The Economic Times

The Commission for Air Quality Management in Delhi held a meeting to address ongoing dust pollution problems. Agencies were instructed to comply with measures for dust mitigation as pollution levels deteriorated. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi was specifically directed to enhance dust control on roads and open spaces. Stage one of the Graded Response Action Plan has been implemented due to worsening air quality.

India strongly condemned the UN rapporteurs for showing bias in a counter-terrorism report related to Dawood Ibrahim. Indian diplomat Raghoo Puri stated that the report contained factual inaccuracies regarding Ibrahim's criminal status. Puri emphasized that Ibrahim is a wanted criminal based in Pakistan and associated with Al-Qaeda. Additionally, India rejected Pakistan's claims regarding Jammu and Kashmir, asserting its integral part of the nation.

Taiwan has been waiting months for US President Donald Trump to approve a $14 billion sale of weapons and equipment, which the island democracy would use to fend off a potential Chinese attack. - Taiwan is developing a multi-layered air defence system, known as the T-Dome, that it hopes could counter a potential Chinese attack.

One individual died and eight were injured in an attack at King Fahd International Airport. The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the incident, which caused material damage at the airport. Following the attack, some flights were diverted away from the location for safety. The Iranian-backed Houthis have previously targeted Saudi airports amid rising tensions in the region. U.S.

US on Wednesday (local time) accused Russia of threatening actions in space, saying Moscow's COSMOS 2612 military satellite deliberately maneuvered dangerously close to what it called one of its commercial satellite.

Gold prices saw a decline as investors shift attention to the looming Federal Reserve policy meeting regarding interest rates. Spot gold prices dipped to $4,115.50 per ounce, with US gold futures for December slipping to $4,132.30. Analysts anticipate potential rate hikes in the coming months, particularly in December, where the likelihood stands at 90%. Other precious metals like silver and platinum also noted price drops.

Oil prices rose as Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia increased tensions and led to US diplomatic withdrawals. Brent crude futures gained $1.29, while US West Texas Intermediate crude rose by 97 cents after the attacks. The US State Department has ordered the withdrawal of some family members from various missions in the region. There was a noticeable drop in US crude stocks last week, contrary to analysts' expectations.

Donald Trump suggested renaming the Strait of Hormuz and both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. He recounted how officials initially dismissed a previous naming proposal for the Gulf of Mexico. After some discussion, they recognized its long-standing name and history. Trump justified his ideas by emphasizing the United States' significant coastline share. He humorously speculated about Arab countries' reactions to renaming the Strait of Hormuz.

Lana Nusseibeh has announced her candidacy for the role of United Nations secretary-general. She aims to restore the organization as an effective diplomatic problem-solver in response to global challenges. Nusseibeh has garnered support from numerous countries during the recent UN General Assembly. Her experience includes leading UAE campaigns at the UN and dealing with complex geopolitical issues.

Speaking to reporters before departing the White House for South Carolina, Trump highlighted the delicate state of peace discussions, arguing that imposing additional economic penalties could derail diplomatic momentum.

The United States has ordered some diplomats and their families to leave Saudi Arabia due to increasing tensions. This decision follows attacks by Yemen's Iran-supported Houthi rebels on critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh has been operating under restricted staffing, and travel alerts have been issued for government personnel. Meanwhile, drone attacks in Saudi Arabia continue to create security concerns and disrupt operations.

Missiles struck Kyiv early Thursday, following a previous evening air strike that injured six people. In Lipetsk, a drone attack resulted in damage to apartment buildings and a medical facility. US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff recently engaged in talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and President Vladimir Putin. These discussions aim to mediate an end to the ongoing conflict initiated by Russia's invasion in 2022.

US President Donald Trump emphasized that his administration successfully prevented Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He stated Iran would already have used nuclear weapons if actions had not been taken. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi argued that the US abandoned the nuclear agreement without justification while opposing Iranian ideology. Despite tensions, he noted Iran's military readiness deters potential US aggression.

US Midterm polls 2026 prediction: Democrats need to pick up at least four seats in November's midterm elections to win control of the 100-seat US Senate.

US midterms polls 2026 prediction: The US Constitution says that states have the primary authority for the administration of elections. Voter rolls cannot be changed on a major scale less than 90 days before an election.

Investors are preparing for the impacts of an unprecedented El Nio cycle affecting global markets. The weather phenomenon is linked to rising food prices and inflation estimates, heightening economic concerns. Analysts identify several vulnerable nations, including Indonesia, Brazil, and Colombia, likely to experience spillover effects. Strategies to cope include focusing on businesses developing technologies for extreme weather resilience. The widespread effects of El Nio necessitate adaptation

A 13-year-old teen girl from Massachusetts, Kaia Minn, has developed biodegradable seed pods using discarded citrus peels and other plant-based materials after being inspired by wildfire reports from California and Canada. The pods are designed to protect seeds during early growth before decomposing naturally, with potential applications in forest restoration, agriculture and gardening. Further outdoor testing is needed to establish their effectiveness.

In light of critical vulnerabilities discovered in PHP, numerous websites have been taken offline. The FBI has strongly recommended that organizations either update their PHP installations or disconnect vulnerable systems. Cybersecurity experts warn that these flaws pose a significant risk of data theft and cyberattacks. In response, website administrators are implementing urgent maintenance. Users are encouraged to exercise caution and adhere to online safety protocols.

Jurors in September found Meta liable for over 43 million violations of New Mexico consumer protection laws when a political consulting firm, Cambridge Analytica, harvested Facebook user data to generate targeted political ads for the 2016 election.

The Pentagon has authorized a temporary transfer of the Active Denial System to the Department of Homeland Security. This technology, known as a heat ray, is designed to disperse crowds without physical contact. Officials have yet to determine the specific testing locations or methods for its use. Previous military assessments have shown limited application in combat or crowd control situations.

As Democrats eye a potential return to power in Congress, billionaire Elon Musk could find himself under the microscope once again. Technology journalist Kara Swisher raised alarms about Musk's ties to Donald Trump, particularly highlighting his reliance on government support during Trump's tenure. Without Trump's backing, Swisher believes Musk could face intense scrutiny. While Musk dismissed her comments, the looming threat of investigations remains palpable.

The prestigious annual prize, which also includes a Fiction category worth the same prize money, celebrates exceptional narrative non-fiction written by female thought-leaders, changemakers and experts.

The US Supreme Court is set to examine the contested admission policy in Montgomery County affecting Asian-American students. The court's ruling will address whether sufficient evidence of discrimination exists for the lawsuit to progress. Previously, lower courts dismissed the case due to a lack of proven discriminatory intent. This decision could influence how selective public schools assess students under race-neutral policies.

Childcare costs have escalated significantly, impacting many households and their financial stability. This financial burden is influencing voter decisions, particularly among parents with young children. Candidates are increasingly addressing childcare issues in their campaigns to appeal to affected voters. While some propose substantial reforms, others prefer tax incentives as solutions. Parents are seeking representatives who genuinely support affordable childcare and early education initiati

Los Angeles and Southern California are bracing for a major storm from Wednesday to Thursday, with the National Weather Service warning of potential flooding from heavy rains expected to reach three inches. Coastal regions are also under tornado threat, increasing the need for caution. Communities recovering from wildfires should prepare for possible mud and debris flows.

The World Meteorological Organization reported that El Nino conditions may be unprecedentedly strong. Sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific could rise significantly above average during a specified future period. El Nino impacts include severe drought, heavy rainfall, and increased global temperatures. The phenomenon will peak towards late 2026, with effects persisting thereafter. This climate event is part of the El Nino Southern Oscillation cycle, which includes other phases.

Vladimir Putin has agreed to resume negotiations with Washington and Kyiv regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The trilateral talks will focus on establishing a post-war security system for both countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists on a leaders' summit to address ongoing hostilities. Recent discussions have yielded minimal progress amid continued military confrontations in Ukraine. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff noted a slight momentum in peace efforts following multiple high-level

EBay will lay off about 1,000 employees, representing 9% of its workforce, to streamline operations. The company previously reduced its staff by 800 positions in February to improve efficiency. EBay is focusing on authenticated luxury goods, collectibles, and refurbished products, which have attracted higher-paying consumers. The recent acquisition of fashion resale platform Depop has also strengthened eBay's market position. EBay plans to report its latest earnings next week.

United States President Donald Trump attempted to convince voters before the upcoming mid-term elections that the American economy is growing. However, voters have maintained the negative effects of inflation caused by the Iran war. The economy is seeing slowing job growth and widening income inequality, with high interest rates encumbering housing and automobile purchases.

The Sandoz penicillin plant in Kundl, Austria, is under threat from cheaper Chinese antibiotic production. European healthcare programs benefit from the lower prices, which could jeopardize self-sufficiency. China's share of the EU penicillins market has rapidly increased in recent years. European policymakers are becoming increasingly concerned about reliance on China for essential medicines. The current dynamics highlight the significant trade challenges facing European pharmaceutical manufact

Delaware has successfully transformed dredged rock from a shipping channel into underwater habitats for marine species. This innovative approach supports the growth of blue mussels and enhances local ecosystems. The artificial reefs also contribute to recreational fishing and diving opportunities for the public. By recycling natural materials, the state has addressed habitat scarcity in soft-bottom marine environments. Overall, this initiative exemplifies effective environmental management throu

Glenmont, a Victorian property acquired by Thomas Edison in 1886, serves as a significant historical site. It is located within the privately-owned Llewellyn Park community in West Orange, New Jersey. The estate is notable for maintaining a unique collection of artifacts that detail the Edisons' private lives. While the mansion is preserved by the National Park Service, surrounding areas are privately owned.

Cher's iconic Miami Beach mansion, originally acquired for $1.5 million, experienced remarkable appreciation, selling for $4.35 million just three years later. By 2020, it re-entered the market and fetched a staggering $17 million, following several attempts at higher listings. This transformation exemplifies the allure of celebrity homes, whose unique charm and history make them attractive investment assets.

The Election Commission has deployed a team of senior officials to Manipur to review preparations for assembly elections expected early next year in five states. Teams have also visited Uttarakhand, with Punjab scheduled for a review on October 28. The commission will conduct further assessments before announcing the election schedule.

Texas Senate race has become one of the most expensive in US history, with more than $500 million spent as Republican groups, backed by major donors including Elon Musk, seek to help Ken Paxton defeat Democrat James Talarico. With early voting underway, analysts say the focus has shifted from persuading undecided voters to mobilising supporters, while both parties battle over inflation, the Iran war and culture-war issues.

Maryland has repurposed over 300,000 bushels of used oyster shells since 2010, creating essential habitats for the growth of young oysters into thriving reefs. This project aims to restore the dwindling oyster population in Chesapeake Bay while enhancing critical underwater environments. To ensure the sustainability of these efforts, ongoing monitoring and protection of these habitats are paramount within the larger context of regional restoration actions.

Dilip Gavit secured the gold medal in the men's 100m T46/47 event at the Asian Para Games. Mohammed Morssinganakath Basil achieved a silver medal in the same event with a Games record time. Gavit finished with a time of 10.69 seconds while Basil clocked 10.72 seconds. In the men's 100m T64 event, Pranav Desai won a bronze medal, further showcasing India's athletic talent.

The ET HR Excellence Awards 2027 honors exemplary HR teams who significantly contribute to business growth through innovative talent management, robust employee engagement, and retention tactics. By acknowledging their tangible achievements, these awards provide organizations a stage to present their HR efforts and demonstrate their role in fostering improved workplace environments while achieving strategic objectives.

Michigan's Senate race 2026 is drawing national attention as Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed seeks to become the first Muslim elected to the US Senate. The physician and former Detroit health official is running on healthcare, workers rights, higher taxes on billionaires and changes to immigration policy against Republican Mike Rogers in a closely watched contest.

The Commission for Air Quality Management has invoked Stage-I of GRAP across Delhi-NCR after Delhis AQI rose sharply from 179 on October 20 to 244 by 2 pm on October 21. With forecasts predicting poor air quality over the coming days, agencies have been directed to intensify anti-pollution measures.

Researchers along Floridas Atlantic coast are using recycled oyster shells to restore damaged oyster habitats. Restoration mats that include used shells are designed to create surfaces for juvenile oysters to settle. Within years, these restored areas achieved densities akin to natural reefs, indicating successful recovery efforts. The benefits extend beyond oysters, aiding in water purification and providing habitats for other marine life.