The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
The World Meteorological Organization says prevailing El Nino conditions could intensify into a very strong event and persist through February 2027, threatening India with weaker rainfall, higher temperatures and greater risks of drought, floods and extreme heat. With August already recording a 16% rainfall deficit and the hottest August since 1901, El Nino could further stress crops and winter conditions.
With thrillers, comedy, crime, reality entertainment and documentaries in the mix, Netflix has plenty of options for viewers planning a weekend binge. Whether it is Taapsee Pannus intense search in Gandhari, the return of The Gentlemen or the latest Dhamaal adventure, the September 4 weekend comes with a varied streaming lineup. Read on!
Akasa Air has launched four weekly direct flights between Mumbai and Hanoi, making the Vietnamese capital its seventh international destination. Hanoi is also the airlines second destination in Southeast Asia after Phuket, expanding travel options between India and Vietnam.
Renowned Gujarat-based classical musician Bhagirath Bhatt, who has worked with Sanjay Leela Bhansali in films such as Padmavat and Heeramandi, recently revealed that he will not be participating in the popular reality TV series Bigg Boss 20, hosted by Salman Khan. He revealed why he wont be taking part in the TV show.
Knight Frank India has appointed Viral Desai as its new Chief Executive Officer. Desai will assume leadership of the company's India operations starting April 1, 2027. He has been a dedicated employee with the firm since 2007. Desai brings extensive experience in transactions and business development to his new role. He will work closely with the current CMD during the transition period.
Kriti Sanon, last seen in Cocktail 2, embraces vibrant hues and striking eye makeup that perfectly enhances her natural beauty. Carefully coordinating her eyeshadow with her outfits, she creates a cohesive look that captivates. The inclusion of smudged mascara and kohl lends an aura of drama while softening her gaze. Her penchant for bold lip shades, often paired with understated eyeliner, rounds off her signature style.
Samuel L Jacksons simple words about life carry a strong message about success, effort and taking responsibility for your own journey. In a 2011 interview with The Guardian, the Pulp Fiction star was asked about the most important lesson life had taught him. His answer was short but powerful. Read on to know why it felt relevant.
Volkswagen India is accelerating a three-year restructuring plan to cut jobs. The company aims to reduce its workforce by about twelve percent by 2027. This move seeks to lower costs before the next investment cycle begins. The automaker is also considering a deal for a controlling stake by JSW Group. These actions reflect global pressures on Volkswagen amid slowing demand.
Union (Mauritius) Holdings acquired a 0.57 percent stake for Rs 350.34 crore. This acquisition increased the Moopen family's total shareholding to approximately 24.58 percent. The transaction involved purchasing equity shares from Centella Mauritius Holdings Ltd. The deal was executed at a price of Rs 760 per share on September 2. Aster DM Quality Care now operates a network of 39 hospitals across 28 cities.
JSW Energy's total operational capacity has now surpassed fifteen gigawatts. Renewable energy sources constitute sixty percent of this substantial operational capacity. The company is actively progressing towards its greenfield capacity addition target. This target aims for three gigawatts by the fiscal year twenty twenty-seven. JSW Energy has already achieved approximately forty-two percent of this ambitious goal.
While work is obviously important for people, as we need a source of income and to be financially stable, it should never become the only priority in our lives or become the sole determinant of our self-worth. In an old interview, Freaky Friday star Jamie Lee Curtis reminded people that they should not make jobs their identity.
Kia India is preparing its vehicle lineup for higher-ethanol fuel blends. The automaker possesses engineering capabilities for fuel blends ranging from E0 to E20. This readiness is part of a broader multi-powertrain strategy for evolving mobility. The company is developing flexible-fuel technology in anticipation of market demand. Kia's approach ensures adaptability to India's changing fuel ecosystem and customer needs.
After gaining insight into Israeli avocado farming methods, an Indian entrepreneur from Bhopal successfully converted 5 acres of neglected land into a flourishing, Rs 1 crore avocado enterprise. His nursery not only sells saplings but also offers agro-consulting, generating over one crore rupees in revenue as he supplies top-quality avocados to chefs and hotels nationwide.
Smriti Mandhana has become the leading run-scorer in Women's Internationals, surpassing Mithali Raj's record. She also set a new record for the highest individual score in the Women's T20 Asia Cup and now holds the most centuries in women's international cricket. Despite acknowledging the challenging conditions, Mandhana expressed confidence in India's middle-order batters.
Global illicit money flows reached $4.4 trillion in 2025, growing faster than the world economy. Organized crime and corruption alone accounted for $2.78 trillion in 2025. India's economic offenses rose significantly, with financial losses mounting each year. Recovery rates remain low, and convictions under anti-money laundering laws are minimal. The judiciary is proactively addressing emerging digital scams and cross-border financial crime.
Delhis Connaught Place may see restrictions on vehicular movement in the Inner Circle as newly appointed NDMC chief Manoj Kumar Dwivedi seeks public suggestions on making the area more pedestrian-friendly. The proposal has drawn mixed reactions, with some supporting vehicle-free hours while traders have raised concerns over footfall, parking, accessibility and traffic congestion.
A University of Hawaii graduate student tested green roofs against white ones. The green roof proved significantly cooler than the adjacent white roof. This cooling effect extended two feet above the green roof surface. Evapotranspiration from plants cools surrounding air and buildings effectively. Green roofs offer a promising solution for urban heat island mitigation.
Sharma warns that ethanol-led changes in cropping patterns may create an environmental problem over the longer term.
Nepals devastating floods could trigger more than 20 billion Nepali rupees ($132.3 million) in commercial insurance losses, with hydropower projects expected to account for most claims. Eleven projects in the affected region suffered damage, while insurers warn the disaster could prompt tighter coverage, higher premiums and stricter underwriting for Himalayan infrastructure.
As enterprises rethink technology, engineering productivity is moving beyond the technology function and into wider business strategy. Atlassians engagement with ET shows how focused industry conversations can bring technology leaders together around questions of AI, workflows, service management and the future of enterprise work.
This week, Indian audiences can indulge in an interesting mix of Hollywood genres, featuring thrilling action and spine-chilling horror. Ryan Reynolds grabs attention in a fresh action-comedy, while the new film Black Box takes viewers on a shocking journey during a flight. Additionally, a popular Netflix series returns for its second season, promising binge-worthy entertainment, complemented by an array of new releases across theatres and OTT platforms. Read on!
Union Bank of India expects the RBI to raise the repo rate to 5.75-6% in H2 FY27, from the current 5.25%, with the rate-hike cycle likely beginning in December.
An Air India flight experienced hydraulic system failures and autopilot disconnect at high altitude. The pilot-in-command later tested non negative for a psychoactive substance, raising serious concerns. This incident injured twenty-four passengers and crew members on the Airbus A320 aircraft. Investigators recommended the Directorate General of Civil Aviation take immediate action. Air India is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation into the matter.
The government wants automakers to take greater responsibility for expanding and maintaining Indias EV charging network, as nearly half of the mapped charging stations are reportedly non-functional.
Reliance-owned JioStars Bigg Boss has attracted more than 95 advertisers across six language editions, spanning Hindi, Bangla, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. National and regional advertisers feature across the franchise, with first-time advertisers accounting for over half of participation in southern markets and 70% in Hindi, as brands increase spending on regional-language programming during the festive season.
Kia India has launched its new Sorento SUV, marking its entry into the hybrid vehicle market. The premium three-row sport-utility vehicle is priced at Rs 28 lakh and offers hybrid and diesel options. Production of the Sorento has commenced in India, with pre-bookings now open for Rs 25,000. This new model will compete with established players like the Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq.
Indias balance of payments (BoP) is likely to post a $60-65 billion surplus in FY27, despite a widening current account deficit, HDFC Bank said.
India plans to require two-hour battery storage equivalent to at least 10% of capacity for new government solar and onshore wind projects commissioned after July 1, 2027. The requirement would rise to four hours from July 2029. Draft rules also propose grid-forming inverters to improve grid stability amid renewable expansion.
India's manufacturing sector requires a 13.1 percent annual growth rate to reach USD 7.5 trillion by 2047. This ambitious target is crucial for India's goal of becoming a USD 30 trillion economy. Workforce productivity is identified as the most underleveraged growth lever for the nation. Many companies need operational changes to meet productivity targets and overcome hidden factors. Reimagining work, redesigning organizations, and remodelling the workforce are key suggested strategies.
In 2026, Mamitha Baiju is enjoying a major turning point in her career. Her films Jana Nayagan, Vishwanath & Sons and Bethlehem Kudumba Unit have reportedly crossed the Rs 200-crore mark worldwide. Bethlehem Kudumba Unit achieved the milestone in just 11 days. Read on to know more about her journey.
Recent unexpected leadership changes at top Indian private banks raise succession planning concerns. Investors question long-term business strategy continuity amid these abrupt departures. HDFC Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank face leadership transitions, surprising many analysts. Stricter regulations and competition from fintech also affect talent retention. Improved succession visibility will help maintain investor confidence in strategic direction.
Using discarded banana peels as a natural fertilizer is an effective way to nourish your plants while being kind to the environment. Homemade from kitchen scraps, this nutrient-rich mixture delivers potassium and magnesium, essential for thriving gardens. It promotes robust root growth, vibrant blooms, and retains soil moisture, offering an eco-friendly substitute to costly commercial fertilizers. Embrace sustainability in your gardening efforts!
Contrary to expectations, just like people, celebs dont wake up looking impeccably gorgeous, without a flaw in sight. Just like, women in the public eye also have to invest in make-up to look their best. In an interview, singer-fashion designer Victoria Beckham defended that being interested in makeup and other feminine pursuits does not make one frivolous.
Lacking protein in your diet? You dont need to compromise on being a vegetarian or spend a fortune to buy pricey branded protein bars. Actress Soha Ali Khan recently took to Instagram to share a delicious sweet dish that is vegan and high in protein.Even when I am having a non-makeup day, I like to make a bit of an effort because
Quote of the day Jodie Foster: Jodie Foster's quote emphasizes that creativity is crucial for a fulfilling life. Through pivotal career decisions, she chose to embrace both life and artistic expression. In times of existential doubt, her art served as a refuge. In our current fast-moving society, this view holds significant weight. By prioritizing creative endeavors, individuals can rediscover their sense of purpose and true passion.
India's culinary habits are shifting, with a marked preference for convenient and health-conscious snack choices over traditional meals. This change is influenced by higher incomes and the fast-paced nature of modern life. As a result, the snack industry is experiencing significant expansion, introducing various innovative products. Quick-commerce services are playing a vital role in making these options easily obtainable for consumers.
MMRDA is advancing infrastructure projects to achieve the 'Mumbai in 59 Minutes' vision. These projects aim to create seamless east-west and north-south connectivity across the region. The comprehensive network includes roads, tunnels, sea links, and metro corridors. Most ongoing infrastructure projects are targeted for completion by December 2028.
Elvish Yadav and Tejasswi Prakashs latest clash on Playground Season 5 has sparked a social media debate. After a viral clip showed Elvish using abusive language during an argument, he addressed the controversy on X. The reality star accused Tejasswi of bringing a gender angle into their disagreement. Read on to know what actually happened.
It is no secret that we are our biggest critics. In a viral Instagram post, neurosurgeon Dr Lee Warren explained that constantly thinking negatively has several consequences. Not only can it destroy our self-esteem, but it can also train the brain to turn all our debilitating thoughts into actual truths'.
An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced a sudden altitude drop. The Pilot-in-Command tested non-negative for psycho-active substance in a confirmatory test. This incident resulted in injuries to twenty passengers and four cabin crew members. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau released a preliminary report on the event. The Bureau recommended appropriate actions by the DGCA on priority.
Boman Iranis journey to becoming a success story in Bollywood, after getting his break at the age of 43, is a testament to perseverance and grit. The now-beloved actor, known for films such as Munnabhai MBBS, 3 Idiots, Veer Zaara, etc., once worked as a waiter at a Mumbai restaurant and struggled with dyslexia.
In the 1990s, Rahul Roy was briefly a box-office darling. His debut film, the 1990 Mahesh Bhatt directorial Ashiqui, became a huge hit. He became an overnight star. However, he was able to deliver another huge hitthe 1992 supernatural romance Junoonbut his luck faded. He made a comeback in 2022 and has been seen in supporting roles ever since.
Senior executives from India's Connected TV and FAST sectors met to discuss forming a new industry council. This proposed India Connected TV & FAST Council aims to improve transparency and foster growth. Participants stressed the need for an independent and inclusive industry institution. Discussions covered standards, measurement, and policy engagement for the growing ecosystem.
Italian market regulator Consob approved Tata Motors' offer document for Iveco Group shares. Shareholders can accept the offer from September 7 until October 26. Tata Motors will pay Euro 14.10 per common share, including dividends. Payments to tendering shareholders are scheduled for October 30, 2026. The offer will be extended to shareholders in the United States.
Balaji Telefilms has partnered with YouTube to launch five premium original shows spanning 200 episodes. Ekta Kapoor will lead the creative vision and retain intellectual property ownership, while YouTube will provide global distribution and monetisation through advertising and brand partnerships.
An IndiGo flight from Navi Mumbai to Srinagar hit a docking guidance pole while being parked at Srinagar airport on Friday. The aircraft was damaged, but all passengers and crew were safe and no injuries were reported.
Indian rice export prices have reached their highest point in a year. Below-average monsoon rainfall raises concerns about production and tightens supplies. Thailand's broken rice prices have also seen an increase this week. Vietnam's August rice exports experienced a significant year-on-year decline. Bangladesh's rice retail prices continue to remain elevated for consumers.
Cipla said its US unit has entered an exclusive partnership with Chinas Qilu Pharmaceutical to license QL2107, a biosimilar of Mercks cancer drug Keytruda. Qilu will handle development, approvals, manufacturing and supply, while Cipla USA will commercialise the treatment in the US, as Cipla expands its oncology biosimilars portfolio.
Mirzapur: The Movie has hit theaters with favourite characters returning to the screen. Social media buzz talks about the stellar performances and impressive presentation. With positive advance ticket sales, a robust opening weekend is anticipated for the film. Read on to know how netizens react to the movie.
Tata Chemicals Magadi has submitted a compliance report to the Kenyan government to address regulatory concerns and is awaiting further instructions.

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