The Economic Times

A 25-year-old Chandigarh entrepreneur has shared his unconventional workplace practices, including paying employees 2X when they work on their days off, allowing staff to roast him and discussing company numbers openly. Pratham Jindal also said he prioritises employees over difficult clients and spends on month-end parties, describing the approach as lessons from building his company rather than formal business rules.

Foreign institutional investors sold over Rs 26,000 crore of Indian shares in three sessions, intensifying Septembers market correction. High crude prices, elevated US bond yields and a weaker rupee pressured equities, while analysts said selective opportunities are emerging across largecaps.

The government extended the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products scheme until December 31, 2026. This extension ensures that exporters receive continued refunds for eligible duties and taxes incurred during production. The existing rates and caps for the scheme remain unchanged during this period. RoDTEP was introduced to help prevent embedded taxes from affecting the pricing of Indian goods abroad.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav launched guidelines for the National Coastal Mission 2.0 on Wednesday. The mission aims to enhance conservation and management of coastal and marine ecosystems across India. It has an approved outlay of Rs 767 crore for the period from 2025-26 to 2030-31. This phase also promotes a streamlined implementation framework for better ease of doing business.

Crisil has raised its GDP growth forecast for India in FY27 to 7%, reflecting strong domestic demand. Resilient consumer spending and government investment are key factors supporting this growth projection. However, potential inflation risks from a strengthening El Nino and elevated energy prices may pose challenges. The Reserve Bank of India might respond with rate hikes to manage inflation pressures.

India has invited the global mining community to participate in India Mining Week 2026, scheduled for November. This event aims to foster international collaboration, investment, and expertise in the mining sector. The Ministry of Coal and Ministry of Mines are organizing the conference-cum-exhibition together. Diplomatic representatives have discussed enhancing country-level engagement for the event's success. Officials believe this collaboration will strengthen the mining and minerals sector f

Crisil Ratings stated that India Inc will manage the expected 0.50 percentage point rate hike. The agency also indicated that rural demand would remain unaffected by weather-related shortfalls. Credit performance outlook is stable despite geopolitical tensions from Middle Eastern conflicts. Growth in the banking system's credit and overall corporate credit stability appears promising for FY27.

Indias external financial position improved marginally in Q1 FY27, RBI data showed. External debt rose $15.4 billion to $778.2 billion, while the debt-to-GDP ratio eased to 20.8%. Net international liabilities increased to $220.3 billion but remained below year-ago levels.

Gandhi Jayanti 2026 Theme, History: October 2 marks the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, whose leadership, Satyagraha and commitment to non-violence played a major role in Indias freedom struggle. The day is observed as a national holiday in India and is also recognised by the United Nations as the International Day of Non-Violence, highlighting Gandhis enduring global legacy.

India's total external debt rose by USD 15.4 billion to reach USD 778.2 billion by June 2026. The external debt-to-GDP ratio showed a slight improvement, decreasing to 20.8 percent. Long-term obligations grew to USD 624.7 billion, while short-term debt slightly increased to 19.7 percent of overall external debt.

School assembly news headlines for October 1 bring the latest updates from India, international affairs, sports and business. Key stories include Indias Asian Games gold medals, major government decisions, global developments, security operations, Mumbais property market, automobile price changes and important developments in the energy and cement sectors.

Introducing the conference, Manju Dixit, All India Women Convener of BKS, called for a change in the traditional perception of women farmers.

An Indian-origin resident of Norway has drawn attention online after comparing the cost of everyday vegetables in the two countries and questioning whether low prices in Indian cities translate into fair earnings for farmers. His post highlighted sharp differences for lemons, tomatoes and cucumbers, prompting users to debate purchasing power, supply and demand, agricultural regulation and the role of intermediaries.

India's gems and jewellery sector currently accounts for 8% of global exports but can expand into new product categories. NITI Aayog's Pravakar Sahoo emphasized the need for greater value addition and improved global market presence. Collective efforts are essential among industry players, government, and consumers to ensure competitive growth in the sector. Enhanced transparency regarding diamonds can improve trust and boost consumer confidence in India.

Indias southwest monsoon ended with rainfall 12.6% below average, making it the fourth-lowest monsoon rainfall since 2001, according to the IMD. The weather office expects below-average rainfall in October, while most parts of the country are likely to receive below-normal rainfall during the broader October-December period.

Air France-KLM is set to increase its weekly flight frequency in India from 42 to 54. This decision aligns with the growing demand for passenger travel throughout the region. Additionally, the company intends to explore partnerships for sustainable aviation fuel production in India.

Tahir Raj Bhasin gained limelight with his debut film, the 2014 Rani Mukerji-starrer Mardaani. Despite playing an antagonist, the actor became a fan favourite and gained critical acclaim for his performance as Karan Walt Rastogi in the crime drama. Bhasin recently recalled how, despite coming from a family full of Air Force officers, he walked a different path.

India's women's hockey team secured a significant victory against South Korea with a score of 2-0. Ishika Chaudhary and Salima Tete scored the goals to ensure their place in the final. The team's next challenge is a match against defending champions China. India dominated possession throughout the match and earned numerous penalty corners. South Korea attempted a late comeback, but India's defense remained strong to secure the win.

Indias economy is set to grow 7% in FY27, according to S&P Global, which sees domestic demand, private investment, manufacturing, trade, energy security, renewable power, digital infrastructure and technology shaping Indias next phase of economic growth.

Indian government bonds closed the quarter at their weakest levels in more than two years. Fluctuations in oil prices and rising global yields influenced market conditions significantly. Anticipations regarding rate increases by the Reserve Bank of India affected bond supply fears after increased long-term bond issuance. India's inflation rate in August exceeded the RBI's medium-term target, showing persisted price pressures.

INDIA Blocs action plan against SIR, Gyanesh Kumar: Protests from Oct 2, rallies announced

India Mobile Congress 2026, scheduled to take place in New Delhi from October 7 to 10, centers on enhancing global connectivity. With themes like growth, opportunity, trust, and future-building, the event will bring together top industry leaders to discuss advancements in technology and government initiatives aimed at establishing scalable digital frameworks for the future.

Build Communities, Not Followers YouTube India MD Gunjan Soni's formula for Creators

India's Kaveri dry engine has completed high-altitude and flight trials in Russia, recording 48.5 kN of peak dry thrust against its target of 46 kN. Developed by DRDO, the engine is intended for India's planned Ghatak stealth UCAV.

In many Indian families, unique traditions are cherished and passed down through the years. A particularly noteworthy practice involves encasing remote controls in plastic to keep them clean and fully operational. Advocates of this custom argue it's a practical solution to prevent grime and spills. This topic sparked lively conversations on Reddit, with users recounting their own quirky household rituals that outsiders might find odd yet meaningful in Indian culture.

India's business landscape showed remarkable resilience as confidence levels surged by 5.6% in the first half of FY27 according to the ASSOCHAM Business Confidence Index. Spanning from April to September 2026, the index illustrates notable growth even in the face of persistent challenges like inflation and rupee depreciation, especially in July, August, and September.

As FY27 progresses, India's fiscal deficit climbed to an alarming Rs 7.10 lakh crore within the first five months, representing 41.9% of the projected budget for the year. The total receipts amounted to Rs 13.68 lakh crore, aligning at 37.5% of the total budget. Meanwhile, government spending hit Rs 20.78 lakh crore, with major subsidies also rising to Rs 1.87 lakh crore amidst continuing fiscal challenges.

Indias rice industry is looking beyond raw grain exports to higher-value products such as noodles, bran oil, protein, specialised ingredients and rice-husk-based materials. An IREF-EY assessment at the Bharat International Rice Conference 2026 will identify which products offer the strongest combination of demand, margins, investment potential and export opportunity.

Canon India has ambitious plans to grow by reaching over 10,000 active resellers by 2027. The company anticipates growing demand in smaller Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities as key segments drive growth. Canon's current strategy includes enhancing its omni-channel retail presence, combining offline and online sales. The imaging market is evolving with a shift towards mirrorless cameras and videography.

Indias campus hiring market remains resilient as employers focus on skills, critical roles and job readiness, according to Aons Campus Study Report 2026-27.The 15th edition of the study covers more than 220 organisations, 10 qualifications and 12 key industries. It found that 56% of organisations plan to increase hiring of Chartered Accountant and Company Secretary graduates.Around 51% expect to hire more interns, while 40% plan to increase recruitment of diploma holders and 36% expect to hire m

Coca-Cola Co. plans to submit a draft prospectus by December for the anticipated IPO of Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt. This offering, projected to garner about $1 billion, is expected to attract existing investors. With a valuation close to $10 billion, the deal highlights India's thriving investment landscape. The company has teamed up with various banks to streamline the process, riding the wave of recent IPO successes in the region.

The Indian men's compound archery team secured a Gold medal at the Asian Games 2026. They achieved this victory by defeating China in the finals. In the semifinals, the team overcame South Korea with a score of 236-229. Additionally, the duo of Chikitha Taniparthi and Sahil Jadhav won Gold in the compound mixed team event.

India and Qatar have agreed to accelerate discussions on a Bilateral Investment Treaty and Free Trade Agreement. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Qatars Minister of State for Foreign Trade reviewed investment opportunities in key sectors. Both nations aim to implement a USD 10 billion Qatari investment commitment and establish a QIA office in India. Sitharaman also emphasized the need for normal trade flows in the Gulf region.

The 20th Asian Games are currently taking place in Aichi-Nagoya from September 19 to October 4, 2026. Athletes from 46 nations are competing in 43 sports for a total of 469 gold medals. Currently, India holds the ninth position on the medal tally with 55 medals, which includes eight gold, 21 silver, and 26 bronze. China leads the medal table with 256 medals, followed by Japan and South Korea.

Priya Ghanghas earned a bronze medal in her debut after losing to Yang Chengyu in the semifinals. Indian boxers have improved their medal tally from the last edition with six medals. Parveen Hooda and Ankush Panghal are already in the finals for their categories. Narender Berwal previously secured a bronze medal in the superheavyweight division. Lovlina Borgohain and Kapil Pokhariya are aiming for gold later today.

The Indian Coast Guard and Gujarat ATS seized around 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine worth over Rs 3,000 crore in the international market after intercepting an Iranian dhow in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep. The September 25 operation, based on actionable intelligence, also led to the apprehension of five Pakistani nationals. The vessel and contraband were brought to Mumbai.

India's compound mixed archery team, comprising of Sahil Jadhav and Chikitha Taniparthi won a gold medal in Asian Games, beating Korea in a shoot-off.

Kolkata is gearing up for two major friendly matches against Brazil and Uruguay on October 3 and 6. The state government is implementing strict security arrangements to avoid past mismanagement during sporting events. Indranil Khan emphasized that QR-code based digital ticketing will be used, preventing black marketing. Infrastructure upgrades are being made for a World Cup-like experience for fans attending the games.

IBSA Foreign Ministers convened to call for urgent reforms of global governance institutions and the UN Security Council. They expressed support for increased representation of developing countries in decision-making processes, particularly in the UNSC. The Ministers highlighted the need for reform to address contemporary challenges, including climate change and socio-economic inequality. They also raised concerns about conflicts in the Middle East affecting the Global South.

India will see a busy Day 11 at the Asian Games with several events and opportunities. Archery, women's hockey, and shooting are among the key competitions where medals are possible. The women's hockey team aims for direct qualification for the LA 2028 Olympics against South Korea. Boxing and wrestling events also feature Indian athletes competing for medals throughout the day.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met a US Congressional delegation led by Brian Mast in New Delhi. Misri conveyed concerns regarding the implications of the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act on bilateral relations. The Act permits high tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil, affecting India directly. The next India-Russia summit will be held in Russia, with details to be updated later.

Sandeep Mistry was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation upon his arrival in Mumbai. He had been absconding since June 2018 following the initiation of criminal proceedings against him. Mistry allegedly managed dummy entities in Dubai and Hong Kong to facilitate fraudulent activities.

Foreign ministers from India, Brazil, and South Africa gathered during the UN General Assembly. They emphasized the need for comprehensive reform in global governance institutions. The ministers called for increased participation from developing and least-developed countries.

A 14-year-old Indian-origin student from Georgia has gained recognition for developing PestiSCAND, a handheld device that uses artificial intelligence to identify pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables. Sirish Subash created the project to give consumers another way to check produce after washing it. The invention recorded more than 85% accuracy in tests on spinach and tomatoes and won him the 2024 Americas Top Young Scientist title.

Gautam Adani and four companies in the Adani Group have settled regulatory violations with SEBI. The settlement involved a payment of 14.82 million rupees to address minimum public float rules. SEBI had previously accused the group of failing to comply with shareholding disclosure requirements. While investigations continue regarding stock price manipulation, the companies are not mandated to make corrective disclosures.

Indian equities plunged on Monday as the Sensex fell 1,124 points and Nifty dropped over 360 points, wiping out nearly Rs 8 lakh crore in market value. Surging oil prices, bond yields, geopolitical tensions and rate-hike concerns drove broad-based selling.

Augment India I Holdings sold 85.03 lakh Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions shares worth about Rs 1,096 crore through NSE bulk deals. Goldman Sachs, HSBC and ICICI Prudential Life Insurance were among the buyers, while brokerages retain positive views on CleanMax.