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The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) suspended operations at a railway base kitchen in Lucknow and cancelled the food registration of an establishment in Saharanpur after inspections uncovered food safety and hygiene lapses. The drive covered 41 railway catering units and two airline food suppliers. Officials seized 978 kg of unlabeled food items in Kanpur Nagar and collected 26 samples for laboratory testing.
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
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.
Home loan borrower alert: SBI, PNB, Bank of India and other banks revise repo-linked lending rates
FSSAI issues notices to BigBasket, Flipkart, Gemini Edibles over misleading claims
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India issued notices to three companies for misleading health claims. Gemini Edibles & Fats India, as well as e-commerce platforms BigBasket and Flipkart India, were implicated. The claims regarding cholesterol and health benefits of rice bran oil do not comply with regulations. Furthermore, Gemini was found to lack a valid license for e-commerce activities.
India is fastest-growing polymer compound market, expected to grow to USD 16 bn by 2031: Crisil
India is becoming the fastest-growing polymer compound market globally, contributing 13 percent of a USD 75 billion industry. The market is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 16.5 billion by FY2031. Demand from the automotive and infrastructure sectors is driving this growth, alongside technological advancements in manufacturing. Significant expansion in electricity networks and pipelines is projected to fuel demand further.
India needs 2.6 billion sq ft of healthcare space by 2035, says CBRE
India requires an expansion of its healthcare infrastructure with an additional 2.6 billion sq ft by 2035. This need arises due to an expected demand for nearly 2.9 million more hospital beds nationwide. Current statistics show India has only 1.6 hospital beds per 1,000 people, significantly less than the global average. Certain states face much lower hospital bed density compared to their disease burden, indicating unmet healthcare needs.
Ray Dalios All Weather portfolio returned 9.9% annually over 15 years in India, compared with 10.4% for a 60:40 portfolio and 12% for the Nifty 500 TRI. However, it had lower volatility and a smaller peak-to-trough fall, highlighting the trade-off between returns and risk.
Aurum PropTech Q2 income rises 57% to Rs 137 crore
Aurum PropTech announced a 57% increase in total income during the second quarter of FY27. This growth is attributed to improved profitability and the integration of artificial intelligence systems. The adjusted operating margin showed a significant increase, reaching 11.5%, marking a positive trend. Additionally, the company's various platforms reported strong performance and enhanced revenue productivity from AI initiatives.
Leading mutual fund houses such as Tata Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund have suspended fresh investments in their gold fund-of-funds. The halt comes as a response to macroeconomic factors affecting gold imports and the value of the rupee. Existing investments in these funds remain unaffected, allowing ongoing systematic plans to continue. New investors now have alternative options for gold exposure, including direct investments in Gold ETFs.
MINI Cooper Oxford Edition specifications: MINI has launched the Cooper Oxford Edition in India at Rs 55.50 lakh (ex-showroom) on Friday, October 16, celebrating 25 years of modern MINI production at Plant Oxford in the UK. Available in limited quantities, the special edition features Union Jack-inspired styling, two exterior colour options, JCW sport seats, a 240mm circular OLED touchscreen and a 204 hp petrol engine. Bookings are open at authorised MINI India dealerships, with deliveries commencing immediately.
Federal Bank appoints Cognizants Rajesh Varrier as independent director
Federal Bank has appointed Rajesh Varrier as a non-executive independent director on its board. This decision follows the announcement of the bank's impressive financial results for the September quarter. Varrier previously served as president of global operations at Cognizant and brings extensive management experience. The bank reported a significant rise in net profit and net interest income in comparison to last year.
Will flyers get relief? Centre finalises aviation rules as SC examines steep airfares
Centre has received administrative approval for rules under the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, and expects to publish them within two weeks, the Supreme Court was informed on Friday. The court is hearing a plea seeking independent aviation regulation, greater passenger protection and safeguards against unpredictable airfares and ancillary charges.
EPFO WhatsApp channel: Can you access EPF, EPS and EDLI services? How to join
EPFO has introduced a new WhatsApp channel to keep subscribers informed about its schemes and services, attracting around two lakh users so far. The channel provides insights into the Employees Provident Fund, Employees Pension Scheme, and Employees Deposit Linked Insurance.
Omaxe ties up with Lemon Tree Hotels for 10 projects with 4,000 keys
Omaxe Ltd has signed an MOU with Carnation Hotels, a subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels, for new hotel projects. This collaboration will focus on developing ten hotels in various key Indian cities, totaling about 4,000 keys. The projects will require an estimated investment of Rs 4,000 crore, with timelines ranging from nine months to five years. Omaxe plans to fund the developments through sales proceeds, avoiding loan funding.
Missed a gold loan EMI? An overdue payment does not automatically mean your pledged jewellery will be auctioned. Understand the RBI framework, how lenders handle defaults, the notice process, and what borrowers can do to reclaim their gold before it is sold.
Shoppers Stop same-store sales growth slows on delayed festive season
Shoppers Stop reported a slowdown in second-quarter same-store sales growth as a delayed festive season weighed on store traffic, sending its shares down 5.4%. Same-store sales growth fell to 2% from 6% in the previous quarter, although the retailer posted a net profit and an 8.7% rise in operating revenue.
Comfort over style: 52% of young Indians prioritise ease when buying festive footwear, study finds
A recent survey reveals that comfort tops the list of priorities for young Indian consumers when selecting festive footwear. Approximately 58.1% of participants intend to spend under Rs 2,000 on their buys. Ethnic styles maintain their appeal, with 30.3% favoring this category, despite evolving fashion trends. Both discounts and overall shopping experiences significantly sway purchasing choices, while only 46.2% of high-intent shoppers plan to include footwear in their festive shopping.
Man earning 3,500 a month faced 1.46 crore tax demand; how ITAT Mumbai came to his rescue
ITAT Mumbai quashed a 1.46 crore reassessment against a man who said he earned 3,500 a month, ruling that the tax department failed to establish valid service of the notice. The tribunal did not decide whether the disputed transactions were genuine.
Pvt engg, medical colleges can't hike fees: SC
Cement companies to see strong volumes in Q2 but fuel costs may weigh on margins
Cement companies are gearing up for a promising September 2026 quarter, with expectations of significant volume growth fueled by heightened demand and new capacity. Despite this optimistic outlook, profitability may take a hit due to escalating operating costs, especially in fuel. Ultratech Cement and JK Cement are anticipated to shine in volume performance, while necessary price increases for cement bags will help mitigate rising expenses.
Can a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP build a Rs 2 crore corpus? Check how long it may take
A Rs 10,000 monthly mutual fund SIP could build a Rs 2 crore corpus in 25 years and six months at 12% annual returns. Increasing contributions annually by 5% or 10% could shorten the timeline to 22 years and nine months or 20 years and one month, respectively.
Railway panel picks 21 issues for review in 2026-27
Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund: Kalyan Jewellers, MCX, Paytm among top 10 stock holdings in September
Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund held an AUM of Rs 1.70 lakh crore across 93 funds as of September 30, 2026. According to a report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services, One 97 Communications, Eternal, Kalyan Jewellers, MCX, and Sterlite Technologies featured among the fund house's top 10 equity portfolio holdings.
If you only own Indian stocks, what are you missing?
Indian investors may hold stocks across several companies yet remain concentrated in a single market. With India accounting for around 3% of global equity market capitalisation in May 2026, international investing offers a broader opportunity set. The key is understanding diversification, currency risk, investment routes and how overseas exposure fits individual financial goals.
Sunil Singhania-founded Abakkus Flexi Cap Fund increased holdings in Reliance Industries, HDFC Bank, Groww and 32 other stocks in September. The fund also added Zydus Lifesciences, exited Cyient DLM and trimmed stakes in two stocks.
How meaningful business conversations connect brands with the right decision-makers
In a changing business environment, reaching the right decision-makers takes more than visibility. The right platforms can help brands share expertise, build industry relationships and explore new business opportunities.
Ripple Partners With Cross River to Integrate RLUSD Into Core Banking Platforms
Ripple and Cross River Bank have partnered to integrate the RLUSD stablecoin into the banks Core Operating System, enabling fintech clients to move between US dollars and RLUSD through existing banking infrastructure. The service will use the XRP Ledger for blockchain transactions and connect with established payment rails. Cross River says the integration could support faster settlement, international transfers, and treasury management outside conventional banking hours.
Festive demand drives India's diesel sales in October, data shows
Indian diesel consumption has risen significantly, driven by increased demand from the agriculture and transportation sectors. State-run fuel retailers continue to maintain fuel prices below market rates, which attracts consumers. In contrast, private retailers have increased their prices and are exporting fuels. The ongoing festival season has led to heightened purchases by wholesalers to build inventory. Diesel is also being used to generate electricity due to rising power demand.
Indian Railways has announced 3,548 graduate-level NTPC vacancies across four categories. Applications are open till 6 November 2026. Selection includes two computer-based tests, document verification and medical examination.
NRI capital gains tax: When can you use the basic exemption limit to lower your income tax bill?
For non-resident Indians, leveraging the basic exemption limit can help mitigate normal slab rate taxes on capital gains. However, it's important to note that this exemption does not apply to capital gains taxed at special rates, such as short-term capital gains derived from listed bonds. This stipulation is clearly defined in the Income Tax law, and tax treaties may additionally offer advantages depending on the NRI's country of residence.
Vedanta Power and Cupid among top 5 smallcap stocks that saw highest mutual fund buying in September
Five smallcap stocks saw the highest net buying by mutual funds in September, according to Motilal Oswal Financial Services. Cupid led the list, with a 337.7% month-on-month rise in value change, followed by Bharat Coking, Vedanta Power, Godawari Power and Natco Pharma.
India's financial assets have grown sharply since 2020, with mutual fund AUM, bank deposits, and equity holdings rising. But does this reflect wider market participation or growing wealth among existing investors? Zerodha's Nithin Kamath raises questions about who benefits.
Retirement planning can combine savings with investments and systematic withdrawal plans to provide a regular income. Here's how you can ensure a 50,000 monthly income from your investment after retirement.
Indias clean power firms prepare for an AI-fuelled data center demand surge
India is preparing to accommodate increased demand for renewable energy from data centers driven by artificial intelligence. The country's appeal is strengthened by challenges faced by data center operations in other regions. Investments in solar and wind capacity are crucial for supporting this burgeoning sector's needs. Major companies such as Meta, Google, and Apple are entering into supply contracts for renewable energy.
Jindal Steel arm commissions Phase-I cargo terminal in Odisha
The start of commercial operations in Paradip will help Jindal Steel secure dedicated long-term access to the port
ICICI Bank Q2 Results Preview: PAT, NII may rise up to 21% YoY; margins, deposit growth in focus
ICICI Bank is expected to report 15.8-18% year-on-year growth in net interest income and 15-21% growth in profit after tax in Q2FY27, according to brokerage estimates. Investors will track net interest margins, loan and deposit growth, operating profitability and asset quality, with margin pressure and provisioning trends remaining key monitorables.
Gold prices at various leading jewellery outlets showed no fluctuation on October 16, 2026, staying steady compared to the previous day. Nevertheless, indicative prices for gold and silver jewellery surged according to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association.
Delhi property tax: Check SUNIYO 2.0 benefits, eligibility and how to apply by 31 December
Havent paid your Delhi property tax regularly or have years of outstanding dues? The MCDs SUNIYO 2.0 scheme offers eligible property owners and occupiers a chance to settle their dues with significant relief. Heres how to apply before the 31 December deadline.
The Eternal SBI Card offers 10% instant discount for spends on Zomato, Bistro, District, and eligible spends on Blinkit. Cardholders also earn 5% cashback with partners including Uber, ixigo, Urban Company, and Apollo.
As SBI home loan rates rise, how you can save more
Mutual funds bar fresh investments in Gold ETF FoFs. What are the rules for existing SIP investors?
Seventeen mutual fund houses have temporarily restricted fresh investments in specified gold exchange-traded fund-of-funds (FoFs), including lumpsum contributions, new SIPs and switch-ins. Existing SIPs and redemptions generally remain permitted, subject to scheme-specific conditions.
World Bank has a $19 billion gameplan to expand its critical minerals business in five years
World Bank President Ajay Banga has set a target to quintuple the lenders critical minerals business over five years, with financing projected to rise to $19 billion in FY26-FY30 from $3.6 billion in the previous five years. The bank has identified 20 countries for partnerships to build local industries and create jobs.
Indias IPO league table: How the largest listings opened
Jio Platforms is set to launch its IPO bidding on October 21, offering 27 crore shares without any offer for sale. The price band is set between 1,065 and 1,119 per share, targeting a total of 30,213 crore. Following recent IPOs like Hyundai and LIC, which struggled below their original prices, market sentiment is now emphasizing profitability. Analysts will closely monitor Jio's listing amid this competitive landscape.
Supreme Court asks Centre to submit final airfare rules by November 16
The Supreme Court has mandated that the government submit finalized rules regarding airline fare regulations within a month. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that these rules are anticipated to be published shortly. Previously, the civil aviation ministry reported that airlines were not adhering to fare directives. This public interest litigation highlights concerns about arbitrary airline pricing affecting travelers.
Tata Chemicals gets relief in 908 crore arbitration case, directed to pay 1 crore plus interest
In a significant ruling, a Mumbai Centre for International Arbitration tribunal has turned down a 908-crore claim aimed at Tata Chemicals. The tribunal instructed Tata to compensate Allied Silica and its head with a payment of 1 crore, with a dissenting opinion from one member. Tata Chemicals is currently assessing the implications of the tribunal's award from October 15, 2026, as it strategizes its next steps.
Home loan EMI: How much salary do you need for a 50 lakh, 75 lakh or 1 crore home?
Home loan EMI: Buying a home worth 50 lakh, 75 lakh or 1 crore requires careful financial planning. Experts explain the monthly salary needed to manage home loan EMIs, along with the down payment, upfront costs and other expenses buyers should consider before taking a loan.
From building wealth in the AI age and identifying investment opportunities to protecting assets, planning for retirement and transferring wealth across generations, Day 1 of ET Wealth Expo 2026 will bring together leading financial experts to explore the three pillars of long-term wealth management: Build, Protect and Legacy.
A man from Sikar faced a penalty of Rs 3.99 lakh for under-reporting his income. The Income Tax Department initiated penalty proceedings after he filed an income tax return. However, the ITAT Jaipur found technical mistakes in the penalty notice issued by the Assessing Officer. They noted the absence of specified violation under Section 270A(9) in the penalty proceedings. Consequently, the penalty was quashed, providing full relief to the taxpayer.
Central govt annual bonus: Wholl get & who wont
Multi-asset allocation funds and omni FoFs offer exposure to multiple asset classes, but their returns can differ significantly. A comparison of their asset allocation and underlying holdings shows how the investment strategies of these two categories differ.
Indian Super League records 65 million YouTube views in opening week
The Indian Super League experienced a remarkable 65 million YouTube views in its opening week. Five matches reached a total of 52 million viewers, with NorthEast United FC versus Mohun Bagan Super Giant leading in popularity. The opening match featured Bengaluru FC against Sporting Club Delhi and attracted 8.9 million views. The league gained 120,000 new subscribers during this period, totaling 2.7 million subscribers.
ITR mistakes: When does the income tax penalty rise to 200% and how does it differ from late fees?
Income tax return errors do not automatically attract a 200% penalty. Under the Income-tax Act, 2025, under-reporting can attract a penalty of 50% of the tax payable on the under-reported income, while misreporting can attract 200%. Here's how the rules, late-filing fees and interest work.
8th Pay Commission: Will central government employees get arrears from January 2026?
The 8th Pay Commission has 18 months from its constitution in November 2025 to submit its report. With 1 January 2026 emerging as a possible effective date, here's what previous Pay Commissions reveal about salary revisions, implementation timelines and arrears.
Around 17 mutual fund houses have temporarily halted fresh subscriptions to gold ETF Fund of Funds from October 1516, citing SEBI-related instructions or unspecified reasons. Redemptions and existing systematic investments continue, amid rising gold ETF inflows and seasonal festive demand ahead of Dussehra and Diwali.
Carnelian Mutual Fund has launched its new Carnelian Small Cap Fund, now available for investors. Targeting a size cap of Rs 5,000 crore, this fund seeks to preserve investment flexibility while focusing on small-cap stocks with strong growth potential at fair prices. It employs an in-depth research strategy to uncover viable businesses and attractively valued opportunities.
Best aggressive hybrid mutual funds to invest in October 2026
As per Sebi norms, these schemes must invest 65-80% in stocks, and 20-35% in debt. This mixed portfolio helps to deal with the market volatility better. When the equity market is in turmoil, the debt part of the portfolio softens the blow. This helps new investors to continue with their investments without worrying too much about volatility.
8th pay commission: Constituted in November 2025 Almost a year later, check key updates so far
The 8th CPC is consulting employees, pensioners and other stakeholders before submitting recommendations on pay, allowances, benefits and pensions. Its report is due by May 2027. A year since constitution, here are the key updates
Reliance says Starlink welcome, but all players must follow Indian laws
Reliance Industries stated that it welcomes competition, including Starlink, in the satellite communications sector. The company emphasized the need for all players to comply with Indian laws and regulations. Reliance noted that its satellite services are also awaiting necessary approvals. Elon Musk raised concerns about competition being hindered by oligarchs in India. The communications ministry reaffirmed the requirement for security compliance prior to spectrum assignment.
No health insurance but a personal medical fund: How good is this idea?
As medical treatment costs soar, should you rely solely on health insurance or build your own personal medical fund? This article explores the benefits and drawbacks of each approach, emphasising the importance of starting early and considering a combined strategy. Learn how to manage healthcare costs effectively and protect your financial future.
Gold and silver prices today, 16 October: 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.
Liability-only car insurance in India: Coverage, exclusions and claim documents
India's Balance of Payments (BoP) is turning positive, but it is likely to remain lower than earlier expectations as elevated oil prices and an expanding non-oil, non-gold deficit weigh on the external trade position, according to a research report by ICICI Bank Global Markets.
DA news: Himachal Pradesh to release dearness allowance installment for Diwali? CM Sukhu says...
DA news update: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the state government is considering releasing a Dearness Allowance (DA) instalment on Diwali this year. Here's what we know
Bandhan AMCs Suyash Choudhary on RBI rate hikes, bond yields, and debt strategy
Bandhan AMCs Suyash Choudhary explains how rising rates affect savers, why investors should keep debt portfolio duration short, and how to balance yield, credit quality and currency risk.
Britannia Share Price Live Updates: Britannia's Current Market Position
Jio IPO: Reliances newest listing meets a market its 1977 investors wouldnt recognise
Jio is set to enter a competitive market with its IPO, which marks Reliance's first offering since 2006. The shift from physical share certificates to demat accounts has greatly streamlined investor experiences over the years. Investors will benefit from reforms that include blocked amounts and faster listing times. The proposed IPO will cater to a considerably larger base of individual investors than previous offerings.
Sun Pharma Share Price Live Updates: Sun Pharma's Price Movement Today
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Hindalco Share Price Live Updates: Hindalco Stock Details
Reliance Industries expressed its openness to competition in the satellite broadband market, including Starlink. The company emphasized the need for all players to adhere to the same regulatory processes and laws. Reliance stated that it has never shied away from competition, drawing parallels to its own entry into the telecom sector. Jio has established a significant customer base by providing affordable digital services throughout India.
NTPC Share Price Live Updates: NTPC's Current Trading Price
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