The Economic Times

At just 12 years old, Evan LaBelle discovered his passion for 3D printing, which ultimately led him to establish Autotiv Manufacturing. His company currently boasts an expansive production facility equipped with over 200 3D printers, catering to the aerospace and robotics sectors. Honored as Young Entrepreneur of the Year, LaBelle is celebrated for his innovative contributions and dedication to community.

The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) suspended operations at a railway base kitchen in Lucknow and cancelled the food registration of an establishment in Saharanpur after inspections uncovered food safety and hygiene lapses. The drive covered 41 railway catering units and two airline food suppliers. Officials seized 978 kg of unlabeled food items in Kanpur Nagar and collected 26 samples for laboratory testing.

India has instructed oil marketing companies to cease sugar diversion for ethanol production by the year 2026-27. This decision arises amid rising sugar prices and concerns over domestic sugar supply due to poor rainfall. Ethanol from sugarcane juice and other sugar-based feedstocks will not be included in the latest tender. The government aims to boost domestic sugar production and curb oil imports as part of its policies.

MacKenzie Scott has made a significant $15 million donation to the conservation organization Maliasili. This gift aims to enhance community-led conservation efforts throughout Africa, fostering sustainable ecological practices. Maliasili plans to strengthen over 100 African organizations and develop 400 leaders by 2030. Scott's funding will assist in mobilizing additional resources for these partner organizations over time.

New modelling suggests that eliminating modifiable health risks could add 12 years to healthy life expectancy at birth by 2050. Realising even part of this potential will require making prevention part of everyday life.

Varroc Engineering has announced a joint venture with Forsee Power to develop battery-pack solutions for electric vehicles. The collaboration will begin with battery packs for three-wheelers, with plans to expand into other vehicle segments. Varroc will acquire a 45 percent stake in Forsee Powers Indian subsidiary. This venture aims to combine expertise in battery technology and manufacturing for scalable solutions.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the importance of creating sustainably investable cities in India. She proposed a combination of public investment alongside private capital to achieve these goals. Various urban development initiatives have been established to support this approach effectively. The Urban Challenge Fund aims to improve municipal finances and is pivotal for project preparation. Overall, the strategies discussed will enhance urban planning and infrastructure developm

The Diplomat Season 4 leaves Kate and Hal facing a choice that could reshape their future. The finale raises questions about their loyalties, and where the Netflix thriller can go next.

Hazel Johnson transformed a personal tragedy into a lifelong battle against environmental pollution after losing her husband to lung cancer and witnessing health problems among her seven children. In 1979, she established the People for Community Recovery to demand cleaner air and water in Chicago. She was later recognised a sthe Mother of Environmental Justice Movement.

China said it was ready to work with India to allay its concerns of rising trade imbalance. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the trade imbalance was due to China's restrictions in market access to Indian goods and services. She said that India has not resorted to punitive tariffs to reign in large trade imbalances and prefers negotiations despite the process being time-consuming.

Sai Pallavi attended the international trailer launch of Ramayana, emphasising her preference for minimal makeup. She opted for a fresh-faced look, highlighting her natural features instead of bold cosmetics. The event featured her in a pink silk saree alongside understated accessories that complemented her appearance. Sai's consistent choice of simple beauty reflects a growing trend among celebrities favoring a natural aesthetic.

The Reserve Bank of India has approved the merger of Emirates NBD Bank's Indian branches with RBL Bank. This amalgamation will officially take effect on December 1, 2026, according to the central bank's announcement. Emirates NBD Bank initially opened its first Indian branch in Mumbai in 2017, expanding later to Gurugram and Chennai. The Finance Ministry had previously approved Emirates NBD's acquisition of a significant stake in RBL Bank.

Gold rate, silver price were up on Friday but both precious metals were jolted by weekly losses.

State-owned company HLL Lifecare launched HLL eStore, a digital platform aimed to expand access to its healthcare and wellness products across the country. The platform would be part of its broader digital transformation strategy, enabling customers, business partners and healthcare institutions to engage with the company through an integrated online marketplace. The eStore also offers medical products and supplies.

Carnation Hotels Private Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Omaxe Limited for a new hospitality venture. This partnership aims to operate 4,000 keys in key Indian destinations including travel and pilgrimage hotspots. The collaboration focuses on tier-two and tier-three cities to meet growing accommodation demands. Both companies bring extensive expertise in real estate development and hotel management.

National highway projects awarded experienced a 62.9% increase in distance during the April-September period. Electronic toll collection transactions also rose significantly, indicating increased digital use. Air cargo movement increased by 12%, and foreign tourist arrivals grew as well. The telecommunications sector expanded, adding over 29,000 kilometers of optical fiber cable. Overall, performance indicators across multiple infrastructure sectors have shown positive trends in FY27.

Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo is priced at Rs 2,99,900 in India, making it a premium option. The device features a larger display but compromises on camera specifications and battery life. Users will find a shift from Face ID to Touch ID for authentication, which may require adaptation. Repair costs for the Duo could add to its overall expense with potential high fees.

Diane Wilson, a Texas fisherwoman and a passionate advocate for the environment, has been at the forefront of the battle against plastic pollution instigated by Formosa Plastics. In 2019, she achieved a significant legal victory, securing a settlement that mandated no plastic waste discharge from the companys Point Comfort factory on Texas' Gulf Coast.

Indian Railways has stepped up its crackdown on unauthorised drone operations over railway tracks, stations and other infrastructure, citing safety and security risks. The action follows a Kollam court ruling that fined a man and sentenced him to one day of community service for illegally flying a drone over a railway line. The move could affect vloggers and rail enthusiasts filming trains, bridges, tunnels and scenic routes for social media without the required permissions.

Ayush-related Intellectual Property activity has seen substantial growth, with over 4,000 patent applications from 2014 to 2026. The Ministry of Ayush emphasises the increasing participation of individuals and institutions in this sector. Patent filings peaked post-COVID, reflecting a focus on research and innovation. Natural persons and educational institutions contributed significantly to the total filings and grants. The government continues to foster an enabling environment for traditional k

You Can See Everything is a new documentary detailing Elizabeth Holmes' life prior to her imprisonment. The film chronicles the 34 days leading to her federal prison sentence in 2023. Elizabeth Holmes, founder of Theranos, was convicted of fraud against investors and sentenced to over 11 years. The documentary features Holmes and her family, focusing on her story.

Indias foreign exchange reserves declined by nearly $60 billion in six weeks to $726.027 billion as of October 9, from a record high of $785.706 billion on September 4. The fall was largely attributed to the Reserve Bank of Indias intervention to support the rupee amid rising crude oil prices, higher US yields and sustained foreign investor outflows. Foreign currency assets and gold reserves also recorded significant declines during the reporting week.

Studies reveal that the quality of relationships and health behaviours are interlinked, impacting biological ageing processes. Couples typically engage in shared activities that can inadvertently promote unhealthy habits. Nevertheless, a strong relationship may inspire healthier lifestyle decisions. Earlier research has correlated marital happiness with better health and lower death rates, encouraging couples to reflect on their mutual practices for long-term health benefits.

Indian Gas Exchange has received regulatory approval to develop a capacity booking platform for LNG terminals. This platform aims to facilitate easier and more transparent access to terminal capacity for users. The regulator noted that many terminals experience poor capacity utilization currently. By using the platform, market participants can identify and book available regasification capacity efficiently. Contractual negotiations and settlements will still be managed directly between buyers an

Indian businesses are encouraged to utilise free trade agreements and the export promotion mission for expansion. Recent data shows that Indias merchandise exports have increased significantly over the past year. Services exports show a small decline yet cumulative growth remains positive compared to last year. Ongoing efforts aim to strengthen Indias overall export capabilities and international partnerships.

India is pursuing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union to increase exports. Indian Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar stated that bilateral trade is projected to reach USD 100 billion by 2030. The current trade turnover is reported at USD 38 billion for the first half of this year. Efforts are underway to diversify India's export basket and improve market access in Russia.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India issued notices to three companies for misleading health claims. Gemini Edibles & Fats India, as well as e-commerce platforms BigBasket and Flipkart India, were implicated. The claims regarding cholesterol and health benefits of rice bran oil do not comply with regulations. Furthermore, Gemini was found to lack a valid license for e-commerce activities.

India is becoming the fastest-growing polymer compound market globally, contributing 13 percent of a USD 75 billion industry. The market is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 16.5 billion by FY2031. Demand from the automotive and infrastructure sectors is driving this growth, alongside technological advancements in manufacturing. Significant expansion in electricity networks and pipelines is projected to fuel demand further.

India requires an expansion of its healthcare infrastructure with an additional 2.6 billion sq ft by 2035. This need arises due to an expected demand for nearly 2.9 million more hospital beds nationwide. Current statistics show India has only 1.6 hospital beds per 1,000 people, significantly less than the global average. Certain states face much lower hospital bed density compared to their disease burden, indicating unmet healthcare needs.

Indias foreign exchange reserves fell by $8.578 billion to $726.027 billion in the week ended October 9, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The decline followed a $12.952 billion drop in the previous week. Foreign currency assets and gold reserves recorded significant declines, while special drawing rights and Indias reserve position with the IMF also fell.

Aurum PropTech announced a 57% increase in total income during the second quarter of FY27. This growth is attributed to improved profitability and the integration of artificial intelligence systems. The adjusted operating margin showed a significant increase, reaching 11.5%, marking a positive trend. Additionally, the company's various platforms reported strong performance and enhanced revenue productivity from AI initiatives.

Jasprit Bumrah, the celebrated Indian cricketer, resides with his family in an elegantly Ahmedabad home. This residence features contemporary aesthetics and a dedicated mini-gallery that highlights his cricket achievements and memorabilia. The spacious living area is illuminated by large windows, creating an airy atmosphere. Furthermore, Bumrah has included a personal gym, ensuring he remains fit and healthy, reflecting a harmonious blend of luxury and his sports legacy.

Ladakhs infrastructure plan: 5 projects worth 3,350 cr to boost air connectivity, roads, tourism

MINI Cooper Oxford Edition specifications: MINI has launched the Cooper Oxford Edition in India at Rs 55.50 lakh (ex-showroom) on Friday, October 16, celebrating 25 years of modern MINI production at Plant Oxford in the UK. Available in limited quantities, the special edition features Union Jack-inspired styling, two exterior colour options, JCW sport seats, a 240mm circular OLED touchscreen and a 204 hp petrol engine. Bookings are open at authorised MINI India dealerships, with deliveries comme

In an exciting development, Apple has rolled out a pre-order feature enabling customers to secure their purchases ahead of time. The iPhone Duo, boasting a foldable design, will be up for pre-order on October 16, with deliveries kicking off on October 23 across various countries, including India. Priced at $1,999 in the United States, it stands as a high-end option.

Federal Bank has appointed Rajesh Varrier as a non-executive independent director on its board. This decision follows the announcement of the bank's impressive financial results for the September quarter. Varrier previously served as president of global operations at Cognizant and brings extensive management experience. The bank reported a significant rise in net profit and net interest income in comparison to last year.

MoSPI is conducting new surveys, including one on cooperatives, to improve India's economic data, Secretary Saurabh Garg said. He expressed confidence in the country's growth trajectory after GDP expanded 7.8% in the first quarter, while highlighting inflation concerns, gaps in measuring household work and care activities, and methodological improvements to national accounts.

Centre has received administrative approval for rules under the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, and expects to publish them within two weeks, the Supreme Court was informed on Friday. The court is hearing a plea seeking independent aviation regulation, greater passenger protection and safeguards against unpredictable airfares and ancillary charges.

The film Hanuman Ansh has grossed nearly Rs340 crore at the box office, which is unprecedented for its modest budget. Producer Namrata G Singh emphasizes the significance of preserving intellectual property in storytelling. The film, rooted in spirituality, explores the life of Neem Karoli Maharaj and his connections with devotees. It also aims to expand into various formats and languages to reach global audiences.

At 75, superstar Rajinikanth still wows fans with his energy, fitness, and lively way of living. During a recent interview, Mirnaa Menon, his Jailer 2 co-star, shared her insights on the veteran actor's eating habits and daily activities. In an interview with Cinema Vikatan, she disclosed that Rajinikanth stayed physically active and persisted with his exercise routine even in locations lacking gym facilities.

Omaxe Ltd has signed an MOU with Carnation Hotels, a subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels, for new hotel projects. This collaboration will focus on developing ten hotels in various key Indian cities, totaling about 4,000 keys. The projects will require an estimated investment of Rs 4,000 crore, with timelines ranging from nine months to five years. Omaxe plans to fund the developments through sales proceeds, avoiding loan funding.

Shoppers Stop reported a slowdown in second-quarter same-store sales growth as a delayed festive season weighed on store traffic, sending its shares down 5.4%. Same-store sales growth fell to 2% from 6% in the previous quarter, although the retailer posted a net profit and an 8.7% rise in operating revenue.

A recent survey reveals that comfort tops the list of priorities for young Indian consumers when selecting festive footwear. Approximately 58.1% of participants intend to spend under Rs 2,000 on their buys. Ethnic styles maintain their appeal, with 30.3% favoring this category, despite evolving fashion trends. Both discounts and overall shopping experiences significantly sway purchasing choices, while only 46.2% of high-intent shoppers plan to include footwear in their festive shopping.

Rashmika Mandanna channels divine Shakti in a Rs 1,31,600 ivory handloom silk saree by Mrunalini Rao, styled as Jayamma in Ranabaali. The ensemble features a richly embroidered crimson blouse, gold jewellery and a red gajra. Its colours evoke peace, purity and Goddess Durgas power. Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, the period action drama stars Vijay Deverakonda as a warrior resisting British colonial oppression in 1870s South India.