The Economic Times

President Donald Trump has announced one-time $90 payments for more than 20 million Medicare Part B enrollees. The White House says the money will come from the Medicare Improvement Fund, which has about $2 billion available. Most eligible recipients are expected to receive the payment in October, without filing a separate application.

Panchayati Raj elections in Rajasthan will be held in four phases, beginning with nominations on October 8. Voting for Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti members will take place on specific dates in October and November. The election process includes the election of Pradhan, Up-Pradhan, Zila Pramukh, and Up-Zila Pramukh later in November. A total of 3.17 lakh personnel will oversee elections at 45,384 polling stations.

A committee in Parliament is in the process of exploring the legal avenues for regulating cryptocurrency transactions and assets within India. They aim to identify technological strategies for tracking these digital assets responsibly. Highlighting the government's earlier stance on cryptocurrencies as unregulated and risky, recent notices under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act have been dispatched.

Russian attacks killed at least six people in Ukraine and damaged Kyiv's Northern Bridge, disrupting traffic for a third day, while Moscow confirmed it targeted the structure. Ukrainian strikes also caused casualties in Russia. Moldova's president warned that the war was increasingly spilling into her country after reported Russian airspace violations.

Chandigarh State Consumer Commission increased the compensation for a senior citizen after inadequate toilet facilities were provided. The complainant, aged 73, booked a retiring room expecting a Western toilet but found an Indian toilet. Following initial acknowledgment of the error, the refund was denied after the room was not used. Initially awarded only Rs 3,000, the compensation was raised to Rs 20,000 for mental anguish and litigation expenses.

Ukraine is evaluating four international proposals to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting India's comprehensive approach. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted India's newfound willingness to engage in the peace process. Other proposals include initiatives from Turkiye and Egypt for grain truce and a U.S. energy truce. Both Zelenskyy and Putin have acknowledged India's principled stance and Modi's diplomatic efforts.

The baseline for tax planning in 2026 relies on shifting retirement contribution limits. The IRS adjusted these thresholds, altering the calculus for wage earners trying to suppress their taxable income. A traditional 401(k) or 403(b) now absorbs up to $24,500 in pre-tax earnings. Individual Retirement Accounts cap at $7,500.

MacKenzie Scott has made headlines by donating $30 million to Housing Trust Silicon Valley, a game-changing support for the nonprofit. This significant contribution aims to tackle the alarming affordable housing issue in the San Francisco Bay Area. Over the next ten years, Housing Trust will leverage this funding for various community initiatives, continuing Scott's long-standing commitment to enhancing housing access, with her total philanthropy surpassing $19 billion recently.

Which jobs are not safe from AI? Questions are being raised over the nature and magnitude of impact of Artificial Intelligence in coming times.

Dozens of Omani pilots reportedly flew flydubai's Dubai-Tel Aviv route in recent years despite an Israeli restriction barring pilots from countries without diplomatic ties with Israel. Channel 12's report has raised questions over aviation security after an Omani flydubai copilot allegedly attacked the captain and attempted to take control of the aircraft.

Voters in the 2026 US midterm elections can preview their ballots and candidates in advance. By checking their sample ballots and voter guides, individuals can prepare for Election Day efficiently. Important voting dates include the start of mail ballots on October 5 and the last day for registration on October 19. Voters have the option to vote by mail, at drop boxes, or in person on November 3.

Upon experiencing a violent attack mid-flight, Captain Smit Machchhar showcased remarkable bravery to protect his crew. The incident occurred on the flydubai flight FZ1073, traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Despite sustaining serious injuries, the captain successfully unlocked the cockpit door, enabling assistance from crew members.

In a deeply tragic incident, Texas mother Cibelle Savella fatally shot her four-year-old daughter Vivian before taking her own life, following a court ruling that favored the child's father, Aaron Savella. This heartbreaking event unfolded in their Houston home, leaving family members and the community in shock and mourning. When the shots rang out, Cibelle Savella's new husband and a babysitter were present inside the house.

Homeowners may want to look twice before claiming mortgage interest and property taxes as tax breaks in 2026. Those expenses help only when itemized deductions beat the standard deduction. For many taxpayers, they will not. Retirement contributions, HSAs, charitable giving and newer deductions may offer better opportunities, depending on income, age and filing status. The right choice comes down to the numbers.

During a recent celebration of her impressive music achievements, Taylor Swift showcased a bold and curly new haircut. Marking a significant milestone with her fifth Official Chart Double in the UK, fans are buzzing with theories that this hairstyle shift could herald a transformative musical era. Whispers also suggest connections to her relationship with Travis Kelce, although Swift has remained tight-lipped about any personal links to her new look.

India triumphed in the Asian Games cricket final, defeating Pakistan by 19 runs to secure their gold medal once more. The match proceeded with remarkable sportsmanship, as both teams placed their emphasis on cricket, avoiding the customary handshakes that are often clouded by rivalry. Pakistan earned silver and Sri Lanka claimed bronze, with the medal ceremony unfolding without any disruptions from the surrounding political climate.

Pakistan's inflation eased to 10.3 per cent in September 2026, down from 11.1 per cent in August, but remained above the government's projections as rising electricity and fuel costs continued to offset the relief from lower food inflation. The figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics showed that consumer prices rose 1.3 per cent month-on-month in September.

Donald Trump is seeking to reassure voters about AI safety without imposing new regulations, unveiling a voluntary agreement with six major technology companies that calls for stronger internal controls and independent audits. Critics say the pact lacks enforcement mechanisms, as public concern grows over AI risks and whether companies can effectively police themselves.

A shocking event unfolded in Newcastle when a vehicle rammed into a crowd, resulting in injuries to at least ten people, including young children. Two individuals were left in critical condition while others are stable and receiving treatment. Police have detained the 18-year-old driver and are investigating the circumstances, dismissing any terrorist connections.

Bayer has announced a significant investment of $2.2 billion to establish a new pharmaceutical site in New Albany, Ohio. This project follows over $7 billion in investments by Bayer in US pharmaceutical research and development. The facility aims to focus on critical areas including cancer, heart, and kidney care. It is expected to create around 600 permanent jobs and 1,500 construction jobs during its development.

Four women in Karachi are taking to motorcycles for food delivery work to support their families. They have each faced personal challenges that motivated them to seek financial independence. The growing demand for home delivery has created opportunities for them within the city's busy landscape. Initiatives are emerging to help more women overcome transportation barriers in their professional lives.

David Rivera, a former congressman, received a 10-year prison sentence for unregistered lobbying for Venezuela. He was convicted for money laundering and failing to register as a foreign agent. During his trial, Marco Rubio stated they were once close friends but he knew nothing about the contract. Rivera claims his lobbying efforts aimed to undermine President Maduro rather than assist him.

Captain Smit Machchhar was the pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073 when a violent incident occurred. He sustained injuries after the co-pilot attacked him in the cockpit. Despite his condition, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door for crew intervention. The flight was safely diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia following the altercation. Both Indian and Israeli leaders have praised Machchhar for his actions during the emergency.

The co-pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073 attacked the pilot with an axe in the cockpit. He attempted to gain control of the aircraft during the incident. The United Arab Emirates prosecutor general has announced that investigations are currently ongoing. Authorities are looking into the motives behind this attack and any possible connections.

China has launched an anti-dumping investigation regarding p-nitrotoluene imports from the European Union due to trade tensions. This investigation follows a complaint from the domestic industry in China about pricing practices for this chemical compound. Preliminary evidence indicates that EU prices dropped significantly over the past few years, raising concerns among Chinese manufacturers. Trade officials from the European Union plan to visit Beijing shortly to discuss these issues further.

Hamam al-Hammami, a co-pilot, attacked captain Smit Machchhar on a Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv. The incident, which caused the aircraft to rapidly descend, raised serious security concerns. Al-Hammami had previously been removed from Oman Air due to extremist views and later employed by Flydubai. An investigation is ongoing to uncover the motive and potential terrorist links.

President Donald Trump announced a one-time $90 payment for over 20 million Americans enrolled in Medicare. The payments are intended to assist with monthly medical insurance premiums as the midterm elections approach. Most eligible seniors will receive the payment through direct deposit or checks in early October. Additionally, separate payments of $500 are being distributed to nearly one million Americans who purchased health insurance through the Affordable Care Act.

The attack on a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv has disrupted regional aviation, prompting the UAE to suspend commercial flights to Israel and arrange repatriation services for stranded passengers. Investigators are examining the co-pilots motive and possible outside links, while wounded Indian captain Smit Machchhar is recovering after the aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.

President Donald Trump held a rally in Alabama where he urged support for local Republican candidates. The rally highlighted both Trump's loyalty among supporters and ongoing challenges for the GOP ahead of midterm elections. Attendees expressed their concerns about rising costs, showing mixed feelings about the current economic situation. Trump also announced plans to campaign aggressively across competitive battleground states leading up to the elections.

China's Commerce Ministry has launched an anti-dumping investigation concerning p-nitrotoluene imports from the European Union. This decision follows a complaint from the domestic industry regarding significant price drops. Preliminary evidence indicates EU import prices fell nearly 60% cumulatively between 2022 and 2025. The investigation reflects increasing trade tensions between China and the European Union.

Saudi Arabia is preparing for an offensive against Houthi militants in Yemen, focusing on securing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The operation is expected to include coordinated attacks from multiple fronts alongside Yemeni ground forces. Over 100,000 Yemeni troops could potentially participate in the planned military action. U.S. intelligence support and military aid from other nations will assist the Saudi campaign in Yemen.

Apple is asking some AT&T customers to replace their iPhone 18 Pro Max after a cellular bug left affected devices unable to make calls, use mobile data or send texts. Apple says the issue affects a small number of users and has released iOS 27.0.1 and a carrier settings update, but phones already hit by the glitch need to be swapped.

A former student at Cornell University has filed a lawsuit against seven fraternity members for alleged sexual assault. The complaint claims that she was drugged and assaulted at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. During her interview with investigators, she provided details of her experience that night. The Tompkins County District Attorney mentioned that the case is being reopened for further investigation.

A car collided with a crowd eagerly waiting for the Newcastle Knights rugby team on Saturday morning. Many fans were present to cheer the team before their finals match, leading to injuries. Emergency services responded promptly, treating those affected at the scene. The driver involved was taken into custody following the incident. Investigations are ongoing to determine the specifics surrounding this unfortunate event.

The FBI has issued a classified report examining its past failures to ensure future accountability and trust. Director Kash Patel emphasizes confronting the agency's shortcomings rather than rewriting history, despite criticism. The report aims to reflect on past mistakes without protecting them, promoting organizational accountability. Previous investigations and actions taken against agents involved with Trump have sparked controversy regarding the agency's integrity.

Kazakhstan is hosting AI MONTH to emphasize the importance of artificial intelligence in digitalization. The AI & Digital Bridge 2026 forum is a key event highlighting technology advancements and collaborative efforts. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev advocates for responsible AI development while encouraging talent and investment retention. International experts and leaders gather to discuss global AI governance and partnerships.

A FlyDubai flight with 182 people faced a near-crash incident due to an attack on the cockpit. The co-pilot, previously barred from flying in Oman, was hired by the UAE airline. Investigations are ongoing with both Israeli and Emirati officials involved. The UAE has suspended all flights to Israel, complicating travel for many passengers. The captain of the flight, praised for his actions, continues to recover in Abu Dhabi.

A spacecraft, called Mariner 1, was NASA's first probe which planned to study Venus. A software error and a guidance control problem led to the loss of the spacecraft after it went off its intended path.

'We're not telling you who to vote for, but': Hegseth gives US troops a day off to vote in midterms

Quote of the day by Sean Connery from Finding Forrester speaks about the importance of an unexpected gift. It is needed to show a person that you care about them. Romance and spontaneity are highly important in relationships.

Luigi Mangione arrest video: Newly released body-camera footage shows the moments police identified Luigi Mangione at a McDonalds in Pennsylvania and took him into custody. The video captures officers questioning his identity, including the name on his ID, before showing what happened during his arrest and the search that followed at the station.

As the 2026 US midterm elections approach, it's crucial for voters to mail their ballots ahead of time to avert potential complications. Remember, ballots must be postmarked by Election Day to be counted. In California, ballots can be accepted up to seven days late if they are postmarked correctly. Voters are encouraged to track their ballots to confirm acceptance.

The Cornell University is under renewed scrutiny after a former student filed a civil lawsuit alleging a 2024 gang rape at a Chi Phi fraternity house. Cornell says it investigated the allegations and disciplined students. Prosecutors have reopened the criminal investigation, while New York state has appointed a special prosecutor. Students are also demanding a further accountability and changes on campus.