The Economic Times

Mozarts Requiem in D Minor, left unfinished at his death in 1791 and later completed chiefly by Franz Xaver Sssmayr, combines terror, grief and tenderness in a work inseparable from the mythology surrounding its creation. Neville Marriners 1977 recording is praised for keeping that darkness intimate rather than monumental, making the musics confrontation with death feel intensely human.

Indian travelers have significantly changed in their approach to leisure activities and cultural expressions abroad. The previous generations exhibited a more restrained manner of traveling and eating while interacting with local cultures. Recent travelers are observed to engage in spontaneous performances and communal meals regardless of the setting.

There is a vital influence of Chief Election Commissioners in shaping India's electoral landscape. It celebrates the pivotal efforts of CECs like TN Seshan, MS Gill, and JM Lyngdoh, whose actions tackled issues like disenfranchisement and electoral malfeasance. Meanwhile, Gyanesh Kumar's current leadership faces scrutiny amid ongoing debates regarding the effectiveness of the Election Commission. The evolution within the CEC's role underscores the shifting political currents in India.

The Allahabad High Court's infrequent full-court meetings have sparked concerns about their authenticity. Observers suggest these gatherings often feel scripted, undermining meaningful exchanges among judges. Justice Vinod Diwakar has called for genuine discussions, highlighting the court's failure to consistently conduct required quarterly meetings. This lack of accountability has fostered significant skepticism towards the court's administrative practices.

The EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism is set to reshape global trade dynamics by prioritizing carbon intensity. Indian exporters must strategize for compliance that extends beyond the current focus on iron and steel. The Indian government is actively supporting small and medium enterprises in achieving these new sustainability benchmarks. To navigate this transition successfully, enhanced funding for carbon accounting and technological advancements is essential.

In todays fast-paced world, people are often too busy to pause and comfort those who are hurting. Yet, kind and reassuring words can offer immediate emotional relief to someone in distress.

Indias unincorporated sector is highly concentrated but varies sharply across districts, according to the first district-level estimates from MoSPIs ASUSE 2025.

India is starved of good, accessible public libraries. There are officially 46,746 public libraries across states and UTs. The number may sound impressive. But spread across a country of 1.4 bn with numerous languages - and with the condition of most of them, at best, merely functional - the story of libraries in India is hardly a page-turner. But there's an unmet demand. In Karnataka, public library programmes are getting youngsters back to reading through read-aloud sessions, storytelling and

AI has set off this cat and mouse game, and it will find ways to improve on the job it has on hand - finding the right candidate. AI-driven video screening is rapidly improving to evaluate communication style, technical competence and role alignment. Algorithms can do a much better job than human recruiters in multi-dimensional evaluation because of the data they can process. And while at it, AI will become smart enough to identify candidates who want to outsmart the system.

M K Gandhi demonstrated five significant leadership qualities that united people during India's struggle for independence. He had a compelling vision for a free and self-reliant nation that inspired many individuals. His integrity earned the trust of his followers, fostering strong connections. Gandhi's empathetic approach allowed him to bridge divides and understand differing perspectives. His strategic execution of protests and movements highlighted his ability to mobilize large-scale organiza

Ahimsa, as conceptualized by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, shifts power dynamics away from violence to legitimacy. Non-violent resistance complicates the ruling entities' ability to maintain social order without perceived respectability. While Gandhi's methods achieved varied results, they expanded the strategies available to political movements. The effectiveness of ahimsa extends beyond mere philosophy to practical applications in modern governance.

Bond markets are imposing fiscal discipline on governments as borrowing levels increase amid geopolitical tensions and rising inflation. Central banks are raising interest rates in response to inflation, affecting global growth and emerging economies, including India. Domestic challenges, such as erratic monsoons, complicate the financial landscape within India. Indian equities are facing significant selling pressure despite domestic household savings investing in them.

Petting animals creates a peaceful connection that promotes well-being in both humans and animals. Research shows that interacting with pets increases oxytocin levels while reducing cortisol, a stress marker. Engaging with animals can lead to a calm state of mind, affecting heart rate and blood pressure positively.

Narendra Modi and Donald Trump discussed trade, energy, and defense, focusing on Russian oil sanctions. India is concerned about the economic impact of potential tariffs on its energy purchases. Both countries must consider their strategic relationship amid differing national interests and economic realities.

National Teetotalitarian Day serves as a dedicated 24-hour opportunity for individuals to embrace sobriety, emphasizing the importance of responsible choices and financial prudence. By choosing to forgo alcohol, participants can steer clear of avoidable errors and complications, thereby enhancing both personal and collective financial well-being. Following this day, National No-Hangover Day will commemorate wise decision-making, allowing everyone to reap the rewards of clarity and keen judgment.

For effective CEO succession planning, organizations must adopt a strategic, long-term approach, rather than merely reacting to circumstances. Initiating the process several years prior allows boards to identify and nurture promising candidates. Engaging the entire board ensures a fact-based decision-making process, which values the potential of internal talent alongside external recruitment. Ultimately, robust succession planning fortifies an organizations adaptability and resilience for future

M K Gandhi's reflections titled 'A Thought For the Day' achieved a significant price of 6.2 cr at auction. These thoughts were initially intended for his associate Anand Hingorani to provide personal guidance. Gandhi established key themes such as Truth, ahimsa, and self-regulation in his reflections. His authority stemmed from his rejection of power, influencing many through his living example of moral conduct.

Jazz music has gained recognition and sovereign status due to its unique history and influential musicians. Unlike Jazz, various music forms from countries like India are grouped under the term 'world music'. This categorization reflects how people perceive their own musical traditions and cultural significance. If regional music genres like bhangra were more influential, they might receive similar recognition to Jazz.

RBI has maintained its policy rate at 5.25% but is facing significant inflation pressures. Retail inflation has risen above the target of 4%, indicating the need for action. Food and fuel inflation are increasing, contributing to overall economic effects. Additionally, external factors, including global interest rates, add to the urgency for a rate hike. Thus, effective monetary policy adjustments are crucial in the current economic context.

ITC Infotech's merger with Happiest Minds highlights the trend of mid-market consolidation in response to AI advancements. The global IT market faces challenges, requiring companies to adopt AI-centric capabilities for survival. Enterprises are burdened with legacy systems, which present both challenges and opportunities for funding technological transformations. Companies will need to adapt to the evolving landscape by integrating AI into existing frameworks effectively.

High global diesel prices are impacting government-owned refiners who maintain frozen retail prices for domestic customers. Private refiners like Nayara and Reliance are benefiting from these prices thanks to their dominance in exports. The disparity in diesel prices has created an avenue for diversion between market segments. Government-owned refiners face challenges managing surging demand at fuel pumps amid high crude oil costs.

Konoba Zijavica is a seafood restaurant located in the fishing village of Moscenicka Draga. Chef-owner Stiven Vunic uses fresh seafood from his family's fishing background. The menu changes based on the daily catch and features local Adriatic flavors. Highlights include Kvarner langoustines, grandmother's langoustine risotto, and creative dishes like scampi tartare.

Indian corporations are making bold strides abroad, with Essar establishing a massive $15 billion steel complex in Iowa. Notable companies such as Tata Motors and Reliance are also venturing into international markets across diverse sectors. However, the declining investments from mid-level Indian firms raise concerns about potential impacts on employment and economic growth at home. The ongoing debate is whether Globalisation 2.

India is facing challenges in managing foreign remittances, particularly concerning fraudulent transactions and proper certification. A proposed solution includes establishing a designated certification professional class to enhance accountability and quality. Introducing a pre-remittance window could allow better risk assessments and reduce fraudulent activities.

Britain recognised India's Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) as a qualifying carbon-pricing mechanism under its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), thus joining an established club of recognised carbon-pricing jurisdictions. The recognition, however, doesn't automatically strengthen India's efforts to achieve equivalence with existing or future carbon border adjustment mechanisms. However, it demonstrates the value of sustained technical engagement in addressing complex issues in a mutu

Mixed-gender teams could introduce a new dimension to sports such as cricket, hockey, and football. Athletes like Smriti Mandhana and Virat Kohli could showcase their skills in a combined team. The concept challenges traditional views that separate men and women in competitive sports. Philosophical perspectives, like those from Vedanta, highlight the essence of human identity beyond physicality. Engaging in mixed-gender sports could represent a progressive step towards equality and inclusivity.

The GST Council is set to reconvene after a year to focus on reforming the input tax credit system. Recent surveys by KPMG and Deloitte highlighted the need for structural changes to alleviate business burdens. Blockages in the current GST system affect costs for domestic producers, making imports more competitive. A single-rate structure may be a long-term solution to these challenges.

Doomscrolling offers a distraction from personal problems by focusing on major global issues. It allows individuals to escape unmanageable stressors in their lives. Engaging with content about crises can provide temporary relief and pleasure. While moderation is important, it can serve as an inexpensive way to cope. Following challenging narratives can make personal worries feel less significant.

The Supreme Court will hear a plea challenging Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's authority and decisions. The petition questions whether the Election Commission acted collectively with its three-member panel. Reports indicate that two commissioners raised multiple objections regarding decisions made by the Election Commission. Concerns have emerged regarding the credibility and trustworthiness of the electoral process, prompting calls for a pause in the SIR exercise.

Hotels with History is a captivating podcast exploring the storied past of luxury hotels worldwide. In this episode, the spotlight is on The Copacabana Palace, a stunning Art Deco marvel in Rio de Janeiro. Hosts Jules Perowne and Richard E Grant uncover the hotel's role during Brazil's political transitions and analyze its architectural grandeur. Ideal for fans of history, design, and upscale travel experiences.

Public trust in the electoral process is being eroded, significantly linked to the implementation of SIR. Recent surveys indicate that the perception of free and fair elections has deteriorated markedly among the populace. Furthermore, the exclusion of millions from electoral rolls raises significant concerns regarding electoral integrity. Allegations of bias and irregularities in the Election Commission's operations have intensified the scrutiny of the SIR process.

Investors are often encouraged to maintain their investments without reacting to market changes. However, substantial evidence suggests that pausing contributions under certain conditions can be prudent. Historical findings indicate that investors who blindly follow strategies may suffer significant losses.

Bees demonstrate a strong sense of social responsibility without any formal laws or teachings. In contrast, human societies possess extensive legal frameworks yet struggle with cooperation and empathy. The neglect of basic human needs like love and kindness contributes to this issue. A sense of responsibility can only emerge from developing genuine compassion for others. Fostering these values is crucial for enhancing social harmony and cooperation.

Delhis early pollution-control measures ahead of winter, including higher parking charges, staggered office timings, 50% work-from-home and restrictions on construction, signal a shift towards prevention. However, tackling Delhi-NCRs toxic winter air will require stronger enforcement, particularly around Diwali, and a wider airshed-based strategy covering vehicles, construction, dust, industry and biomass burning across the region.

The IRDAI's move to tighten commission caps in India's insurance sector has sparked considerable attention. Despite previous regulatory attempts, gaps in the system have allowed questionable practices to thrive amongst distributors. The latest adjustments aim for enhanced transparency and robust consumer safeguards. Consequently, the sustainability and credibility of the insurance industry are now being critically assessed by stakeholders.

Significant price differences in healthcare consumables have drawn attention, prompting calls for better consumer protection. Maharashtra's FDA has uncovered alarming disparities, highlighting information asymmetry faced by patients. The Supreme Court reaffirmed consumer accountability for medical services, emphasizing the need for transparency. Consumers are encouraged to ask questions and take advantage of available grievance mechanisms. Strengthening enforcement and data-sharing among regulat

Sebis new 2026 PMS regulations are set to widen the investment options available to portfolio management services firms, allowing them to invest in mutual funds, SIFs, unlisted debt, IPOs and other market instruments. The move also lowers the entry threshold to Rs 25 lakh for PMS portfolios made exclusively of MFs and ETFs, potentially giving retail investors greater access to customised portfolio management and advice.

The piece humorously argues that nicknames could make powerful people feel less intimidating and more human. Calling CEOs, presidents and officials Bunty, Guddu or Chintu would puncture their grandeur without removing respect.

Indias power grid is emerging as a strategic counter to Chinas Belt and Road push in South Asia. Indias ability to buy large quantities of electricity makes its market crucial for neighbours such as Nepal and Bhutan. While China funds power projects, India provides the revenue through electricity imports.

Removing key AI leaders such as Elon Musk and Sam Altman could disrupt the entire AI industry profoundly. These leaders oversee companies with a combined market value of approximately $18.6 trillion as of now. Their innovative projects in AI have enormous potential to impact multiple sectors and advance human progress.

In Nepal, the tragic aftermath of flash floods has claimed more than fourteen hundred lives, while over six thousand people are still missing. The Bhotekoshi River's relentless torrents have obliterated homes and critical infrastructure. Rescuers face immense hurdles in identifying the deceased, as DNA testing becomes indispensable for confirming victims after their extended time submerged in water.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince met Egypt's President seeking support against Houthi rebel attacks. These attacks threaten vital shipping lanes and Saudi oil infrastructure significantly. The Houthi advances have also intensified the conflict within Yemen itself. Egypt's backing offers political influence and international rallying for Saudi Arabia. The kingdom faces difficult choices regarding military action or diplomatic solutions.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar identified six pivotal issues for India's diplomacy. India's growing global influence and responsibilities are increasing significantly. Diplomacy must adapt to global talent flow and rapid digital evolution. Engagement with the Global South and civilisational identity are crucial.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated India has entered a new era of performance politics. He said corruption, casteism, and dynastic politics have ended since 2014. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has freed the country from policy paralysis and poor decision-making. A campaign called 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' will promote public participation for a developed India. This initiative marks Modi's birthday and significant years of his governance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday reaffirmed the need for a strategic, long-term perspective in India-China ties, with Modi stressing that peace and tranquillity along the frontier remain essential. The leaders also discussed border agreements, trade imbalances, supply chains, market access and a fair resolution of the boundary question.

Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed BRICS as an influential cooperation platform. He urged the grouping to play a role in West Asian peace. Xi also called for strengthened cooperation in AI and global governance. BRICS countries should lead in innovative development and maintaining stability. The bloc aims to steer the international order toward greater justice and equity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a notable moment with leaders at the BRICS Summit. He was pictured holding hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Other leaders including Iran's President and South Africa's President also joined them. Modi engaged in discussions with leaders from Russia, China, and Indonesia. India hosted the BRICS Summit for member and partner countries.

President Xi Jinping will visit India for the BRICS summit and bilateral talks. China urges handling differences and viewing ties from a strategic perspective. This meeting follows previous engagements between the two leaders. The BRICS summit is a key platform for emerging market cooperation. Xi's visit aims to stabilize bilateral ties amid global volatility.