The Economic Times News

Adobe is enhancing Firefly's video capabilities with precise editing tools, allowing creators to modify existing AI-generated clips without full regeneration. New features include improved camera control, video upscaling via Topaz, and a browser-based editor for assembling AI and real footage.

Vedanta Aluminium has expanded its Lanjigarh refinery in Odisha to 5 million tonnes per annum. This significant capacity increase elevates India's total alumina refining capacity to nearly 13 MTPA. The nation is now poised to become the third-largest alumina producer globally. The refinery achieved its highest-ever monthly production in November, demonstrating strong growth.

The Supreme Court has declared Delhi-NCR's air pollution a total failure of current measures. It seeks practical, long-term solutions. The court asked the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and National Highways Authority of India to consider shifting or closing toll plazas. Delhi government's order to close schools for young children was upheld as a temporary protection.

Kolkata's Cable TV Show 2025 sees fewer Bangladeshi delegates due to visa issues. Indian authorities intervened to allow about 60 participants. Bangladesh is a key market for Indian cable TV equipment. Reduced participation may affect cross-border trade. Chinese participation has also ceased. The show highlights new technologies in digital cable, broadband, and OTT services.

In Bihar's Darbhanga, officials are struggling to recover Rs 10,000 credited to male villagers despite sending them recovery notices. The welfare flagship programme was meant for women but due to technical problem the money was credited to male villagers. Now, the villagers are saying we spent the money during Diwali and Chhath with one of them demanding their votes back.

Silver Price Hike: Silver reached a historic high of Rs 2 lakh per kg in India on Wednesday, driven by weaker US labor data that fueled expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts and weakened the dollar. Internationally, spot silver surged to a record $65.53 an ounce.

An HR department faced online backlash after mistakenly emailing a former employee about pending exit formalities. The recipient, who hadn't worked there for over a year and wasn't named Shravan, humorously pointed out the error. This incident highlighted perceived inefficiencies in corporate HR practices and sparked criticism on Reddit.

India's electronics manufacturing sector is set for a major boost. The EMC 2.0 scheme is projected to create 1.80 lakh jobs. Over Rs 1.46 lakh crore investment is expected across ten states. This initiative supports world-class infrastructure with ready-to-use facilities. Manufacturers are committing significant investments, with some operations already underway. The program enhances supply chains and skill development.

Indian wear is no longer limited to festivals or red carpets at home. From global premieres to international fashion weeks, Bollywood celebrities have proudly carried Indian culture worldwide, making tradition fashionable, powerful, and respected.

A Delhi-based 27-year-old sought psychiatric help for depression but found no relief until medical tests revealed severe Vitamin B12, D3 and magnesium deficiencies. In an Instagram post, Dr Obaidur Rahman of RML Hospital explains how hidden nutritional gaps can mimic mental health disorders. With targeted supplements and lifestyle changes, the woman recovered within months, highlighting a frequently overlooked cause of emotional and cognitive distress.

The Moradabad Municipal Corporation is developing the Trishul War Museum, which will display veteran military equipment, including tanks, a MiG-27 aircraft, the INS Vikrant, and other armaments supplied by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the defence ministry.

Engineering giant Larsen & Toubro has won significant new projects. These include building a cultural and spiritual museum, Advait Lok, at Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh. The company will also redevelop the R G Baruah Sports Complex in Guwahati, featuring a FIFA-compliant football stadium.

Delhi-NCR's severe air pollution is hitting retail hard. Market footfall has dropped significantly. Shoppers are staying home due to health concerns. This is affecting businesses, especially with Christmas and New Year approaching. Traders are urging a coordinated effort from neighbouring states and the Union government to tackle the crisis. Market associations are ready to cooperate with any government-led initiatives.

The Supreme Court has transferred a suo moto case concerning the rape of a trainee doctor in Kolkata to the Calcutta High Court. The apex court directed that a status report on the CBI investigation be given to the victim's parents.

The Peoples Democratic Party has accused the National Conference of ending its fight for Jammu and Kashmir's special status. PDP leader Waheed Para stated the National Conference is now implementing the BJP's agenda for statehood. The party highlighted the shift from promising special status to requesting business rules for administration.

Volkswagen India has launched its FastFest year end campaign, offering benefits of up to 1.55 lakh on the Taigun and Virtus. The festive scheme includes cash benefits, exchange bonuses and manufacturer supported EMIs across select variants, with offers available for a limited period.

States hold the key to the next phase of higher education reform in India, said Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India, during the CII Global Higher Education Summit on Wednesday here in the national capital.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced significant progress on the Kavach system. Over 2,000 kilometers of the rail network are now covered. The minister highlighted the system's complexity and the extensive training provided. He also reported a substantial reduction in rail accidents, a 90 percent decrease compared to 2014 figures. This advancement underscores a commitment to enhanced railway safety.

Maruti Suzuki has introduced an optional swivel seat for the WagonR, enhancing accessibility for seniors and persons with disabilities. This pilot project, available in 11 cities, aims to promote inclusive mobility. The retrofit kit, developed with a startup, can be installed in new or existing vehicles, offering dignity and independence to more customers.

Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan urges caution against premature claims of India being a global superpower. He emphasises that while ambition is vital, decades of sustained effort and groundwork are necessary before such a status can be credibly achieved. Rajan warns that self-congratulation without addressing fundamental issues risks complacency, stressing the need for realism alongside aspiration.

A viral video reveals significant traffic congestion at Rohtang Pass. This surge in visitors to the mountains coincides with severe air pollution in Delhi. Residents are seeking cleaner air, leading to unexpected crowds in ecologically sensitive areas. The situation highlights the environmental pressures on mountain regions due to urban pollution crises.

Dyson introduces the Airwrap Origin, a new hair multi-styler. It uses Coanda airflow for drying and styling. The device comes with three attachments for different looks. Intelligent heat control protects hair from damage. The Airwrap Origin is available in India. It offers controlled airflow for home styling.

Careers rarely end dramatically; they begin fading in the late 30s as market attention shifts to younger talent. By the mid-40s, professionals can be seen as replaceable, leading to financial pressure. Financially aware individuals shift focus from income to assets, building wealth that works for them to ensure optionality and dignity in later years.

Your fingernails offer clues about your internal health. Subtle changes in their shape can indicate how well your lungs are working. Prolonged low oxygen levels can cause nails to become more rounded and curved, a condition known as clubbing. This change is often linked to chronic lung or heart issues.

US is preparing a further round of sanctions on Russia's energy sector to increase the pressure on Moscow should President Vladimir Putin reject a peace agreement with Ukraine, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Mordialloc beach brawl: Police were called to Mordialloc Beach after a large group of youths became unruly. The gathering led to a Woolworths store going into lockdown. Footage showed youths running through the supermarket, damaging stock and stealing items. Objects were thrown at officers. Later, a disturbing incident of a young man being stomped on was seen.

The teaser of Sunny Deol-starrer Border 2 was dropped yesterday. While the teaser received praise, fans were not happy with the VFX used in the movie. Many netizens took to X to express their disappointment calling the VFX used in Border 2 cringe and extremely artificial. Border 2 releases on January 23 2026.

Fitness expert Yasmin Karachiwala started a simple year-end countdown workout challenge, urging daily movement with reps matching the days left. This practical approach, featuring exercises like jumping jacks and squats, focuses on consistency over intensity. The goal is to build momentum and confidence, making it easy to stay active without demanding gym sessions. Read on to know more about it!

Uttar Pradesh minister Sanjay Nishad defended his controversial comment on Bihar CM Nitish Kumar pulling down a woman's hijab, claiming it was lost in translation and light-hearted. Opposition parties, including Congress, SP, and AAP, demanded an unconditional apology, calling his remarks misogynistic and anti-women. Nishad stated his intention was not to insult any community or religion.

U.S. stock futures edged higher early Wednesday after November payrolls topped estimates. Nasdaq, S&P 500, and Dow futures posted modest gains before the open. Unemployment stayed elevated at 4.6 percent, keeping Fed rate expectations in focus. Treasury yields rose near 4.15 percent as investors weighed policy clues. Earnings, global markets, and commodities now drive the next move.

Triumph Tracker 400 has been unveiled, expanding its 400cc motorcycle lineup with a flat track-inspired roadster. Powered by a 398cc single-cylinder engine, the new model focuses on distinctive styling and engaging performance, placing it against established rivals in the mid-capacity motorcycle segment.

IndiGo founders Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal have debuted in the top-10 self-made entrepreneurs list, with their low-cost airline valued at 2.2 lakh crore in 2025. Eternals Deepinder Goyal leads the list with a valuation of 3.2 lakh crore, followed by Radhakishan Damani at 3 lakh crore.

ACME Solar has commissioned 52 MW of its 100 MW wind power project in Surendranagar, Gujarat. The project, financed by PFC, will sell electricity under a 25-year PPA with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited. This marks a significant step in ACME Solar's expanding renewable energy portfolio.

Mizuho Financial Group is acquiring a controlling stake in Indian investment bank Avendus, allowing KKR to exit its nine-year-old investment. The deal values Avendus at 5,900 crore, translating to a 3.5x return for KKR.

State Bank of India's Managing Director Ashwini Kumar Tewari will continue in his role. The Centre has approved an extension of his tenure. He will now serve until December 31, 2027. This follows his current term ending in January 2026. Tewari previously led SBI Card. His reappointment is effective from when he assumes charge.

JioSaavn's 2025 recap reveals a vibrant audio landscape dominated by regional languages and familiar playback voices. Commute times remain peak listening hours, showcasing a blend of comfort and personalisation. Top artists and songs highlight a strong preference for local content, alongside growing engagement with regional and global performers, reinforcing the platform's multi-format appeal.

Electric vehicles face growing uncertainty as regulatory shifts and slowing demand test global strategies. Automakers are now stretching timelines and leaning towards hybrids, reflecting a more pragmatic and uneven path forward for electrification, driven by consumer economics and evolving political priorities.

Tech titan Peter Thiel inspired Hamilton College graduates. He shared his journey, emphasizing that unexpected turns can lead to great achievements. Thiel encouraged students to embrace challenges and pursue ambitious ideas. His own path, from law to co-founding PayPal and Palantir, highlights the power of unconventional thinking. The message resonated with the graduating class.

Election results Punjab: The ruling Aam Aadmi Party and Congress are locked in a neck-and-neck fight as vote counting is underway for Punjab's zila parishad and panchayat samiti elections, with tight security in place. AAP has taken early leads in Zila Parishad and Block Samiti polls in Ludhiana. Counting of ballot papers started at 8 am at 154 centres set up across the state.

A mechanic's death in South Bengaluru highlights critical failures in emergency medical care and public apathy. After being denied help at two hospitals and then involved in a road accident, the man succumbed to his injuries. Despite pleas, motorists allegedly ignored him until a cab driver intervened.

Cornerstone has launched a new talent management venture with Armour Entertainment. This marks Cornerstone's return as an independent player in the segment. Tiger Shroff is the first talent signed. The partnership aims to build long-term careers across films, endorsements, and digital platforms.

Income Tax officials carried out a search operation at Bastian Pub in Bengaluru on Wednesday. The establishment is owned by actor Shilpa Shetty.

Stephen Hawking's words give deep life lessons. He urged looking up at stars, not down at feet, for perspective and hope. Work provides meaning and purpose, a truth he lived. Love is precious and should be cherished. He was a brilliant physicist who overcame severe illness. His legacy inspires millions worldwide. Read on!

India and Oman are set to sign a free trade agreement on Thursday in Muscat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be present for the signing. This Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aims to significantly boost economic ties. It will reduce or eliminate customs duties and ease trade in services. Oman is a key export destination for India in the GCC region.

Canada's Bill C-3, effective December 15, 2025, amends citizenship law to grant citizenship to those born before the date who were previously excluded by first-generation limits. The new legislation also allows Canadian parents born abroad to pass citizenship to their children, provided they demonstrate three years of prior physical presence in Canada.