The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Mumbai: Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world's largest brewer, has set aside $30 million against outstanding payments from the Telangana government, highlighting the financial risks of operating in India's state-controlled alcohol market, where delayed payments and restrictions on price increases are squeezing brewers.The disclosure comes amid wider industry concerns over nearly $400 million Telangana owes to alcohol companies in dues. Industry groups have accused the state of breaching accounting ru
The parliamentary panel on Communications and IT will examine the implementation of laws governing print, television and digital media as part of its 2026-27 review of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. Its agenda also covers OTT platforms, Prasar Bharati, film regulation and television ratings, building on earlier calls for a common media regulatory framework.
The regulator had extended the deadline earlier by a week after receiving more than 650 responses to its September 23 consultation paper, which proposes tighter commission limits, changes to expense-of-management rules and a new distribution architecture. The industry is now awaiting the draft guidelines followed by the final framework.
Over the past four quarters, India's medicine sales have increased significantly due to rising demand in chronic care segments. The growth rate reached 12% year-on-year in the September quarter, showing a positive trend in the industry. Larger pharmaceutical companies have benefited from the shutdown of many non-compliant smaller units. Budgets were also boosted by a reduction in GST on medicines.
Faith manages every stage of a project, from process planning and mechanical design through robot programming, system integration and on-site commissioning. It has revenues of around Rs 300 crore. Its clients include Honda, Mahindra & Mahindra and Stellantis. The company's founding team led by Nilesh Pandhare and six of his colleagues previously worked at Italian firm Comau, which was part of Stellantis.
Stefan Bollinger highlights the potential risk of an AI bubble affecting global markets significantly. He notes that India's equity valuation correction is healthy, maintaining the country's growth story. Investors are increasingly diversifying their portfolios with a focus on hedge funds and private equity. The Fed's decision on rates remains uncertain, though high inflation complicates matters. Rising yields in Japan are likely to attract domestic investors back to their markets.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has mandated the use of two pilots for Char Dham helicopter services. This requirement comes after a recent helicopter crash in Uttarakhand resulted in multiple fatalities. Operators are protesting this new rule, citing increased costs and potential service suspensions. Additionally, co-pilots must now be qualified for hilly terrain operations. Operators are required to secure clearance from the control room before every flight.
Trials for the Digi Yatra facility have commenced at seven airports across India for international passengers. This service is available on a trial basis for Indian nationals with e-passports. It will initially operate on select international flights by Air India and IndiGo. Digi Yatra utilizes facial recognition technology to enable seamless movement at airport checkpoints. A wider rollout of this facility is anticipated in the year 2027.
Ajay Devgn returns as Vijay Salgaonkar in Drishyam 3, the latest instalment of the popular crime thriller franchise. After its theatrical release, the film has sparked curiosity among viewers waiting to discover how the story unfolds and when they can watch it from home. With new challenges facing Vijay and the investigation taking another turn, here's what to know about the film's expected digital release, cast and story.
IDFC First Bank and small finance banks such as AU, Jana and Suryoday were among the biggest users of the scheme to reduce credit risk. They have set aside the guarantee fee for the current fiscal year, expecting the government to reopen the window soon, people aware of the matter said.
Mumbai: Banks are reporting 10-50% improvements across productivity, turnaround time and operating costs from artificial intelligence-led initiatives, with some lenders handling up to 30% more servicing volumes without adding manpower as AI moves deeper into corporate banking, collections and transaction processing.The gains vary across operations: Axis Bank has recorded productivity improvements of more than 10% in selected customer journeys, Kotak Mahindra Bank can handle 20-30% more corporate
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Southern Bullet Train Corridor which will connect Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Amaravati, and Chennai. This high-speed rail project aims to reduce travel time significantly between these economic hubs. The Bengaluru-Chennai journey will take just 73 minutes, while Bengaluru-Hyderabad will take about two hours and 10 minutes.
Helicopter operators in Uttarakhand have decided to suspend their Char Dham charter operations from November 2. This action follows a letter sent to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation expressing their concerns. The operators oppose the new regulation that requires all helicopters to have two crew members on board. They argue that the mandate will significantly impact their financial viability and operational efficiency.
The world of techno music mourns the loss of Juan Atkins, who passed away at age 64. A co-founder of the Belleville Three, he played an instrumental role in shaping the electronic music landscape, inspiring a multitude of artists worldwide. He died unexpectedly in Mexico City prior to a scheduled show, and details surrounding his death remain unclear.
Diesel sales experienced an 11.7% year-on-year increase in October due to heightened economic activity. Petrol sales, on the other hand, increased by only 3.1% during the same month. LPG sales continued to decline significantly, dropping 12.1% year-on-year as supplies tightened. Aviation turbine fuel sales decreased by 1.3%, reflecting persistent sluggishness in the aviation sector. Overall, the fuel market showed mixed trends amid changing consumption patterns in India.
Renowned director Michael Mann was reportedly hospitalised following an accidental firearm discharge while practicing at a Los Angeles gun range. The incident happened during a training session, resulting in a minor injury. Fortunately, his representative announced that Mann is in stable condition. Known for iconic films like Heat and Collateral, he is currently working on a highly anticipated sequel to Heat.
Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, Kentucky, was once a tuberculosis hospital where an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 people died. Now considered one of America's most haunted places, the former hospital attracts paranormal enthusiasts with stories of unexplained activity. Visitors leave toys and rubber balls on the third floor for a rumoured child ghost called Timmy, while Room 502 is associated with disturbing stories about a nurse's alleged death.
Large and Medium Industries Minister MB Patil has dismissed claims from Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy regarding Honda Motors. He described the allegations as baseless and said they could adversely impact investment in Karnataka. Patil emphasized that Honda has been successfully operating in Karnataka for over a decade and is expanding their production capabilities. The company is set to manufacture electric two-wheelers soon at their Narasapura facility.
Pidilite Industries, known for its Fevicol adhesive, anticipates maintaining profitability between 20-24% through price hikes. Managing Director Sudhanshu Vats indicated a 4-5% price increase, with potential for another rise in the March quarter. The company increased prices by 12% in the June quarter following fluctuating input costs, notably for vinyl acetate monomer. Pidilite's consolidated profit increased by 7% year-on-year, with sales rising over 21%.
Electric car sales in India nearly doubled year-on-year to 35,777 units in October, taking their share of passenger vehicle sales to 7% from 3.2% a year earlier. Tata Motors led with a 40.7% market share, followed by Mahindra at 23.7%, as high fuel prices and expanding charging infrastructure supported demand.
Published in 1792, The Old Farmers Almanac provides a wealth of information about weather and agriculture. It serves as a reference for gardening advice, recipes, and astronomical data. Originally intended to support farming, it has grown in scope over the years. The publication retains relevance as technology changes how people access information. Its enduring popularity illustrates the lasting interest in traditional sources of knowledge.
The death toll in Odisha due to Cyclone Arnab has reached six, with bodies recovered from Gidipabali village. Around 10 individuals remain missing after the village was buried in a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall. Survivors have been relocated to a relief center, expressing fears about their missing loved ones. Various rescue teams are actively searching for the missing persons amidst debris and mud.
Young Sherlock presents a captivating look into the life of Sherlock Holmes as he delves into a murder case at Oxford University. This series not only unravels his investigative skills but also showcases his intricate early ties with the notorious James Moriarty. With Guy Ritchie at the helm for the first episodes, filming spanned picturesque locations in South Wales, providing an authentic backdrop for the narrative.
A Virginia couple who bought a nearly 100-year-old home in 2025 transformed its gravel backyard into a garden with grass, flowers and vegetables. However, a year later, a realtor representing the neighbouring property's former owner told them that part of the backyard belonged to his client and that their fence had to be removed. After workers arrived and dismantled part of the fence, the couple hired a lawyer.
Sharran Srivatsaa, the CEO of Acquisition.com, once taught Bill Gates tennis. During their interactions, Sharran was taken aback by how curious the billionaire was and how frequently he asked questions. In a recent interview, the entrepreneur said that many extremely successful people have one trait in common - being curious.
Royal Enfield reported a 7% year-on-year increase in October sales to 1.33 lakh motorcycles, supported by strong festive demand. Domestic sales rose 4% to 1.22 lakh units, while exports surged 47% to 11,915 units. Motorcycles above 350cc recorded 18% growth, outpacing the 5% rise in smaller-engine models.
NCRTC is working with NCRPB to develop urban centers along new transit corridors including Namo Bharat. Collaboration focuses on planning frameworks to encourage private investment in transit-oriented development zones. Key discussions cover measures that support flexible land use and streamlined clearances for developers. The redevelopment project at Sarai Kale Khan aims to create a multimodal hub for connectivity.
Honda Cars India reported a 23% year-on-year decline in total sales to 8,082 units in October, as exports plunged 88% to 473 units. Domestic sales rose to 7,609 units from 6,394 a year earlier, supported by festive demand and a strong response to the recently launched Honda Elevate.
Following a chopper crash in Joshimath, new regulations have been implemented by the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority. Pilots will now need separate permissions for every flight segment as directed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. A co-pilot will also be mandatory on Char Dham yatra helicopter flights to enhance safety measures. Weather conditions at the time of the crash are under investigation, along with pilot communications.
In a devastating incident in Jalandhar, 18-year-old Vidit Auluck and his companion Aarav Talwar tragically perished in a road accident. Their vehicle crashed into a stationary Municipal Corporation tractor-trolley while the area was being cleaned. Vidit, the beloved son of influential Punjabi music figure Dinesh Auluck, is mourned by a family and community, including well-known friends such as Honey Singh and Gippy Grewal, who expressed their sorrow.
Ferrero sees India as a key market, expecting its growth in the premium chocolate segment. The company aims for sustainable growth, expanding its brand portfolio, strengthening distribution and building a sustainable growth trajectory. The company plans to enhance its presence in smaller cities, through wider retail distribution and e-commerce platforms. They are tapping into the Indian traditions and consumer aspirations through targeted campaigns.
Telugu crime drama Anakapalli, starring Vikram Sahidev and Sandhya Vashishtha in the lead roles, is set to make its OTT debut soon. Directed by Khagesh Tammineni, the film follows a young man who joins a feared gangster's gang but eventually turns against him. The story combines crime, gang rivalry, romance and family emotions.
The fitness community mourns the tragic loss of Liam Fitzgerald, a renowned influencer with a following exceeding one million on Instagram. His girlfriend, Jamie Lyn Rinaldi, revealed that he succumbed to injuries from a devastating motorcycle accident. Tributes have flooded in from friends and fans, celebrating his legacy as a beacon of motivation. Details regarding the accident remain vague, leaving followers seeking more information about this heartbreaking event.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India plans to delist companies that have no economic activity. This move aims to protect investors, especially those investing in penny stocks. The regulator highlights the potential dangers posed by such inactive companies in the market. Additionally, Sebi intends to announce compliance requirements for foreign institutional investors soon.
JD Vance brought the spirit of Halloween alive by donning a Harry Potter-inspired outfit alongside his family. Dressed as Dumbledore, he delighted fans, while his sons Dobby costume sparked joy and banter online. Along with heartwarming family photos amidst autumnal decor, Vance's Halloween posts reflect his lighthearted nature and ability to connect with followers through playful tradition.
Union Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched EPFO services through WhatsApp for easier access. Subscribers can check their PF balance and transaction history conveniently using this platform. The automatic settlement for inoperative EPF accounts was also introduced, streamlining the process for beneficiaries. In total, around one lakh accounts will benefit from this initiative. The EPFO's commitment to evolve and focus on worker-centric innovations was emphasized during the cele
India has engaged in discussions with Russia, Europe, and Ukraine regarding the ongoing conflict and its impact. These talks focused on preventing attacks on civilian shipping and restoring grain exports affected by Black Sea disruptions. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised the complexity of discussions around ceasing attacks on energy installations. Various interpretations of what constitutes energy installations have complicated these discussions.
The billionaire has eschewed the trend of healthy eating and always admitted his love for junk food loudly and with pride. He has acknowledged his love for food that would be shunned by health junkies soft drinks, burgers, ice cream, etc. How does he keep fit?
Millions of Americans will change their clocks on November 1, 2026, marking the end of daylight saving time. Lawmakers are considering abandoning this twice-yearly clock adjustment, with a proposal approved by the House. However, the Senate expresses concerns about implications for winter mornings and public safety. Disagreements surfaced between Republican Senator Tom Cotton and the president over permanent daylight saving time.
BJP chief Nitin Nabin criticized Rahul Gandhi for allegedly acting under foreign influence to create disorder. He emphasized that the Constitution should govern the country rather than the 'Gandhi family's law.' Nabin accused the Congress party of seeking to challenge democratic processes after failing to secure a people's mandate. He also reiterated the BJP's intent to retain power in the upcoming general elections.
Larsen and Toubro is focusing on raising revenue growth in its services arms, LTM and LTTS. Currently, these companies grow at about 10-11 percent per year, which needs to increase. The management highlighted the importance of scaling up their services and accessing new markets. The recent AI-led disruption may help achieve this growth by leveling the playing field among competitors.
Bharat Bullet Train is being developed for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail corridor, emphasizing indigenous technology. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed various production processes at BEML's Aditya manufacturing facility in Bengaluru. The train will offer advanced passenger amenities and adhere to stringent safety standards during its operation. It is designed to accommodate about 557 passengers, including special provisions for persons with disabilities.
Mexican authorities recently raided the storage unit of Thomas Markle in response to serious allegations involving child sexual abuse material. Investigators found items like a computer and old VHS tapes in the unit, prompting further investigation. Authorities are also exploring related claims in the Philippines. Markle has adamantly denied any wrongdoing, claiming he never held such materials or interacted with children.
Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon shares his approach to time management, explaining why sticking to a schedule and being deliberate about daily commitments can help make every minute count. He also recalls his grandmother's career advice, Don't be in a hurry, and explains why he believes in balancing discipline in everyday life with patience when pursuing long-term goals.

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