the immediate danger has receded. But with US retaining the power to reinstate the measures, the waiver offers relief rather than a lasting resolution.
Apple's 'extraordinary' iPhone Duo demand puts foldable bet to the test
Apple says demand for its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, has been extraordinary after delivery estimates stretched to late January within minutes of pre-orders opening. Bloomberg Intelligence analysts see scope for sales to exceed earlier forecasts, while the device could raise Apple's average selling price by attracting premium iPhone users.
FSSAI's legal action against Priyagold biscuits for using cattle feed bran, 2 others also in net
Legal proceedings for prosecution have also been initiated against Dodla Dairy and UEIR Organic Foods for serious violations of FSSAI rules and regulations
8 small, midcap stocks with upside potential of up to 50%. How many are in your portfolio?
PL Capital remains cautious after the Niftys eight-week losing streak, warning against expectations of a V-shaped recovery. Despite market uncertainty, the brokerage favours eight small and midcap stocks, including CESC, Amber Enterprises and Healthcare Global, citing potential upside of 13-50%.
A step-up SIP can help investors build a larger corpus by increasing contributions over time. But does investing more mean higher returns? Find a comparison of regular SIPs, fixed 1,000 top-ups, and 10% annual top-ups data to understand their impact on wealth creation and XIRR over 5 to 25 years.
Indias rising temperatures and growing AC adoption: The country's AC market is predicted to grow significantly in the coming years due to rising temperatures and urbanization. A recent survey indicates that air conditioners are an essential part of household electricity consumption. Many consumers are prioritizing energy efficiency when purchasing air conditioning units to reduce their electricity bills. Companies are responding by introducing advanced technology and enhancing energy-saving features in their products.
Fairfax's IDBI buy: Biggest-ever banking M&A deal in India had no investment bankers
Fairfax Financial Holdings $5.6 billion acquisition of a controlling stake in IDBI Bank is significant not just for being the biggest foreign investment in Indias banking sector, but also because the transaction was handled without the involvement of major investment banks. Fairfax and IDBI Bank did not launch a formal process to appoint financial advisers, while KPMG advised the government on the sale and two professional agencies helped determine the governments fair valuation.
EPFO VISHWAS 2026 explained: How employers can settle pending Section 14B penal damages
EPFO VISHWAS 2026 allows eligible employers to settle pending Section 14B penal damages at concessional rates. Understand why EPF damages are imposed, how the scheme works, and what employers should check before applying.
'Twelve years, 12 questions': Akhilesh Yadav targets Centre on banking problems in India
Akhilesh Yadav has posed twelve significant questions to the Centre about the current state of the banking sector. His concerns highlight issues like bank privatisation, high fees, and the challenges faced by customers. He queries the closure of rural branches and the accessibility of loans for young borrowers and small traders. Yadav also addresses cyber fraud, loan interest rates, and the pressure on bank employees affecting customer service.
'Oil prices may ease to $80 per barrel in 2027'
Akhilesh Yadav poses 12 questions to Centre on banking sector issues
The News Mill
Expired food back on sale? Reliance Consumer, Zomato, Blinkit under Maharashtra FDA scanner
Mumbai Police have filed a FIR involving Reliance Consumer Products, Blinkit and Zomato Hyperpure, along with disposal agency operators and local suppliers. The Maharashtra FDA seized food stock worth over Rs 48 lakh during a significant enforcement operation. Investigations revealed that expired and damaged products were allegedly diverted for sale rather than destroyed as required. After inspections, the licenses of five establishments were suspended due to violations of food safety regulations.
EPFO explains new rules for EPF advances: Check withdrawal limits, conditions and forms
EPFO has outlined new rules for advances, including withdrawal limits and frequency. Members with at least 12 months of membership may withdraw up to 75% of their EPF balance, including employee and employer contributions with interest.
Gold rate today: On October 17, 2026, a rise in gold prices marked a significant shift for leading jewellery retailers, including Tanishq and Malabar Gold.
The Indian government has approved the continuation of the National Social Assistance Programme with significant financial outlay. Changes will be made to pension schemes, including eligibility criteria and assistance rates. The eligibility for disability pension will now depend on 40% disability against the previous 80%. This initiative aims to benefit 3.20 crore individuals across all states and Union Territories.
Explained: Want to know how long your investment will take to triple? Use Rule 114
Rule 114 helps investors estimate how long mutual fund investments may take to triple based on expected annual returns. Dividing 114 by the return rate gives the approximate timeframe, supporting long-term financial planning. However, the formula provides only an estimate, as mutual fund returns fluctuate and are never guaranteed.
Mrs. Khanwani, a Dubai resident, faced tax notices for unexplained money linked to her FCNR deposits. The ITAT Jaipur ruled in her favor, highlighting the funds' clear origin from bank records. The Income Tax Department could not dispute the source of funds provided by her husband, Mr. Chand.
REC and Cochin Shipyard among top 5 midcap stocks that saw highest mutual fund selling in September
These top five midcap stocks witnessed the highest net selling by mutual funds in September. Here is a detailed breakup, according to a report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services.
Uttar Pradesh and Kerala will observe public holidays on October 19 and 20, 2026, for Mahanavami and Vijaya Dashmi. Banks will remain closed for three days in Uttar Pradesh and four days in Kerala. Customers should complete any important banking tasks before the holidays begin on October 18. Digital banking services will still be available during these holidays for customer convenience.
Finance Ministry clarifies on legislative developments concerning govt's IDBI Bank stake
The Finance Ministry clarified the legislative developments regarding IDBI Bank's government stake in 2003. An amendment to restrict the dilution of the government's ownership was proposed but ultimately rejected during parliamentary discussions. The ministry highlighted that this issue was previously examined by the Delhi High Court. This examination took place in the case of All India IDBI Officers' Association v. Union of India & Others.
AI bubble burst may trigger 2008-like banking crisis, says Gary Marcus
In a recent discussion, Gary Marcus raised critical flags about OpenAI's fiscal responsibilities as the stock market faces instability. He warned that the demise of leading AI firms could trigger extensive financial repercussions. Notably, Marcus compared the current climate to WeWork's disastrous decline, suggesting that Microsoft might pick up OpenAI at a bargain.
Home loan alert: SBI, PNB and 4 other banks revise lending rates how borrowers may be affected
Six major banks, including SBI and PNB, have revised their repo-linked lending rates in October 2026. Here are the updated benchmarks, effective dates and what existing and prospective home loan borrowers should know about EMIs and borrowing costs.
192% return on SGB premature redemption: Gold bond turns Rs 1 lakh investment into Rs 2.92 lakh
Sovereign Gold Bond: The Reserve Bank of India has announced the redemption price for Sovereign Gold Bonds 2020-21 Series VII, allowing investors to redeem on October 19, 2026. Priced at Rs 14,614 per unit, this reflects an impressive total return of approximately 192% since its launch.
Trump's waiver of Graham law curbs comes as a relief to India, other Russian energy buyers
Trumps waiver of Graham bill provisions could leave US navigating competing priorities: sustaining pressure on Moscow, containing domestic fuel costs and avoiding unnecessary trade disputes with major energy buyers. For India, the suspension offers immediate relief from a potentially damaging tariff escalation, but similar future threats have not disappeared.
The RBI has set the premature redemption price of SGB 2020-21 Series VII at 14,614 per gram. Investors can earn capital gains of 189.33% on offline purchases and 192.22% on online purchases. Here's what you need to know about the redemption date and interest rules.
Central government employees and pensioners are awaiting the July 2026 DA hike after the Cabinet made no announcement on 14 October. The next meeting on 21 October could bring an update, but the expected increase remains unconfirmed for now.
India Post has announced a 60-day Productivity Linked Bonus for eligible employees for 2025-26. The order covers MTS, Group C, non-gazetted Group B staff, Gramin Dak Sevaks and eligible casual labourers. Check eligibility, salary limits and how the bonus is calculated.
8th Pay Commission: What central government employees need to know about OPS, NPS and UPS
The 8th Pay Commission is hearing employee demands on pension reforms, including the restoration of OPS. Understand the differences between OPS, NPS and UPS, the government's stance on pension changes and what central government employees can expect next.
DA news: Key salary components explained We breakdown the differences between your DA, DR and HRA
Amid discussions over revisions for central government employee and pensioners' allowances and benefits, we breakdown difference between key salary components such as Dearness Allowance (DA), Dearness Relief (DR) and House Rent Allowance (HRA).
Elon Musk's Starlink responds to Reliance, says ready to connect India with high-speed internet
Starlink has said it is ready to provide high-speed internet services in India, asserting that it has spent over five years working with regulators, industry and operators and built dedicated infrastructure with the requisite government approvals. The Elon Musk-led company made the statement while tagging Reliance Industries' post on competition in satellite communications.
Bank holiday today: Today, banks will function as usual across most parts of India, with Tripura being the exception due to the Maha Saptami festivities. The Reserve Bank of India has outlined specific holidays for various October festivals, particularly affecting operations on the second and fourth Saturdays.
Apple is cutting production of the standard iPhone 17 for the Indian market following a more than 20% price increase, as demand weakens despite strong overseas sales. The company plans to redirect capacity towards exports, while demand for iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro models remains firm. Rising component costs, a weaker rupee and higher prices have prompted some Indian consumers to defer purchases or consider older and refurbished iPhones.
Reliance Industries welcomes Starlink competition while urging compliance with Indian laws
Reliance Industries expressed its openness to competition within India's satellite communications market. The company welcomed Starlinks entry while emphasizing the need for compliance with Indian regulations. Reliance stated that its satellite services are awaiting necessary government approvals for operations. Elon Musk claimed that oligarchs are blocking Starlink's entry into India, which Reliance addressed in its statement. Other satellite operators also continue to seek Indian government clearances to start their services.
HSBC has deployed more than half of its $1 billion loan commitment to Indian startups within a year of launching its innovation banking platform. The British lender has reported strong demand across consumer technology, e-commerce and enterprise software, and is open to increasing its funding allocation. HSBC Global Head of Innovation Banking David Sabow said the bank expects to add at least 500 clients in India over the next year.
NITI Aayog explores policies to boost India's medical and dental device manufacturing industry
NITI Aayog is exploring policy measures to improve the manufacturing capabilities of medical and dental devices in India. The meeting included domestic manufacturers, government officials, and experts from IIT Delhi and IIT Mumbai. Key challenges such as regulatory hurdles and cost disadvantages faced by Indian manufacturers were discussed extensively. The industry body AiMeD emphasized the need for simpler regulations and financial support for local manufacturers.
Indias 1,200-tonne gold refining industry could unlock new export opportunities through GIFT City, Gujarat, following the introduction of responsible sourcing and audit guidelines by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). The framework sets standards for refiners seeking Good Delivery accreditation to trade gold through the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX). The move aims to strengthen global confidence in Indian-refined gold through supply chain transparency, independent audits and stricter compliance requirements.
Peak power demand exceeds 250 GW through most of September
India's power sector planner recently said the country will require additional base load through conventional sources such as thermal power plants to meet the strong demand, along with renewable energy sources. Power consumption in September rose around 11% driven by cooling and irrigation requirements amid below-normal monsoon rainfall.
Maharashtras Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of 25 food establishments and four edible oil and spice manufacturing units during a statewide crackdown on food safety violations. Six Dominos Pizza outlets in Pune division were among those affected. The FDA also seized around 81,330 kg of suspected substandard, adulterated or mislabelled food products worth Rs 1.73 crore from 37 establishments across six divisions. Laboratory tests and further legal action are pending.
Motor insurers seek third-party premium deregulation, end to knock-for-knock pacts
In responses to the regulator's consultation paper on insurance distribution reforms, some industry participants said automobile manufacturers and dealers influence commissions, discounting and repair costs, which could blunt the impact of the proposed curbs on intermediary remuneration, according to people aware of the matter.
VPF allows salaried employees to invest beyond mandatory EPF contributions at the prevailing 8.25% interest rate. Understand the 2.5 lakh tax-free interest limit, tax on excess contributions and withdrawal rules before investing more for retirement.
Tanker attacks: 'All 24 Indian seafarers are safe'
Abakkus Flexi Cap Fund September portfolio: 35 stocks, including Groww and NTPC, see higher holdings
Abakkus Flexi Cap Fund raised its holdings in Groww, NTPC and HDFC Bank in September, added Zydus Lifesciences and exited Cyient DLM. It also trimmed positions in Divis Laboratories and Oracle Financial Services Software.
A 30% salary hike may look attractive, but tax, commuting and childcare costs can shrink the gain. An illustrative 18 lakh salary scenario shows how a 5.4 lakh raise could leave just 1.74 lakh in extra annual money.
Nitin Gadkari looks to Japan for roads in India
Karur Vysya Bank targets 18-20% credit growth in FY27, corporate lending capped at 20%
Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) aims for 18-20 percent growth in total advances for the fiscal year 2027. The bank focuses on retail, agriculture, and MSME lending, which constitutes 86 percent of its advances. Though corporate lending will be increased, high-value loans will be capped at 20 percent going forward. Gold loans are expected to see significant growth supported by lower borrowing costs.
Yes Bank weighs next steps after SC upholds verdict on AT-1 bond write-down
Yes Bank is examining the Supreme Court ruling regarding the write-down of Additional Tier-1 bonds. The Supreme Court upheld a prior Bombay High Court decision that quashed the bank's March 2020 action. Following the judgment, the bank is considering its legal options and future steps. The Reserve Bank of India and Yes Bank had previously appealed the High Court's ruling.
The AAIB has released a report following the accident involving VSR Ventures' Learjet 45XR in Mumbai. It noted serious injuries to all eight individuals onboard during the incident. Recommendations were made to the DGCA for pilot training checks and improving emergency protocols. The report highlighted the flight crew's failure to adhere to standard procedures which contributed to the accident.
India sets zero sugar diversion for ethanol in 2026/27 tender
India has instructed oil marketing companies to cease sugar diversion for ethanol production by the year 2026-27. This decision arises amid rising sugar prices and concerns over domestic sugar supply due to poor rainfall. Ethanol from sugarcane juice and other sugar-based feedstocks will not be included in the latest tender. The government aims to boost domestic sugar production and curb oil imports as part of its policies.
From lifespan to healthspan: How Abu Dhabi and India can make prevention practical
New modelling suggests that eliminating modifiable health risks could add 12 years to healthy life expectancy at birth by 2050. Realising even part of this potential will require making prevention part of everyday life.
Varroc Engineering to set up JV with French co Forsee Power to develop battery-pack solutions
Varroc Engineering has announced a joint venture with Forsee Power to develop battery-pack solutions for electric vehicles. The collaboration will begin with battery packs for three-wheelers, with plans to expand into other vehicle segments. Varroc will acquire a 45 percent stake in Forsee Powers Indian subsidiary. This venture aims to combine expertise in battery technology and manufacturing for scalable solutions.
Vodafone Idea appoints Manoj Murali as COO
Iveco shareholders approve Tata Motors takeover
RBI approves merger of Emirates NBD's India branches with RBL Bank
The Reserve Bank of India has approved the merger of Emirates NBD Bank's Indian branches with RBL Bank. This amalgamation will officially take effect on December 1, 2026, according to the central bank's announcement. Emirates NBD Bank initially opened its first Indian branch in Mumbai in 2017, expanding later to Gurugram and Chennai. The Finance Ministry had previously approved Emirates NBD's acquisition of a significant stake in RBL Bank.
HLL Lifecare launches eStore to expand direct-to-consumer reach
State-owned company HLL Lifecare launched HLL eStore, a digital platform aimed to expand access to its healthcare and wellness products across the country. The platform would be part of its broader digital transformation strategy, enabling customers, business partners and healthcare institutions to engage with the company through an integrated online marketplace. The eStore also offers medical products and supplies.
Lemon Tree Hotels announces signing of MoU with Omaxe for operating 4,000 keys
Carnation Hotels Private Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Omaxe Limited for a new hospitality venture. This partnership aims to operate 4,000 keys in key Indian destinations including travel and pilgrimage hotspots. The collaboration focuses on tier-two and tier-three cities to meet growing accommodation demands. Both companies bring extensive expertise in real estate development and hotel management.
Govt issues notification on PM CARES scholarship, spells out rules for children without Aadhaar
The government has notified Aadhaar verification rules for PM CARES for Children scholarship beneficiaries. Children cannot be denied benefits solely because authentication fails or they lack Aadhaar, subject to prescribed alternative identity-verification procedures.
Indian Railways has stepped up its crackdown on unauthorised drone operations over railway tracks, stations and other infrastructure, citing safety and security risks. The action follows a Kollam court ruling that fined a man and sentenced him to one day of community service for illegally flying a drone over a railway line. The move could affect vloggers and rail enthusiasts filming trains, bridges, tunnels and scenic routes for social media without the required permissions.
Ayush-related Intellectual Property activity has seen substantial growth, with over 4,000 patent applications from 2014 to 2026. The Ministry of Ayush emphasises the increasing participation of individuals and institutions in this sector. Patent filings peaked post-COVID, reflecting a focus on research and innovation. Natural persons and educational institutions contributed significantly to the total filings and grants. The government continues to foster an enabling environment for traditional knowledge and scientific research.
IGX gets PNGRB nod for LNG terminal capacity booking platform
Indian Gas Exchange has received regulatory approval to develop a capacity booking platform for LNG terminals. This platform aims to facilitate easier and more transparent access to terminal capacity for users. The regulator noted that many terminals experience poor capacity utilization currently. By using the platform, market participants can identify and book available regasification capacity efficiently. Contractual negotiations and settlements will still be managed directly between buyers and sellers involved.
