Economy / The Economic Times
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlights the success of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. Over 56 crore Jan Dhan accounts opened in 11 years. These accounts brought millions into formal banking. Total deposits reached Rs 2.68 lakh crore. More than 38 crore RuPay cards issued for digital transactions. The scheme focuses on financial inclusion for rural areas and women.
TVS Motor Company has launched the TVS Orbiter, its new entry-level electric scooter, priced at Rs 99,900 (ex-showroom). Bookings are now open for the Orbiter, which boasts a commuter-style design, a range of 158 kilometers, and features like SmartXonnect app connectivity, cruise control, and ample storage. It is available in six variants and two color options.
Linkin Park is set to electrify Mumbai as a headliner at Lollapalooza India 2026, marking their debut performance in the country. Mike Shinoda expressed the band's excitement to finally play for their passionate Indian fans. The concert at Mahalaxmi Racecourse on January 25 is part of their 'From Zero World Tour,' commencing in August 2025.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist, highlights that while moderate coffee consumption offers health benefits like reduced risks of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, these advantages can be negated by excessive sugar and cream. He advises opting for black coffee or minimal additives to maximise health benefits. Read on!
At the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Tianjin, the revival of the Russia-India-China (RIC) troika is under consideration. Moscow aims to resurrect the alliance as a shield against political and economic isolation amid trade tensions. However, historical rivalries and economic imbalances complicate the cohesion of the RIC, particularly between India and China.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is making significant progress, particularly in Gujarat, where stations are nearing completion. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the inaugural bullet train service is imminent. This high-speed rail will drastically reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to approximately two hours and seven minutes.
The Indian government is poised to simplify the GST structure, reducing tax slabs and rates on key consumer goods. This overhaul, expected to boost consumption by 0.2-0.3% of GDP, will make items like food products and durables more affordable. The move, coupled with potential RBI rate cuts, is anticipated to spur demand and benefit various sectors.
Archana Puran Singh and her son, Aaryamann Sethi, shared a heartfelt conversation. They remembered Aaryamann's difficult time with depression while studying in London. Aaryamann broke his leg, hindering his football dreams. He isolated himself for a year. Aaryamann emphasized the importance of mental health. He highlighted that his struggles were real, despite external perceptions of privilege and support.
The US Open 2025 continues with exciting matches. Jannik Sinner faces Alexei Popyrin. Iga Swiatek plays Suzan Lamens. Coco Gauff battles Donna Vekic. The tournament boasts a record $90 million prize pool. Winners in both men's and women's singles will receive $5 million. Matches are scheduled across various courts. Fans can watch live on ESPN and stream on Fubo.
Arvind Kejriwal criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government for allegedly betraying Indian farmers by removing import duties on American cotton under pressure from the US. He argued that this decision would make American cotton cheaper, harming Indian farmers' ability to compete.
A new case of amoebic encephalitis has been confirmed in Kozhikode, Kerala, affecting a 43-year-old woman. This brings the total number of patients receiving treatment for the rare brain infection at Kozhikode Medical College to ten, including four children. The infection, caused by amoeba found in contaminated water, has affected individuals from Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Malappuram districts.
Coffee lovers can rejoice as new research suggests moderate coffee consumption has several health benefits. Neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar shares detailed insights on the advantages and risks of drinking coffee. Studies indicate coffee may lower the risk of diabetes, liver disease, and even Parkinson's. However, excessive caffeine can cause anxiety and sleep problems. Read on to know how to drink coffee smartly!
The Central government has addressed the Supreme Court. It stated that state governments cannot challenge the President and Governor's actions on assembly-passed bills. This involves using writ jurisdiction. The President seeks the court's opinion on states filing petitions under Article 32. The query also includes the scope of Article 361.
JM Financial has suggested narrowing Indias inflation tolerance band to 11.5% from the current 2% for stronger policy impact. The RBIs framework targets 4% inflation within a 26% range. A tighter band, similar to peers like Indonesia, could boost credibility. Headline inflation remains more relevant for India due to foods high weight in household budgets.
Nykaa, India's leading beauty retailer, is venturing into global markets. It is launching Kay Beauty in the UK across Space NK stores and online. The company is also considering expansion into the US, Middle East, and Asia. Nykaa aims to significantly increase the gross merchandise value of its in-house brands by 2030.
NFRA Chairperson Nitin Gupta emphasized the importance of audit committees ensuring auditor independence and good corporate governance. He highlighted fundamental principles for sound financial reporting, including the crucial role of external auditors. Gupta also stressed the need for comprehensive internal controls and risk management systems for effective governance.
House of the Dragon Season 3 is generating buzz. New characters are coming. Adam Brown and Graham McTavish from The Hobbit join the cast. Rumors suggest Ser Cristan Cole might be beheaded. A fan account leaked this information. Glendon Footly will play the Lord of Tumbleton. Leaked scenes are circulating online. The season finale is titled 'The Final Tumble'
Jyoti Jeetun, Mauritian Minister, is in India to discuss trade and economic cooperation. Discussions include the CEPA agreement, focusing on trade in goods and services. The double taxation avoidance agreement is also under review. Both countries are exploring trade settlements in local currencies. This initiative aims to reduce Mauritius's reliance on the US dollar.
Indias beauty industry is booming, with 1.29 million cosmetic procedures in 2024, led by Botox, HydraFacials, and injectables. Rising incomes and social media have made treatments mainstream, but risks loom. Experts warn of untrained practitioners, unsafe procedures, and fatal mishaps, urging tighter regulation as the market heads toward $34 billion by 2028.
Rivers shape civilizations and sustain life. Discover the 9 countries with the highest number of rivers, from Asia to South America, each boasting unique ecosystems and cultural significance.
Want smoother protein digestion? Cambridge details papayas enzyme power. Marinate cold, time it right, then cook to lock tenderness without overdoing itpractical steps for better breakdown and amino acid availability
Malayalam cinema sees its first female superhero film, Lokah - Chapter 1 - Chandra. The film is produced by Dulquer Salmaan and stars Kalyani Priyadarshan. Initial reactions are positive, praising the engaging first half and impressive interval twist. Viewers highlight the visuals, background score, and performances of Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen.
The much-touted friendship between Donald Trump and Narendra Modi reportedly soured over several missteps and misunderstandings. Key incidents included Trump's offer to mediate on Kashmir, a missed meeting during the 2024 US elections, and disagreements over trade and India's relationship with Russia. Ultimately, a planned White House visit by Modi was canceled, signaling a significant strain in the relationship.
This has turned out to be precarious moment for the Indian garment industry as the implications of US tariffs extend far beyond financial figures. They touch the lives of countless workers who depend on the industry for their livelihoods, highlighting the fragile nature of global trade dynamics and their profound impact on local economies.
The Seamless Tube Manufacturers' Association of India (STMAI) asserts that India possesses ample seamless pipe production capacity to satisfy domestic needs. They are urging the government to take strong action against the increasing influx of inexpensive Chinese pipe imports, which are harming the local industry despite existing protective measures.
Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru achieves a significant milestone. It becomes the first Indian airport to secure Level-2 Accreditation from Airports Council International. This recognition highlights the airport's commitment to accessibility. The airport has implemented various initiatives for passengers with reduced mobility and disabilities. These include the Sunflower Lanyard scheme and a sensory room.
A recent survey reveals significant cost differences in NCR school education. Haryana leads with the highest average spending per student. Gurgaon's international schools contribute to this high cost. Delhi and Uttar Pradesh have comparatively lower expenses. Course fees and transportation are major cost factors. Spending patterns also vary across different schooling levels.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is considering stricter rules for shadow lenders, aiming to curb overlapping business activities between parent companies and their subsidiaries. This move aligns with existing regulations proposed for banks and seeks to mitigate risks within the non-banking finance sector.
Mohanlal and Sathyan Anthikad reunite after a decade with Hridayapoorvam. The movie, also starring Malavika Mohanan, is now playing in theaters. Audience have praised the film's humour and heartwarming story. Many are calling it an Onam winner. Read on!
Anurag Kashyap revealed that he initially wanted to make Nishaanchi with Sushant Singh Rajput, but the actor's commitments to Dil Bechara and Drive led to the project being shelved. Kashyap stated that Rajput stopped communicating, prompting him to move on. Nishaanchi now features Aaishvary Thackeray, Monika Panwar, Vedika Pinto, and Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub, exploring the complex relationship between twin brothers.
The Seattle Sounders dominated the Los Angeles Galaxy with a 2-0 victory, securing their spot in the Leagues Cup final. Goals from Pedro de la Vega and Osaze De Rosario propelled Seattle to victory. They are now set to face Inter Miami in the final, while the Galaxy will compete for third place against Orlando City.
Eating late at night can harm your health. It may cause digestion problems and weight gain. Poor sleep and blood sugar spikes are also risks. Heart problems could arise from late-night meals. Experts suggest eating dinner early. Light snacks are okay if needed. Avoid sugar and fried foods. Staying hydrated and planning meals helps.
Satish Kumar's tenure as Chairman Railway Board is extended. The Appointments Committee of Cabinet made the decision. Kumar will now retire on September 1, 2026. He assumed the role of Chairman and CEO on September 1, 2024. Kumar is an officer from the 1986 batch. His work includes the Fog Safe Device.
Jimmy Lai, founder of Apple Daily, faces national security law charges. Apple Daily launched in 1995 amid Hong Kong's handover anxieties. Lai opposed a controversial bill in 2019 and met US officials. Arrested in 2020, Apple Daily shut down in 2021 after asset freeze. Beijing intervened in 2022 regarding Lai's lawyer.
S Aswathy, daughter of a construction labourer from Kerala, overcame major financial challenges to achieve her lifelong dream of becoming an IAS officer. After graduating in Electrical Engineering and working at TCS, she dedicated herself to UPSC preparation, succeeding in her fourth attempt. Look at her journey and how she prepared for the exam.
Sunsure Energy has partnered with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam to supply 500 MWh of peak power from a battery energy storage system to Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation. The 15-year agreement involves Sunsure establishing a standalone BESS in Jhansi, delivering on-demand power during peak hours. This agreement marks a shift in India's energy storage, billing based on discharged energy.
A tragic incident occurred at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. Robin Westman, a 23-year-old, opened fire, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to seventeen others. Disturbingly, one of Westman's guns had 'Nuke India' written on it. Journalist Laura Loomer highlighted anti-Indian and anti-Jewish sentiments, also noting the phrase 'Israel Must Fall'.
Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has urged India to reconsider Russian oil imports after the Trump administration imposed 50% tariffs on New Delhis purchases. Rajan said refiners benefit from profits but exporters bear the tariff cost, calling the move a wake-up call for India to diversify trade and reduce reliance on any single partner.
Shell India launches its new brand film, Shell Chale Ban Ke Saathi. The film marks almost a century of Shell's presence in India. It highlights Shell's commitment to India's energy needs since 1928. The film showcases Shell's evolution, values, and partnerships. Shell aims to power progress together and build a lower-carbon future. Shell reaffirms its dedication to India's energy journey.
Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Travis Hunter, 22, and his wife, Leanna Lenee, joyfully announced the birth of their son in a YouTube video titled Dear Son. The video captured the emotional journey from discovering the pregnancy to the baby's arrival. The couple married on May 24, 2025, and have kept their pregnancy private until now.
India's Ambassador to Japan, Sibi George, underlined the importance of Quad amid the strained ties with the US and suggested that a discussion is likely to take place between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Ishiba, during the former's visit to Tokyo.
Yoga guru Ramdev has urged Indian citizens to boycott American companies and brands as a reaction to the US imposing 50% tariffs on Indian imports. He termed the US's action political bullying, hooliganism and dictatorship.
The United Auto Workers secured a victory at a Ford joint venture plant in Kentucky. The vote allows the union to represent workers at the electric vehicle battery production facility. However, the union contests 41 challenge ballots. UAW urges Ford to acknowledge the workers' decision to join the union. This win provides a boost to the UAW in the U.S.
In India, mischievous monkeys are making headlines with their audacious antics. From Auraiya's money rain caused by a primate flinging cash to a Vrindavan incident where a monkey snatched jewelry worth Rs 20 lakh, these encounters are both shocking and hilarious. These daring monkeys are stealing sweets, cakes, and valuables, leaving a trail of laughter and disbelief.
Delhi Police apprehended two Lawrence Bishnoi gang members after a shootout in New Ashok Nagar; one was shot in the leg. These individuals are linked to US-based gangster Harry Boxer. Separately, Jharkhand ATS successfully extradited Mayank Singh from Azerbaijan, a key connection between Aman Sahu and the Bishnoi gang, who faces 50 cases across multiple states.
Mohanlal's highly anticipated film, Hridayapoorvam, directed by Sathyan Anthikad, premiered today. The film, with music by Justin Prabhakaran, also stars Malavika Mohanan and Sangeeth Prathap in key roles. Produced by Antony Perumbavoor, Hridayapoorvam has already generated buzz with its feel-good narrative and nostalgic warmth. Read on to know where it will stream online!
House Foreign Affairs Committee Democrats have strongly criticised Donald Trump's administration for imposing tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases, questioning why China, a larger importer, was spared. They allege the tariffs are hurting Americans and damaging the US-India relationship, suggesting the decision isn't truly about Ukraine. The 50% tariffs on Indian imports to the US have now taken effect.
Gautam Adani's conglomerate is increasing female leadership, including family members, to meet diversity goals. Srushti Adani will lead digital initiatives, while Diva Adani will focus on airport business strategies. This move reflects a broader trend in Indian conglomerates, balancing family control with evolving roles for women in key decision-making positions.