Economy / The Economic Times
India's new labour codes aim to simplify regulations, reduce compliance burdens, and enhance worker welfare. These reforms are expected to boost competitiveness by offering greater flexibility in hiring and overtime, potentially attracting more domestic and foreign investment into manufacturing and services.
Whoopi Goldberg recently disclosed about her absence from The View, sharing on Instagram that she is now in Italy working on a fresh acting project. She confirmed on the shows podcast that she has become part of the cast of the Italian soap opera Un Posto Al Sole, marking a new creative direction after hosting The View since 2007.
Who is Marjorie Taylor Greene and why has she resigned from US Congress? Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation effective January 5, 2026. Greene cited conflicts in Washington, a rift with Donald Trump, and her plans to end the H-1B visa program as key reasons for leaving her seat.
India, Australia and Canada have agreed to establish a new trilateral technology and innovation alliance, the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation (ACITI) Partnership. The three countries will expand cooperation on critical and emerging technologies, complementing existing bilateral efforts.
Scientists have found a huge 900-meter-wide asteroid crater in Guangdong Province, China, three times more massive than the previously largest called Holocene crater. Despite the areas severe rainfall and humid weather, the structure continued to be well preserved, enabling researchers to confirm it as a meteorite impact. They detected shock-produced planar deformation features in quartz, giving evidence of its extraterrestrial origin.
Indologist Lalit Mishra's groundbreaking discovery has brought Ayodhya's ancient flag back to its rightful place. Mishra stumbled upon the flag while studying a painting from the pictorial Ramayana of Mewar, later confirming its mention in Valmiki Ramayana's Ayodhya Kand.
Laughter Chefs returns for Season 3 with Bharti Singh, promising bigger chaos and more laughs as celebrities cook and compete. The new episodes drop weekly, featuring unpredictable recipes, pranks, and returning fan favourites like Karan Kundrra and Elvish Yadav. Read on to know when and where to watch it online.
Laura Loomer, a devoted Trump supporter and self-proclaimed proud Islamophobe, lashed out online after President Donald Trump met New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani in the Oval Office. Loomer criticized the meeting, repeating her accusations about Mamdani and questioning why the Trump administration didnt condemn him more firmly. In contrast, Trump adopted a diplomatic note, admiring their productive discussion and showing willingness to cooperate.
Veteran actor Helen, at 87, celebrated her birthday with a disciplined workout, showcasing that fitness knows no age. Her routine, featuring five low-impact Pilates exercises that has helped her regain mobility and strength, proving consistency and positivity transform health at any stage of life. Read on to know more about it.
The government plans to introduce a bill in the upcoming Winter session to raise FDI in the insurance sector to 100%, aiming to deepen penetration and boost growth. Amendments to the Insurance Act, 1938, LIC Act 1956, and IRDA Act 1999 are also proposed to strengthen financial security and encourage market entry.
Guwahati celebrated its inaugural Comic Con India on November 22, marking a significant debut for the Northeast's creative community. The event featured renowned artists like Bill Golliher and Tadam Gyadu, alongside engaging creator sessions, performances, and a vibrant cosplay contest. The enthusiastic turnout underscored the region's rich talent and passion for pop culture.
A Booth Level Officer (BLO) in West Bengal's Nadia district allegedly committed suicide due to work pressure from the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, blaming the Election Commission. This marks the third such death since SIR began, prompting shock from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and calls for investigation. BLOs report immense pressure from miscommunication, workload, and server issues.
The government has listed the Securities Markets Code Bill 2025 for the upcoming Winter session of Parliament. This unified code aims to merge key securities laws, including the Sebi Act, Depositories Act, and Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act. Experts anticipate it will enhance ease of doing business, reduce compliance costs, and boost the credibility of government borrowings.
Nutrition experts say cottage cheese may be one of the most effective everyday foods for maintaining strong bones, according to a report in Prevention. As bone loss accelerates after age 50, experts highlight key nutrients such as calcium, Vitamin D, magnesium, Vitamin K, and protein. Cottage cheese provides all of these, along with selenium and magnesium, which support bone density. Specialists note that adding it to meals can significantly aid long-term bone health.
In 2026, Medicare Part B premiums will rise to $202.90 a month, reducing the Social Security COLA for many retirees. The average cost-of-living increase of $56 could drop to about $38 after the Part B payment. Low-income retirees may see little or no gain due to the hold harmless provision, while high-income households pay even more for Part B.
Netflix's global hit Squid Game is expanding with an American spin-off. Filming begins in Los Angeles in February 2026. Acclaimed director David Fincher is reportedly expected to helm the series. The new adaptation will feature a fresh cast and a Western social backdrop. Read on to know more about the upcoming spin-off
The Trump administration is preparing backup plans in case the US Supreme Court overturns any of its major tariff actions, Bloomberg reported, citing sources. The options under review include invoking Section 301 and Section 122 of the Trade Act, which allow the president to impose duties without congressional approval.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar told voters in Malegaon that funds for the town would be ensured only if they elected all 18 candidates of his party for the upcoming Nagar Panchayat polls. Pawar, who also handles the states finance portfolio, said, You have votes, I have funds, drawing criticism from the Opposition.
Donald Trump's loyal MAGA base is reportedly unsettled by recent policy reversals on the Epstein files and H-1B visas, alongside a cordial meeting with Zohran Mamdani. This discontent has led to public breaks with allies like Marjorie Taylor Greene and a visible decline in Trump's approval ratings, suggesting a weakening bond with his core supporters.
Despite enduring over 29 surgeries throughout his 32-year career, Tamil superstar Ajith Kumar remains a hardcore optimist. He attributes his resilience to a deliberate choice to learn from setbacks and move forward, emphasising pure intentions and wishing well for others as keys to inner peace and a fulfilling life. Read on to know what keeps him optimistic in life.
A Bengaluru Uber drivers thoughtful act went viral after he bought a sandwich for a hungry passenger who broke down during a late-night ride. Content creator Yogita Rathore shared that the driver overheard her saying she had not eaten all day and stopped to get her vegetarian food. His gesture moved her to tears, prompting an emotional Instagram post that inspired widespread praise and reminded viewers of the power of small acts of kindness.
Neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar advocates for a daily 30-minute walk as a powerful, cost-free habit to significantly reduce the risk of major diseases, improve longevity, and enhance overall well-being. This simple practice, supported by research, boosts cardiovascular health, lowers dementia risk, and triggers beneficial molecular changes throughout the body, including strengthening mitochondria.
A Hyderabad neurologist highlighted ten common medical practices lacking scientific backing, often prescribed despite weak evidence. These include the misuse of antibiotics for viral infections, excessive multivitamin tonics, and indiscriminate PPI consumption. The expert warned against high vitamin D doses without testing, steroids for mild issues, and unnecessary scans, emphasizing potential harm and lack of proven benefit.
Seven companies, including Amazon, Microsoft and Alphabet, the parent company of Google, now make up well over a third of the value of the S&P 500 index. Just one of the so-called Magnificent Seven, Nvidia, which makes the chips that power many of the most advanced large language models, recently, though briefly, topped $5 trillion in market value.
Kerala Minister V Sivankutty has assured that the state government will not adopt an anti-worker stance while implementing the new central labour codes. The government is carefully evaluating the reforms, which aim for universal social security and improved worker rights. Discussions with trade unions and industry representatives will shape state-level rules.
Actress Shilpa Shirodkar celebrated 36 years since her Bollywood debut in 'Bhrashtachar,' reflecting on her journey and the lessons learned. Despite stepping away from the industry at her career's peak to focus on family after marrying a UK-based banker, she maintains a wealthy lifestyle in London, estimated at 237 crore, enjoying luxury cars, travel, and designer fashion.
Evercore raised Nvidias price target to $352, saying Blackwell chip demand is strong. Analysts expect revenue growth and more orders ahead. Nvidias stock looks cheaper than usual, making it attractive for investors. AI spending and cloud growth are boosting Nvidias business. Strong supply and high demand could push the stock higher in the coming months.
One Group Developers will invest Rs 700 crore to revive the Sushant Aquapolis project in Ghaziabad, following NCLT approval of their resolution plan. This offers hope to over 3,000 homebuyers stuck for a decade. The rebranded ONE Aquapolis aims for a Rs 1300 crore revenue potential, with construction expected within four years of approvals.
Michelle Obama revealed about aging, confidence, and her connection during a podcast talk with Jane Fonda, Bethann Hardison, and Jenna Lyons. She showed pride in her 5-foot-11 height and expressed her love for heels, stating that she now completely embraces her look. Michelle also admired Barack for bolstering her confidence and never feeling insecure when she puts on heels.
Gastroenterologist Dr. Pal Manickam gave a glimpse into doctors buffet choices in a viral Instagram video, showing how medical professionals prioritize gut-friendly, fiber-rich foods even at social gatherings. Highlighting quinoa salad, colorful vegetables, dal, and plant-based protein, he emphasized a rainbow diet and minimal animal products. The post, captioned This is what doctors eat when they gather together!, underscores how simple, plant-focused choices support digestive health and overal
A Delhi doctor shed 38 kilograms in three years by incorporating one important food item daily into his diet. This simple habit, he explained, boosted his metabolism, improved liver health, and increased energy levels. The doctor highlighted the protein and choline content of that food item as key factors in his successful and sustainable weight loss journey. Read on!
Rajasthan's mining department will go fully digital from December 15. All mining-related work will be conducted online. This move aims to boost transparency and efficiency. Officials will use new mobile applications and online modules for all processes. Compliance monitoring begins December 1. This transition will reduce delays and office visits for field officers.
Travis Head delivered a stunning performance in the fourth innings. He scored a match-winning 123 runs off 83 balls. This century was the fastest in the fourth innings of a Test match. Head's innings broke a long-standing record. He also achieved the highest strike rate in a successful Test run chase. Head expressed that the moment felt special.
A Man on the Inside Season 2 ending explained in simple words. The finale shows how the laptop theft at Wheeler College was not the act of one person. The staff acted together to stop a major plan called Project Aurora. The story explains how Holly, Dr. Cole, and Charles shape the final reveal.
European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, along with Japan and Canada, will meet on Saturday during the G20 Summit to discuss the U.S. proposed peace plan for Ukraine, according to sources.
A woman in China reunited with her missing Labrador nearly three months after the dog disappeared from Qingdao. Despite weeks of unsuccessful searches, she finally spotted her petnamed Septemberin a social media video posted from Changsha, over 1,500km away. The owner recognised the dog by its skin marks and confirmed its identity through a video call. She then arranged relocation services, leading to an emotional reunion marked by relief, tears and Septembers surprising good health.
A Rajasthan-based business owner shared an incident on X about a candidate's negotiation strategy backfiring. The applicant attempted to leverage competing offers with two firms. Both companies ultimately withdrew their offers. The candidate then sought to rejoin the first firm on original terms. The situation ignited a discussion on the Indian Workplace subreddit regarding negotiation and compensation.
Indian businesses face significant operational changes with new labor rules. Companies must restructure pay, provide annual health check-ups for older staff, and extend gratuity to fixed-term employees. These reforms also offer greater flexibility in hiring women for night shifts and managing seasonal workers. Industry leaders believe these changes will boost India's global competitiveness and create more jobs.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg. He also met Indian-origin tech entrepreneurs and discussed investments with Naspers. The Prime Minister witnessed a cultural performance reflecting diaspora connections. These engagements highlight India's global outreach and deepening partnerships.
China's economic challenges are reshaping global trade dynamics, with Beijing increasingly relying on manufacturing and exports to compensate for a sluggish domestic economy, noted the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission's 2025 Report to Congress.
The popular Malayalam comedy entertainer, The Pet Detective, starring Sharaf U Dheen and Anupama Parameswaran, is set for its digital premiere. After a successful theatrical run, the film, which mixes humour, romance, and crime with a fun storyline, will now be accessible to a wider audience. Read on to know where to stream the movie online.
In a passionate appeal, Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M K Stalin has called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to re-evaluate the dismissal of Metro Rail initiatives for the cities of Coimbatore and Madurai. Emphasizing widespread public discontent, Stalin argued for the vital role of efficient public transport in facilitating urban expansion.
At the first G20 Summit hosted in Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled three initiatives to redefine global development and cooperation, focusing on knowledge sharing, human capital, and countering the drug-terror nexus. Despite a US boycott, the G20 adopted a declaration emphasising multilateralism, peace efforts, climate action, debt relief, and critical minerals, underscoring Africa's growing influence.
President Droupadi Murmu will lead the Constitution Day celebrations in the historic Central Hall of the old Parliament building, marking the adoption of the Constitution on November 26, 1949.

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