The Economic Times

Union Minister Piyush Goyal represented India at the G20 Trade Ministers' Meeting, emphasizing the importance of the Most-Favoured-Nation principle. He stated that equal trading terms are essential for both large and small traders. Goyal expressed India's commitment to addressing trade distortions through WTO-compliant measures and preserving developing countries' policy space for industrialization. India's position on forced labor in global supply chains was reiterated during the discussions.

Mumbai's international airport will cut 265 weekly flights from October 25 as Terminal 1 undergoes redevelopment. The airport operator plans to allocate vacated international slots to domestic airlines transitioning from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2. Several airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, will have to reduce their overseas flight numbers significantly. IATA has expressed concerns over the transition framework for moving operations to Navi Mumbai airport.

Indias housing construction pipeline nearly doubled to $430 billion in 2025 from $235 billion in 2019, reflecting strong post-pandemic demand, according to a CREDAI-Anarock report. Residential projects accounted for 85% of total real estate under construction, while the broader pipeline across residential and commercial segments reached $503 billion in 2025.

What if humans could eventually live for 150 years, not through a simple extension of existing treatments but by actually turning back some of the changes caused by ageing? A Harvard scientist believes the first person to reach that age may already be alive today. His research into resetting ageing cells has now moved from promising animal experiments to an early human trial.

He was once the very epitome of the Indian success story. Meet Professor Nitin Gupta, who once left India to pursue a PhD in bioinformatics at the University of California, San Diego, and spent years at the National Institutes of Health in the USA before giving it all up and returning to India. Today, he is an associate professor at IIT Kanpur.

India has successfully exported 1 tonne of makhana from Purnea to Greece and 24 tonnes of frozen food products from Sonipat to Canada. These shipments are part of India's efforts to expand its overseas market for agricultural commodities. The commerce ministry highlights that Bihar produces about 80-85% of the country's makhana. The frozen food shipment from Haryana includes items like green peas and samosas.

ASCIs new AI advertising guidelines require disclosure of synthetically generated content (SGC) when hiding its AI origin could materially affect how consumers understand or act on an advertisement. The rules take effect three months after publication.

The population of New Zealand's endangered kkp has dramatically increased from 51 to 325 birds, thanks to a fruitful breeding season that produced 90 adorable chicks. This success is bittersweet, however, as conservationists now face the daunting task of sourcing predator-free habitats to support this growth. The ultimate aim is to create a safe haven on Rakiura/Stewart Island, but the species continues to rely heavily on protected environments for survival.

Apple has introduced a replaceable nano-texture cover layer for the inner display of its upcoming iPhone Duo. Users will be able to refresh the layer if it wears down or becomes noticeable over time. The replacement cost for customers with AppleCare+ will be $19, though prices for others remain undisclosed. Pre-orders will open on October 16, with the device available in stores from October 23.

India's foreign exchange reserves fell to $747.56 billion during the week that ended on September 25. This decline was primarily driven by a decrease in foreign currency assets, which dropped to $615.411 billion. India's gold reserves also saw a reduction, declining to $108.701 billion during this period. Special Drawing Rights and the reserve position with the International Monetary Fund also experienced declines.

Indias satellite internet sector is on the cusp of commercial launches as key players seek the last stages of approval. Companies like Starlink, OneWeb, and Reliance Jio have secured GMPCS licenses but still await spectrum allocations and regulatory nods. OneWeb is set to launch immediately after receiving the missing spectrum, while Jio envisions a robust satellite network for the future.

Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration has cancelled Cipla Pharma's distribution licenses due to serious violations. The FDA discovered irregularities with Reactin Plus Tablets, including misbranding and unsafe storage practices. Following inspections, it was revealed that expired medicines were stored incorrectly without proper documentation. The licensing authoritys decision was based on findings from earlier proceedings and legal directions.

The Reserve Bank of India has appointed Sudhakar Malli as Executive Director with effect from October 1. Malli, previously Chief General Manager-in-Charge of the Department of Supervision, will oversee its Supervisory Assessment function. A career central banker with around three decades of experience, he has extensive domestic and overseas supervisory experience.

India has expanded and diversified its energy system as its economy grows, with the country focusing on improving access, increasing renewable capacity and strengthening energy security.

As the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana's death approaches, interest in her legacy continues to grow. Reports suggest that Prince William has turned down multiple offers for documentary participation related to the anniversary. In contrast, Prince Harry is exploring ways to honour their mother, including the potential for a documentary. Princess Diana remains a significant topic of discussion, as demonstrated by numerous related projects.

On Instagram, Koushik Kharvis incredible journey from being a food delivery agent to becoming a successful entrepreneur went viral. The engineering graduate said that he once hid his job from his friends, as he did not want to be seen as a delivery boy.

Ajay Devgn is back as Vijay Salgaonkar in Drishyam 3: The Conclusion, which has arrived in theatres as the final chapter of the popular crime thriller franchise. As the film begins its theatrical run, viewers are already curious about when they will be able to watch the much-awaited conclusion from home. Early reactions have also focused on its suspense, twists and performances, adding to interest around what comes next for the franchise.

In October 2026, K-drama enthusiasts will be treated to an exciting lineup of premieres spanning various genres, including historical, medical, psychological thrillers, and romance. Titles such as 100 Days of Deception and Doctor X: Mafia in White promise gripping narratives and skilled performances. Furthermore, viewers can anticipate an array of fresh themes and international collaborations.

Reliance Industries announced a substantial investment of Rs 1 lakh crore in Andhra Pradesh for biogas plants. This initiative aims to create over three lakh jobs and generate revenue of nearly Rs 60,000 crore. The company will also support the establishment of the Rayalaseema Horticulture Hub and Indian School of Agriculture. Advanced technologies will be integrated with traditional farming knowledge to enhance agricultural practices.

India defeated China 1-0 in the women's hockey final on Friday to win gold at the Asian Games 2026. The victory also secured India's direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Indian women's team sealed the continental title after a closely contested final against hosts China.

Ronald Read did not work in finance. He spent about 25 years at a Vermont gas station before working as a janitor at J.C. Penney for another 17 years. He left the store in 1997. Yet Read quietly built an investment portfolio worth millions. After his death in 2014 at age 92, his estate was valued at nearly $8 million, including stocks and property.

Rick Ross has proven to be a savvy real estate investor, amassing an impressive portfolio of high-end properties. Among his most extravagant acquisitions are a breathtaking $37 million Miami mansion and a stunning $5.8 million estate in Georgia. His most recent purchase includes a $4.2 million mansion in Atlanta, previously owned by fellow rapper Meek Mill.

A meteorite impact thousands of years ago created a remarkable lake in Maharashtra, but the crater is only part of what makes it unusual. The water can appear green at one time and turn pink or red under certain conditions. The reason lies not in the lakes surface, but in the extreme environment beneath it, where salt-loving microorganisms thrive and produce pigments that can change the colour of the water.

The mandate covers Raymond Lifestyles portfolio, including The Raymond Masterbrands fine fabrics, ready-to-wear, made-to-measure and custom tailoring offerings, as well as ColorPlus, Park Avenue, Parx and Ethnix by Raymond.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the Centre absorbs a significant urea subsidy for farmers. This subsidy currently stands at approximately Rs 2,700 for each bag of urea. Sitharaman emphasised the government's commitment to providing essential farm inputs despite rising global prices. Additionally, her remarks highlighted ongoing efforts to support agricultural investment in Andhra Pradesh. These initiatives aim to ensure that farmers receive necessary resources and maintain

ICICI Life Insurance Company on Friday appointed Sidharatha Mishra as managing director and CEO, effective October 14. The appointment comes after current CEO Anup Bagchi resigned from the company, with his resignation taking effect on October 13. Mishra will succeed Bagchi as head of the life insurance company.

Swapan Dasgupta highlighted the need to repeal the Urban Land Ceiling Act for development in West Bengal. Developers expressed challenges in acquiring large land parcels due to existing regulations. The local real estate market is expected to thrive with government reforms and improved infrastructure. Kolkata's economic position can facilitate greater investment opportunities and development networks. Overall, sustained demand and rising land prices indicate a promising future for the sector.

In 2026, the Southwest monsoon recorded rainfall at 87 percent of the long-period average, the lowest since 2015. ICRA has lowered its agriculture growth forecast for FY27 to approximately 1 percent from 1.3 percent due to inadequate rains. Kharif sowing has decreased by 1.2 percent compared to last year, with rice and cotton crops showing notable reductions. Reservoir storage levels have significantly declined, raising concerns for the upcoming rabi season.

Nepal recorded 88,248 international tourist arrivals in September, with Indians accounting for the largest share at 17,425, up 12% year-on-year. Arrivals in the first nine months of 2026 rose 6% to 865,920. Nepal and northeast India also agreed to develop a Buddhist and cultural tourism circuit linking Lumbini with eight northeastern states.

Gypsy Rose Blanchards partner Ken Urker has died. He was only 34. In an interview, Gypsy claimed that some substance was found in the spot where he died, though she couldnt identify what it was. In another interview, she claimed he faced relentless cyberbullying across social media.

The Indian government has proposed amendments to the Petroleum Act, aimed at decriminalizing regulatory breaches. Violations of petroleum licence terms may incur civil penalties instead of criminal charges, promoting a more administrative approach. However, serious offences related to public safety will still face criminal prosecution under existing laws. The draft amendments outline significant penalties for various violations, including severe fines and imprisonment.

Vande Bharat milestone: The maximum permissible speed on the 111-km Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-Banihal railway section has been increased from 75 kmph to 100 kmph. A Vande Bharat Express successfully crossed the Chenab Railway Bridge, the worlds highest railway bridge, and Anji Khad Bridge, Indias first cable-stayed railway bridge, at 100 kmph. The speed upgrade is expected to reduce travel time and improve connectivity under the USBRL project.

Ansari, a Democratic member of the US House, is reportedly dating 24-year-old content creator Jack Cocchiarella. Ansari is 34, making her 10 years older than Cocchiarella. She joined Congress in January 2025 after serving on the Phoenix City Council. She is also the former vice mayor of Phoenix. Here is a look at Ansaris age, career, family background, work in Congress, reported relationship and financial disclosure.

Keventer Group and Saroj Poddar Group proudly unveil a Rs 400-crore investment fund tailored for real estate ventures. This fund implements a secured debt financing approach, focusing its efforts on projects within the Delhi-NCR and West Bengal regions. The enthusiastic sponsors, having pledged Rs 80 crore, are optimistic about the fund's prospects, which aims for a substantial gross internal rate of return between 18 and 22 percent.

Arizona State University has secured a groundbreaking $115 million gift to launch the Rob Walton School of Conservation Futures. This innovative initiative will provide unique undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to conservation and environmental management. The school aims to create developmental pathways for active conservation professionals while encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on experiences, set to commence in spring 2027.

HSBC has appointed Paras Jain as the global head of TMT investment banking, with a start date in November. Jain previously worked at Cantor Fitzgerald, where he built its technology investment banking group. This hiring coincides with HSBC's strategy to focus on financing areas with greater competitive strength. The bank aims to expand its market share in Asia and the Middle East's tech sectors.

Fieldmarshal PM Diesels recently launched single-cylinder engines in the 15 hp and 18 hp categories. The company intends to capture a 10-15 percent market share in the below-20 HP tractor segment within three years. These new engines comply with the latest TREM V norms and have been approved by ARAI. Fieldmarshal also plans to introduce tractors up to 30 HP in the near future.

A 30-year-old man in Singapore is facing criminal charges after allegedly sending an AI-generated image of a crocodile at Pandan Reservoir to a colleague. The fake image prompted authorities to launch a search operation and temporarily suspend water activities. Police later traced the image to him, with the case also involving allegations that he deleted the image and Gemini app history. He now faces charges that could carry prison terms of up to three and seven years respectively.

Ara derailment: The loco pilot of the Delhi-bound Sikkim Mahananda Express, which derailed at Bihars Ara Junction on September 7, had reportedly not completed the required route learning, according to railway records. The preliminary investigation found that the crew initially overshot a red signal before reversing the train, during which it derailed. The Railway Board had warned zones about such violations days before the incident.

At 70+ and 80+, Ten Bollywood Veteran Stars Are Redefining Fitness

A potential US diesel export ban could worsen an already tight global fuel market by removing about 1.2 million barrels a day of supply at a time when Middle Eastern, Russian and Chinese exports are constrained. Europe would be particularly exposed, while India could gain export opportunities for its refiners but also face higher crude and domestic fuel costs as global buyers compete for scarce diesel.

Andhra Pradeshs commercial tax collections rose 18% year-on-year to Rs 30,435.98 crore during April-September 2026, with September recording the highest monthly collection so far. Net GST collections increased 18% to Rs 19,635.49 crore in the first half of FY 2026-27, while September net GST rose 14.10%. The state attributed the growth to stronger compliance, enforcement, economic activity and technology-led tax monitoring.

Shyam Metalics and Energy has signed an agreement with the Maharashtra government for a significant investment. This investment will establish a greenfield steel complex in Chandrapur with a capacity of 9 million metric tonnes per year. The project is expected to create approximately 30,000 jobs, which includes both direct and indirect employment. Operations for the new steel plant are anticipated to commence in the ongoing financial year, pending necessary approvals.

China's recent export restrictions on oil products have affected several major importers in Southeast Asia and Australia. Singapore has seen a significant drop in gasoline imports from China this year, while Australia remains a key destination for jet fuel imports. The situation has led to increased pricing pressures as Asian refiners respond to tighter supplies. Local authorities in Australia affirm that current fuel stock levels are adequate despite these changes.

Ladakh has launched a pilot to grow high-value saffron on restored barren land in Leh, planting about 90,000 Iranian saffron corms across 4,000 square metres at Spituk Pharka. If successful, the project could diversify cold-desert agriculture and create a new income source for local farmers, youth and self-help groups.