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The Economic Times

Economy / The Economic Times

Govt in talks with banks to cut Kisan Credit Card interest subvention by 50 basis points

The government is discussing a 50 basis point reduction in interest subvention for Kisan Credit Card loans. This move aims to align subsidies with recent policy rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of India. Banks currently receive a 1.5% subsidy to offer loans at a 7% interest rate. Discussions are preliminary and part of extending the scheme until 2031-32. Farmers repaying promptly will continue to receive additional interest benefits.

17 Aug 2026 1:19 am
Ferrari's first all-electric car sells for record $40 million at auction

Ferrari's first all-electric vehicle sold for forty million dollars at auction. This sale established a new record for the most expensive new car ever sold. The Luce, a tailor-made electric model, faced criticism upon its unveiling in May. Ferrari's share price saw a drop after the initial announcement of the vehicle. The company recently raised its full-year guidance due to strong demand for limited-run models.

17 Aug 2026 1:18 am
Banks may rush to tap short loans abroad

Bankers said some lenders now plan to borrow more short-term funds, possibly at a higher rate, to finance the promised leverage to FCNR(B) clients after the Reserve Bank of India advanced the deadline for swap support. These funds will have to be replaced with a long-term loan or bond later, leading to a temporary mismatch between banks' foreign deposits and borrowings.

17 Aug 2026 1:07 am
GST cuts shield Indian carmakers from commodity price shock

Goods and services tax cuts offer carmakers a crucial buffer against rising commodity prices. Companies are employing various strategies to minimize product price increases and sustain demand. Internal cost reductions and selective price adjustments help absorb commodity shocks. Automakers are working to further reduce production costs for future resilience. Industry growth is expected to moderate from October onwards.

17 Aug 2026 1:04 am
SHANTI Draft Rules and Regulations: Single licence regime and technology from self-reliant countries proposed

Draft rules for the SHANTI Act are now public, opening India's nuclear power sector. A single licence will cover building, operating, and decommissioning nuclear plants. Private companies must provide mandatory insurance and financial security for waste management. Foreign reactors require certification from their country of origin or another trusted nation.

17 Aug 2026 12:58 am
NBFCs seek RBI rethink on revolving credit curb

Senior representatives of some of the country's largest NBFCs met on August 14 to discuss the issues they intend to raise with the RBI. The lenders will make a formal representation through the Finance Industry Development Council, the industry body representing NBFCs, this week, according to the people.

17 Aug 2026 12:55 am
Blue Dart sets sights on bigger e-commerce slice with cross-border delivery push

Blue Dart Express plans a new international cross-border ecommerce delivery product. This initiative aims to capture a larger share of India's growing global trade. The company will initially focus on major ecommerce corridors with strong existing trade flows. Regulatory changes, like the removal of a value cap, support this expansion. Blue Dart expects this new venture to become a meaningful contributor within five years.

17 Aug 2026 12:54 am
No need for fresh capital for five years: Shriram Finance CEO Parag Sharma

Parag Sharma expects the company, India's second-biggest non-bank lender by market value, to sustain 18-20% credit growth annually and maintain 8.5% margins, without having to raise capital every few years to expand its asset base.

17 Aug 2026 12:51 am
ICICI Prudential AMC to raise Rs 2k crore fund for Mumbai housing

Between 2020 and 2025, more than 1,100 society-level redevelopment agreements were recorded in Mumbai, unlocking around 432 acres of land. The financing requirement begins before construction, including society payouts, transit accommodation, premiums and approvals, while banks and NBFCs typically participate later at the construction finance stage.

17 Aug 2026 12:48 am
The next frontier in finance is not a bank. It is the machinery beneath it

The financial services landscape is evolving, emphasizing the importance of software and data infrastructures. In India, digital payments are surging, showcasing a strong shift toward online transactions. However, institutions grapple with legacy systems and fragmented data. As global account ownership climbs, theres a pressing need for speed and security in financial systems. The future hinges on leveraging AI and building robust infrastructures for continued growth and innovation.

17 Aug 2026 12:48 am
RBI moves to distance self from bank deposit ratings

The Reserve Bank of India has instructed rating agencies to refrain from categorizing it as the regulator overseeing bank deposits. This recent directive raises the possibility that these credit assessment organizations may halt the evaluation of bank deposits entirely. With threats of deposit outflows and potential bank instability stemming from any downgraded ratings, the landscape of retail deposit reactions remains mixed.

17 Aug 2026 12:46 am
In private healthcare's rise, price points are a big pain

In a recent proposal, a parliamentary committee has recommended that hospital room charges not exceed the rates of three-star hotels. The substantial growth of private healthcare as an industry has attracted considerable private equity investment, resulting in valuation spikes and shifts in ownership among hospital chains. However, this raises important questions about the accessibility of healthcare for the average person.

17 Aug 2026 12:40 am
Black & white then, colour now, whose cinema it is?

According to the Indian Copyright Act, 1957, the copyright of a film expires 60 years after its release. After the copyright expires, an IP owner loses exclusive rights to the film, which then enters the public domain. This makes the film's IP vulnerable, as anyone can colourise the film.

17 Aug 2026 12:37 am
Malls put eateries under scrutiny amid govt's hygiene crackdown

Amid increasing concerns over food safety and hygiene, Indian malls are ramping up their oversight of restaurant operations. Major mall operators have sent out new warnings to food and beverage tenants, responding to recent enforcement actions by food and drug authorities across various states.

17 Aug 2026 12:31 am
She moved from Alabama to Alaska in 1958 for a fresh start. Months later, the woman became the region's first Black lawyer and first Black homesteader

Mahala Ashley Dickerson moved from Alabama to Alaska in 1958 after being drawn to the territory during a vacation. She became the first Black homesteader in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and, months later, Alaskas first Black woman lawyer. She went on to spend decades fighting racial and gender discrimination and advocating for poor and underprivileged people.

17 Aug 2026 12:26 am
At 16, a seizure gave her a strange superpower: 16 years later, she still has the bizarre ability science finds difficult to explain

At just 16, Michal Sklar experienced a sudden medical episode that changed something about the way her brain worked. What she noticed in the days that followed was unusual enough to leave her confused, and even after years, the strange effect has not completely disappeared. Today, what began as a frightening experience has become an unexpected part of her daily life and something she has found a way to share with her family.

16 Aug 2026 11:59 pm
Now to have a ball in Galle

India reached 460 for 9 after two days of play in Galle. Devdutt Padikkal scored 167, his highest score in Sri Lanka. Dhruv Jurel provided stability with a crucial 51 runs. Rain interruptions limited play, impacting the overall match duration. India remains confident in their bowling attack to secure a result.

16 Aug 2026 11:59 pm
Not heart disease, doctor says he is scared of one silent killer which causes no pain, reveals five foods that can increase risk. This includes one vitamin C-rich fruit, weight watchers love

There are some diseases that are silent killers meaning, they often do not exhibit symptoms until it is too late. Taking to X, internal medicine expert Dr Priyam Bordoloi explained why kidney diseases scared him the most and five foods that can cause irrepairable damage to your kidneys.

16 Aug 2026 11:30 pm
Suvendu Adhikari to inaugurate Haldia Petrochemicals' Rs 6,000-crore phenol and acetone plant in October

First of its kind in the country, the plant will be developed under HPL's subsidiary Adplus Polymers & Chemicals. The facility is set to house the country's first on-purpose propylene plant based on olefin conversion technology and the country's largest phenol production unit in West Bengal's Haldia.

16 Aug 2026 11:06 pm
No supplements. 88-year-old grandma from America shares secret to her long life; it involves not just walking 10,000 steps but cutting out one food. Studies say this food can also make your skin age faster

A video of an 88-year-old woman who is robust and at the peak of health, even at an advanced age, has gone viral on Instagram. In the video she talks about how eating healthy and removing sugar from your diet can help you live long.

16 Aug 2026 11:03 pm
Donald Trump's envoys meet mediators, Israel strikes Gaza

Hamas officials were present at some of the meetings between mediators and with Trump's envoy and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and Nickolay Mladenov, Trump's Board of Peace envoy for Gaza, the diplomat said. A senior Israeli official said Kushner and Mladenov were scheduled to meet on Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who on August 9 said Trump's latest roadmap for Gaza peace was 'unacceptable'.

16 Aug 2026 10:58 pm
Mexican Proverb of the Day: The shrimp that falls asleep gets carried away by the current Meaning, life lesson and why this saying still matters

A traditional Mexican proverb serves as a critical reminder against complacency in our ever-evolving world. It underscores the importance of seizing opportunities to avoid future regrets and being outpaced by change. By recognizing moments that demand action, we can adapt and thrive amidst the shifting tides of modern life. This timeless wisdom still resonates today, highlighting the necessity of awareness and prompt decision-making in navigating lifes challenges.

16 Aug 2026 10:47 pm
Scientists from Kings College London turned an agricultural waste product into a bone-healing scaffold; keratin from sheeps wool produced more natural-looking regenerated bone than collagen in animals

Sheeps wool may soon have a surprising medical purpose. Scientists at Kings College London turned wool-derived keratin into a bone regeneration scaffold. In rat skull injuries, the material helped new bone grow with a more organized structure than conventional collagen scaffolds. The finding gives regenerative medicine a sustainable biomaterial from an abundant agricultural resource. It also raises a bigger possibility: waste wool could become a useful tool for future bone repair and tissue engi

16 Aug 2026 10:40 pm
I, Nobody OTT Release Date confirmed: When and where to watch the Prithviraj Sukumaran starer Malayalam thriller

Prithviraj Sukumarans I, Nobody is now set for its digital release after its theatrical run earlier this year. The Malayalam thriller follows an ordinary government employee whose routine life takes an unexpected turn after he gets caught up in a serious crime, putting him and his family in a difficult situation. Directed by Nisam Basheer, the film also stars Parvathy Thiruvothu and Hakkim Shajahan in key roles.

16 Aug 2026 10:29 pm
Lady Gaga often has whisky, is an adventurous eater, How does she keep fit? Her chef reveals, 'She stays away from

In an old interview, pop diva Lady Gaga opened up on a rather unconventional diet she once followed to keep in shape. She also admitted she drank often.

16 Aug 2026 9:39 pm
In 1894, a Jewish immigrant moved to North Dakota hoping for a new life after marriage. 42 years later, her memoir became a rare surviving record of Jewish homesteader life

A young immigrant arrived in America at a time when starting over meant leaving behind everything familiar and facing a very uncertain future. What followed was a difficult life far from the cities, shaped by family, survival and the challenges of settling in a new part of the country. Decades later, her own words would offer a rare glimpse into a world that had almost completely disappeared.

16 Aug 2026 9:05 pm
Not water. New York University-educated nutritionist says a far more hydrating beverage exists, with more number of electrolytes

Believe it or not, water is not the most hydrating drink you can have. In a recent interview, eminent nutritionist Joy Bauer revealed that water and not milk can do a much better job in keeping you hydrated than water here's why.

16 Aug 2026 8:32 pm
Railways to overhaul drinking water system across network

The new actions also include replacement of water tanks and strict compliance on regular water quality testing at source and outlet points. There will also be centralised monitoring and accountability, besides scheduled cleaning and maintenance of storage tanks.

16 Aug 2026 8:23 pm
PM GatiShakti: 396 infra projects worth Rs 18.66 lakh crore recommended for approval

Nearly four hundred infrastructure projects have been recommended for approval under the PM GatiShakti initiative. These projects, valued at approximately eighteen lakh crore rupees, aim to boost national connectivity. The Network Planning Group has evaluated these proposals, with many already sanctioned and under implementation. This initiative seeks to integrate infrastructure and reduce overall logistics costs across the country. Experts believe Gati Shakti will enhance business competitivene

16 Aug 2026 8:10 pm
Jinny Lu, the South Korean dog rescued from the meat trade, wins worlds ugliest dog crown after four attempts

Jinny Lu, a once-overlooked pug rescued from South Korea, took home the title of World's Ugliest Dog in a competition that values uniqueness and highlights the importance of adopting pets in need. Having previously placed second, her triumphant win showcases that a dog's worth transcends mere appearances. This event not only celebrates diverse beauty but also advocates for providing every dog with a loving forever home.

16 Aug 2026 8:05 pm
Iran economy begins to recover after war as business activity picks up

Iran's economy shows signs of recovery from recent war impacts. Economic activity is gradually resuming, according to the Iran Chamber of Commerce. Purchasing Managers' Index reports indicate relative improvement in economic conditions. Private sector efforts and government engagement are contributing to this positive trend. Sustaining this recovery requires greater international engagement from Iran.

16 Aug 2026 8:04 pm
Kareena Kapoors vegetarian co-star, 41, stays slim and looks young even though she doesnt diet, shares two eating rules that had been a gamechanger for her: It keeps your belly in control

You do not need to have a crash diet or diet at all to lose weight or maintain a great figure. Taking to Instagram, Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hai star Saumya Tandon revealed five rules she follows without fail to keep slim and look young.

16 Aug 2026 7:44 pm
Rs 2.5 lakh income at 28 makes him feel poorer than when he earned Rs 30,000: Is it just 'adulting' or a 'salary trap'

A 28-year-old man earning 2.5 lakh a month says he feels poorer and more stressed than when he earned 30,000, sparking a Reddit debate over whether rising responsibilities, higher expectations and the cost of living are behind the feeling. His experience has led users to discuss savings, lifestyle choices, job insecurity and whether earning more actually brings greater financial freedom.

16 Aug 2026 7:28 pm
Wrong diet can make your gut bacteria 'eat you': Feeding it the right food helps protect your body. Research reveals what to eat?

New research suggests that when gut bacteria do not get enough fibre and certain plant-based nutrients, they may begin breaking down the protective mucus lining of the intestines. The studies also found that indigestible plant proteins can give these microbes another food source, potentially shifting them towards producing more beneficial compounds.

16 Aug 2026 6:43 pm
Those seeking curbs on traditional Hindu festivals linked to urban Naxalism: Maharashtra minister

Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelar linked festival restrictions to urban Naxalism. He spoke at a Dahi Handi event, defending traditional Hindu celebrations. The government supported Govinda groups in legal battles over festival rules. Shelar stated concerns should not curb cultural events. He pledged to protect Marathi and Hindu festivals with precautions.

16 Aug 2026 5:58 pm
Sohail Khan reveals reason behind his 12-kg weight loss on The Alliance, says no ozempic, no fat burners

Sohail Khan candidly shared his reality show journey, highlighting his significant weight loss and the challenges he faced, including a stomach infection during his first week. The support from his fellow contestants compelled him to endure five weeks in the house. Notably, Sohail refused claims of using Ozempic or fat burners for his transformation, while his brother Salman Khan previously mentioned a twelve-kilogram weight loss.

16 Aug 2026 5:56 pm
How to use aluminium foil in the garden: 6 surprisingly useful ways gardeners use this to protect plants, reflect light and deal with pests.

Aluminum foil is a versatile tool for gardeners, offering a range of cost-effective solutions. For instance, reflective ground cover enhances sunlight exposure for plants, while strips hung around the garden can keep pesky birds at bay. By creating foil collars, gardeners can shield tender seedlings from crawling pests and minimize soil moisture loss.

16 Aug 2026 5:56 pm
Korean proverb of the day: Words without feet travel a thousand miles. Old saying warns us how rumours can make or break a reputation and to consider thinking before we speak or make a social media post

A carefully built reputation can be destroyed within minutes through a rumour. An old Korean proverb warns us about the power of words. Just like a great underground buzz can help an upcoming artiste, rumours of problematic behaviour can destroy a reputation within minutes.

16 Aug 2026 5:50 pm
Japanese proverb of the day: A dragon's head but a snake's tail. Life lesson on how a strong start does not guarantee a successful project and why consistency is king

Sometimes ambitious projects that start with great hype often fizzle out midway or crash and burn. An old Japanese proverb explains why it is not just important for a project to have a promise; you also need to have consistency for it to work.

16 Aug 2026 5:46 pm
Navi Mumbai Int'l Airport welcomes first foreign freighter cargo

Navi Mumbai International Airport welcomed its first international freighter flight. This marks a significant expansion of its cargo operations. The airport is adding thirteen new freighter services to its network. These services will connect Navi Mumbai to key Asian and European markets. This development strengthens the airport's role as a major logistics gateway.

16 Aug 2026 5:20 pm
Amber Enterprises to make Oppo, OnePlus, Realme phones in India from March 2027

Amber Enterprises will begin smartphone production for Oppo, OnePlus, and Realme in 2027-28. The company plans to produce eight million units in the first year of operations. Production is expected to scale to sixteen million units in the subsequent year. This move aligns with Chinese brands deepening their asset-light manufacturing models in India. Amber also anticipates margin pressure in its bare printed circuit board business.

16 Aug 2026 5:15 pm
Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train nears completion: Diamond-inspired Surat station takes shape; foundation work underway at BKC station

Construction on India's first bullet train corridor shows significant progress. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project is nearing its August 2027 launch. Underground work at Mumbai's BKC station is nearing completion. Surat station's structure is finished, with interior work now underway. This corridor will connect major cities and industrial hubs across three regions.

16 Aug 2026 5:04 pm
Make people remember you after every conversation: Try the 'Triangle Method' to assert confidence subconsciously for lasting impression

The way you look at someone while speaking can influence how confident, attentive and comfortable you appear, especially when meeting someone for the first time. A simple technique that has recently gained attention on social media offers a different way to approach eye contact without making conversations feel forced or awkward. While it has often been discussed in the context of attraction, the idea can also be useful in everyday social and professional situations, where making a good impressi

16 Aug 2026 4:53 pm
1 killed, 12 injured in horse carriage crash

Geneva: A horse-drawn carriage carrying tourists ran out of control in a Swiss resort killing one person and injuring 12, police said Sunday.About 40 people were on two carriages in woods in Val Roseg, near the border with Italy, on Saturday when the driver lost control, police said. A 73-year-old woman was killed and two of the injured were in serious condition.Also Read: Four Antonello da Messina artworks stolen in Renaissance painter's hometownOn a sloping stretch of the route, the driver rea

16 Aug 2026 4:35 pm
Tu kaise direct karega isse?: Aamir Khan initially doubted this directors first film. It later won a National Award

In an insightful revelation, Farhan Akhtar shared that Aamir Khan was initially sceptical about his directing prowess for the film Dil Chahta Hai (2001). Khan's doubts emerged because this was Akhtar's debut as a director. However, Akhtar's unwavering determination to helm the project ultimately won Khan over, leading to his participation in the film. This collaborative effort later earned the prestigious National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.

16 Aug 2026 4:27 pm
FSSAI says 6 food companies including Livyor, Rajasthan Agro corrected misleading labels, trademarks after notices

Six food companies have corrected misleading labels and trademarks after FSSAI notices. Livyor Ventures Pvt Ltd withdrew its 'vegan and healthy' claims on edamame beans. Honest Innovations For You Pvt Ltd and Heliostone Specialities Pvt Ltd revised their trademarks. Rajasthan Agro and General Industries removed all misleading claims and stopped PPM usage. Iota Nanotechnology Pvt Ltd removed claims and stopped non-standardized water production.

16 Aug 2026 4:05 pm
Australian regional leader to visit India; trade, investment ties in focus

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns will lead an official delegation to New Delhi and Mumbai from August 31 to September 3 to deepen trade, investment, education and cultural ties with India. The visit will focus on sectors including clean energy, critical minerals, technology, tourism, agri-food and advanced industries.

16 Aug 2026 3:39 pm