The Economic Times

India is using AI, satellite and drone technology to modernise tea plantation monitoring. The Tea Board, ISROs National Remote Sensing Centre and NIT Rourkela have launched CHAAYANKAN, a project that will use satellite imagery, weather data and field observations to detect crop stress, pests and diseases, and forecast tea yields.

Several new Malayalam films and a popular reality show are premiering this week. From Ananthan Kaadu, a Tamil-Malayalam action drama to Unmadham, a Malayalam thriller, read on to know when and where to watch these releases online.

A Mumbai nutritionist shares a simple recipe for protein-rich corn fritters. These fritters offer nearly 20 grams of protein and take only ten minutes. The recipe combines corn, sprouts, and greens for a wholesome snack option. A creamy Greek yogurt dip complements the crispy, golden fritters perfectly. This convenient snack satisfies cravings and boosts daily protein intake.

This Ganesh Chaturthi, savor the joy of festive sweets without guilt with a delicious sugar-free modak recipe by celebrity nutritionist Yasmin Karachiwala who has worked with Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone. Using wholesome ingredients like nuts, dates, and figs, these modaks offer delightful natural sweetness. Enhanced by the aromatic essence of rose petals and the crunch of sesame seeds, indulge in this healthy treat and make your celebrations truly nourishing.

Anand Mahindra recently showcased a video of Boris Johnson praising the BSA motorcycle, particularly the Bantam, which boasts significant historical ties to Britain while being made in India. Mahindra expressed his pride in re-establishing the storied BSA brand through his subsidiary. This revival highlights the lasting industrial relationships forged between India and Britain across the years.

Dulquer Salmaan's much-anticipated film I'm Game kicked off its journey with a solid Rs 5 crore at the Indian box office. This action-fantasy thriller, released in four different languages, captured audiences, especially during evening and night screenings, which played a crucial role in the opening day performance. Read on1

Group Captain Abhinandan (Retd) has transitioned to civil aviation after his IAF career. He is credited with downing a Pakistani F-16 during the Balakot operations. The fighter pilot will now serve as a commercial pilot with a private airline. His bravery in 2019 earned him the Vir Chakra gallantry medal. This move marks a new chapter connecting people across India.

The Trump administration employs economic pressure and military threats against Iran. Iran's government has refused to yield to these intense measures. New sanctions face challenges with major trading partners like China. The Strait of Hormuz remains a key point of contention and risk. Both nations face domestic pressures influencing their current stance.

South Korea is considering deploying military assets to support freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz before the end of 2026, according to local media. Options reportedly include a maritime patrol aircraft, logistics vessel or mine-clearing unit, while Seoul says discussions are ongoing and no deployment decision has been finalised.

The upcoming anime series, Dragon Ball Super: Beerus, introduces an exciting retelling of early arcs with stunning new animation. This revamped version boasts thrilling action and showcases Frieza in the trailer, hinting at intriguing developments to come for fans. Scheduled to launch in Japan on October 11, 2026, it will have a sneak peek at New York Comic Con. Read on to know more about the India release date.

Purvah Green Power is set to acquire Welspun New Energy for approximately 2,500 crore. This acquisition will provide Purvah access to Welspun's renewable energy development pipeline. Purvah aims to build a 10 GW green power portfolio through various projects. Welspun New Energy is targeting 5 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. The deal marks Welspun's second major renewable energy asset sale in a decade.

The spotlight on food safety and compliance is shining brightly in Indian F&B sectors. With regulatory scrutiny reaching CEO boardroom discussions, organizations are shifting marketing resources to fortify compliance measures. Founders of start-ups are stepping up audit frequencies and ensuring transparency, while distributors now navigate a landscape of enhanced regulatory checks for their applications.

Electronics producers are adapting to rising costs by innovating their material choices and enhancing local manufacturing efforts. In place of copper, aluminum is now favored in products like refrigerators and air conditioners. As input costs climb due to soaring commodity prices and AI infrastructure needs, businesses have raised prices but are also strategically absorbing certain cost increases. Simultaneously, they are fine-tuning product designs to minimize expenditures.

Indian multinationals are assessing their UAE tax exposure before November's deadline. A new 15% minimum tax could affect their existing corporate tax structures. This global minimum tax rule applies to large groups with significant consolidated global revenue. Companies must register for the levy by November 30 this year. UAE authorities have issued guidance on compliance and scope for these firms.

The Reserve Bank of India anticipates minimal costs from significant forex inflows. High interest rates on US treasuries are expected to offset hedging expenses. These record inflows will also reduce currency intervention costs for the central bank. Economists suggest hedging costs could reach thirty-six thousand crore rupees. The RBI's balance sheet growth may impact future surplus transfers to the government.

Banks are deploying surplus liquidity through new mortgage products. HSBC and Kotak Mahindra Bank lead with semi-fixed home loan options. These products offer fixed rates for a period before switching. This strategy aims to protect lending margins amid interest rate uncertainty. Surplus funds are also being considered for government securities.

SpiceJet is leasing twenty aircraft to boost its flying capacity for the upcoming winter travel season. These leased planes, a mix of Boeing and Airbus models, will arrive by mid-November. The airline aims to operate around two hundred daily flights during this busy period. This expansion will also support peak travel demand expected next year. The leased aircraft offer a quicker way to increase capacity without outright purchases.

Indian drugmakers oppose a proposal making them solely liable for medicine overpricing. This regulatory move exempts retail chemists, hospitals, and nursing homes from penalties. Pharmaceutical groups argue this unfairly burdens manufacturers already following pricing rules. Retail chemists, however, welcome the safeguards for their members. Manufacturers believe accountability should extend to those setting the final patient price.

Public sector banks gained significant lending headroom after liquidity requirement relaxation. This allows them to sustain credit growth while deposit mobilisation remains relatively weak. Excess investment buffers could support incremental loan growth on their substantial loan books. Banks can now free up funds tied up in government bonds for lending. This improvement is visible at some of the largest state-owned lenders.

The Indian entertainment industry is witnessing a surge in celebrities curating non-fiction series that revolve around their public identities. This trend smartly tackles the challenge of fleeting audience attention and the saturation of content. By teaming up with creators, these stars develop compelling intellectual properties that attract advertisers looking for budget-friendly brand partnerships.

India's food regulator is planning stricter rules for healthier food options. Analogue paneer may soon face a nationwide ban as states already restrict it. The authority is also proposing rules for food sales near schools. Quick-commerce platforms will soon display product dates more prominently. These measures aim to promote safer and more nutritious food choices.

India plans to launch Bharat NCAP 2 from October 2027 for comprehensive vehicle safety.This new program will evaluate the entire safety chain of vehicles manufactured in India.Bharat NCAP, launched in 2023, already provides star ratings for passenger car safety.Vehicle testing costs in India are significantly lower than global standards.New systems will penalise repeat traffic violations and reward responsible driving behavior.

Advocating for dual GDP series, former chief statistician Pronab Sen argues that accurate double deflation is contingent upon extensive data on input and output prices. Following India's introduction of a new GDP series, unease surrounding the growth figures and protocols for the back series has surfaced, leading to an expected release from the NSO by December 2026.

Commerce minister Piyush Goyal invited global automobile companies to manufacture in India. He urged them to use India as a base to serve global markets. Goyal cautioned automakers about lack sheep not increasing localisation efforts. He stated that company-wise import and export data is being monitored. Leaders will attend the BRICS Leaders' Summit in India next week.

India and Belgium agreed to expand their partnership in defence and trade. Cooperation in defence and security is a key pillar of their relationship. Both nations will enhance military exchanges and training cooperation between them. They also agreed to strengthen intelligence sharing and cooperation against crime. Belgium conveyed solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism.

In response to escalating energy demands, the government is augmenting coal supplies from both captive mines and Coal India subsidiaries. This initiative aims to alleviate the concerning depletion of coal stockpiles at several power plants. Coal companies are being prompted to enhance their loading efficiency, while ongoing meetings will streamline coal production and logistics to maintain an uninterrupted supply flow to the power sector.

India remains the world's fastest-growing major economy, achieving 7.8% growth in Q1 FY27. The finance minister highlighted government focus on capital assets and MSME credit availability. Reforms like the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code ensure regulatory certainty for businesses. India's investment climate has improved significantly, attracting greater investor interest. These efforts align with the national vision for Viksit Bharat 2047.

Andhra Pradesh is seeking HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for a new shipbuilding cluster. The state offers the Kakinada port for this proposed $4 billion investment. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries previously signed an agreement with Tamil Nadu for a similar project. This initiative aligns with the Centre's Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme. The scheme received approval in September 2025 for development.

The services sector in India showed an uptick in August, spurred by increased business and consumer demand. However, this expansion was only the second-slowest since March 2022. Meanwhile, manufacturing faced challenges, hitting a five-year low. Composite growth remained steady, as services balanced out manufacturing's dip. Nevertheless, confidence among businesses for the upcoming year remained below typical levels.

Prime Minister Modi urged the Indian auto industry to innovate for Viksit Bharat by 2047. Adviser Tarun Kapoor stressed accelerating the electric mobility transition for energy security. He warned of increasing restrictions on four-wheelers, especially in urban areas. Government reforms and incentives are boosting domestic manufacturing capabilities and EV adoption. Industry must prepare for eventual tapering of subsidies and policy changes.

City gas distributor Think Gas urges a thirty percent reduction in LNG terminal usage charges. High regasification and truck loading fees currently hinder third-party LNG terminal use. The company also highlighted unreasonable boil-off gas charges imposed by terminal operators. These costs artificially inflate prices and impede natural gas market growth. Think Gas seeks moderation of charges for the proposed Indian Gas Exchange platform.

India is set to wrap up its trade negotiations with the United States shortly. A crucial aspect of this deal includes securing preferential tariffs to outperform its rivals. The minister emphasized that the accord will not undermine any Indian sensitivities. Meanwhile, India is also engaging in discussions for trade agreements with multiple countries to boost the international availability of Indian products.

Cohance Lifesciences announced an eighteen million dollar investment to strengthen its antibody-drug conjugate strategy. This includes thirteen million dollars for NJ Bio, increasing Cohance's ownership to sixty-seven point three percent. An additional five million dollars will give Cohance a sixty-five percent stake in Aruka Bio. These transactions aim to integrate NJ Bio's services with Cohance's manufacturing capabilities. Completion of these strategic investments is expected by September twe

The popular idea of trees sending messages to one another through a forest is fascinating, but scientists caution against oversimplifying the process. VOC signalling can vary widely depending on the plant species, environmental conditions, chemical concentration, wind patterns and the specific properties of the compounds involved.

Thirteen-year-old Myreen Ahsan is at the forefront of innovation, delving into the realms of advanced AI tools to aid brain cancer research. Focusing on glioblastoma, she utilizes RNA-based aptamers to selectively target malignant cells. Through self-learning and persistence, Myreen has successfully presented her findings at a university symposium, aspiring to spark further medical breakthroughs and inspire her peers in scientific inquiry.

The quote of the day by Jenna DewanTheres a reason women are pregnant for nine months; by the end, youre ready to have this baby explores theStep Upstars thoughtful perspective on pregnancy, motherhood and the way time prepares us for lifes biggest changes. Her words offer a powerful reminder about patience, personal growth and embracing new beginnings.

United Breweries Ltd sees India as central to Heineken's growth agenda. The Indian market is experiencing rising premiumisation and offers significant expansion opportunities. Heineken NV plans to expand Ebitda margins in India over the medium term. The company highlights its strong brand portfolio and 100 percent localisation of requirements. State-level reforms are accelerating category growth and creating attractive opportunities.

Quote of the day by Lily Tomlin: American actress Lily Tomlin shared a quote about the challenge of staying relevant. She noted that finding interesting or funny commentary on current events is difficult. This reflects the unpredictable nature of creativity and the role of serendipity. Tomlin, known for Laugh-In and Grace and Frankie, has a celebrated career.

Sai Kiran Bhagavatula left his IT career to launch Wildlife Whisperers in 2023. This venture teaches corporate lessons by observing animal behaviour and ecosystems. His programs combine wilderness experiences with learning and behavioural science principles. The bootstrapped company generated eighty lakh rupees in revenue during its first year. This unconventional career path demonstrates that lessons can emerge from unexpected sources.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan urged banks to expedite loan approvals for rural women entrepreneurs. He directed officials to enhance training and establish a helpline for Self-Help Group members. The government aims to provide ten lakh crore rupees in loans over five years. This initiative seeks to empower women and foster economic development across India. Discussions will inform the Financial Inclusion 2.0 agenda for better credit access.

Hanuman Ansh has become an unexpected blockbuster this year, made on an unbelievably low budget of merely Rs 1.7 crore. The film, which follows the life story of Indian ascetic and guru Neem Karoli Baba, is now on its way to cross Rs 70 crore across India. The director recently requested Virat Kohli and his wife, Anushka, to watch the film.

SpiceJet is seeking funds through the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme. The government is pushing the airline to increase its operational capacity. Discussions are ongoing regarding SpiceJet's financial and operational challenges. The Civil Aviation Minister confirmed these interactions with the airline. The government monitors airfares and has an ATF price stabilisation scheme.

French retailer Carrefour eyes acquisitions to rapidly expand its Indian presence. The company plans to open fifty stores within three years through its partnership. Carrefour is abandoning its large hypermarket model for smaller, more productive formats. It will also focus on competitive pricing and rebuilding its product assortment. India is also seen as a potential global sourcing base for Carrefour's operations.

Deleting photos in Google Photos can remove them from your device and other synced devices. Users should use the 'Free up space' option to reclaim phone storage safely. The 'Delete from device' command removes individual photos from the phone while keeping cloud backups. Backed-up items remain in Trash for sixty days, offering recovery time. Understanding these distinct commands protects years of cherished photographs.

India aims for one trillion dollars in exports this year, seeking automotive industry growth. The government encourages companies to increase local production and pursue international markets. Automakers must reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic supply chains for critical components. New trade agreements and global partnerships will help expand the industry's presence. Investment in research and development will support manufacturing capacity for future mobility needs.

Higher FCNR(B) inflows are complicating the Reserve Bank's liquidity management. The banking system currently holds excess liquidity at a four-year high. Economists anticipate the RBI will deploy additional tools to absorb surplus funds. These measures may include variable rate reverse repo operations and incremental CRR hikes. Forex reserves have reached a record high of USD 729.3 billion.

Maharashtra aims to make Mumbai slum-free within the next decade. The state is pushing for 10,000 homes in Dharavi by January 2029. Redevelopment of BEST bus depots will create mixed-use urban spaces. Mumbai 3.0 expansion includes new smart cities and an offshore airport. These projects will reshape the region's economic landscape and growth.