The Economic Times

An IndiGo flight from Navi Mumbai to Srinagar hit a docking guidance pole while being parked at Srinagar airport on Friday. The aircraft was damaged, but all passengers and crew were safe and no injuries were reported.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh released India's strategic blueprint for defence diplomacy. This document outlines a comprehensive framework for global partnerships over the next decade. Key pillars include strategic partnerships, capacity building, indigenous exports, and maritime security. India aims to deepen security cooperation and enhance joint military exercises with friendly nations. The blueprint promotes Make-in-India defence platforms and strengthens India's regional security role.

Neetal Narang will serve as India's first Safeguarding Officer at the Asian Games. She will be the athletes' primary contact for harassment and abuse concerns. This role is mandatory for the Olympic Council of Asia's events. India will send 503 athletes to compete in 36 different sports. The contingent's support staff includes a limited number of women.

VVS Laxman will lead the Indian men's cricket team at the upcoming Asian Games 2026. He previously coached the team to a gold medal victory in China. Regular coach Gautam Gambhir will be with the senior team for a home series. The women's team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will also defend their title. Both teams aim to secure gold medals in Japan's tournament.

India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stated readiness to assist in ending the Ukraine war. He conveyed this offer during his recent visit to the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Discussions between the two foreign ministers prominently featured attacks on commercial shipping. India's commitment to providing any possible assistance was clearly communicated. This diplomatic engagement underscores India's role in seeking peaceful resolutions.

Indian Economy: Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCRA) has upgraded Indias sovereign credit rating from BBB+ to A-, restoring an A rating for India after more than 35 years. The upgrade follows rating increases by Morningstar DBRS, R&I and S&P Global Ratings. Indias strong economic growth, improving fiscal position, stronger banking system, digital infrastructure and low external vulnerability are supporting the latest rating upgrade.

India's automotive market thrives by owning technology, not just assembling imported parts. Past partnerships built manufacturing and vendor capabilities for Indian companies. New energy vehicles require mastering battery and software engineering for global standards. Tata Motors and Mahindra now lead India's EV market through sustained investment. This shift moves India from 'Make in India' towards true 'Design in India'.

India has stalled Alipay+'s proposal to link with its instant payments system. National security concerns and data usage questions are the primary reasons for this decision. The Indian government cited political grounds for halting the integration of the payment platforms. Law enforcement agencies also raised concerns about money laundering and data breaches.

Indian authorities raided a Mumbai warehouse last week, seizing products and equipment. This operation involved relabelling food products with fake nutrition and expiry dates. Canadian officials are now assessing potential risks to their country's food imports. They have no current information indicating these products entered Canada. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency takes food fraud very seriously.

The India-New Zealand free trade agreement will officially commence next month. This pact grants India one hundred percent duty-free access for all its exports. New Zealand previously imposed tariffs up to ten percent on key Indian goods. The agreement also promotes significant investments between the two nations. New Zealand has committed to investing twenty billion US dollars over fifteen years.

India and Belgium are cooperating on advanced defense equipment development. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the indigenous Zorawar light tank's capabilities. This collaboration includes manufacturing the Belgian John Cockerill turret in India. The Zorawar tank is designed for high-altitude warfare in challenging terrains. Induction of these tanks into the Indian Army is expected by 2027.

India's micro-drama sector is on track to hit Rs 23,500 to 25,500 crore by FY32 and advertising video-on-demand is set to become a primary revenue stream next to subscriptions, Redseer Strategy Consultants said. The anticipated growth in AVOD could see active daily users skyrocketing to around 140-150 million, it added.

Netflix introduces 'Into the Southverse' to simplify discovering southern Indian films and series. This new collection gathers content across languages, genres, moods, and stars for viewers. The streaming giant is increasing its investment in southern film industries and expects new titles weekly. Southern Indian films have consistently appeared on Netflix's India Top 10 lists.

India and Belgium will work to double bilateral trade over the next five years. Cooperation will expand beyond traditional commerce into defence and clean energy sectors. Both nations seek to enhance collaboration in critical minerals and semiconductor technology. Belgium's expertise and India's scale offer complementary strengths for mutual growth. This strategic partnership aims to foster shared priorities for a clean energy future.

India will compete against South Korea in the Davis Cup 2026 Qualifiers. This tie offers a chance to reach the prestigious Final 8 in Bologna. The team aims to end a long wait for its first Davis Cup championship. Sumit Nagal and Yuki Bhambri lead the Indian squad for this crucial match. This event marks India's first appearance in the second round under the current format.

Lollapalooza India has announced its complete lineup for the 2027 festival, set to take place in Mumbai. Fans can look forward to electrifying performances from international sensations like Olivia Dean and Limp Bizkit. The two-day festival will unfold on January 23 and 24, featuring over twenty hours of live music spread across four dynamic stages. Ticket sales are now open through official partners.

Indias banking system liquidity surplus has surged to a record 9.7 trillion ($102.67 billion), surpassing the previous peak seen in September 2021. The sharp increase follows Indian banks raising $127.23 billion through non-resident foreign-currency deposits under the RBIs scheme, with most funds swapped into rupees. The liquidity glut could complicate RBI management of overnight rates and liquidity.

The raw-material cost environment for FMCG makers has become increasingly uneven in the second quarter of FY27, with prices of several agricultural and food commodities moving higher even as crude and some imported packaging inputs offered sequential relief, according to a report.

Geo-Chem India, a proud member of the Cotecna Group, has inaugurated a cutting-edge food safety laboratory in Mumbai. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance testing and inspection services tailored for the booming food industry. With a commitment to helping businesses comply with strict regulatory standards and reach new markets, the lab boasts advanced technology and a skilled team of scientists.

India faces significant age fraud issues across various sports disciplines. Hundreds of wrestlers were disqualified from under-17 championships for age manipulation. Experts believe this practice is deeply ingrained in the country's sporting culture. Stricter punishments and a central digital database are proposed solutions. The Sports Ministry is drafting a code to combat this growing problem.

India plans Bharat NCAP 2.0 from October 2027, expanding safety assessments. A points-based system for drivers aims to change behavior and encourage responsible driving. Stricter certification requirements are being implemented for buses to enhance passenger safety. The government seeks industry support for driver training centers and vehicle fitness. These measures aim to significantly reduce road accidents and fatalities across the nation.

An Indian National Defence College delegation met Oman's Chief of Staff. Discussions focused on academic and training collaboration between the two nations. Oman serves as a strategic partner for India in the West Asia region. Their defense cooperation has become a key pillar of this partnership. India holds the most defense MoUs with Oman in West Asia.

India awaits US tariff advantage for trade deal finalization. The agreement was announced on February 3, 2026, reducing US tariffs on Indian goods. New Delhi seeks a clear tariff edge over competing manufacturing economies. India has protected its agriculture and dairy sectors under the agreement. Sectors like MSMEs and textiles will benefit from lower tariffs.

Inox Wind announced securing a significant 100 MW wind energy turnkey order. This substantial project is valued at Rs 755 crore and comes from Indian Oil Corporation. The agreement includes comprehensive project execution and long-term operations and maintenance services. This order further diversifies Inox Wind's esteemed customer portfolio across various sectors. The company reinforces its standing as a complete wind energy solutions provider.

Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, a veteran of the Indian Air Force, takes charge as the first CEO of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust after a distinguished 43-year career in the IAF. His service included critical assignments, including the secure transportation of sensitive NEET-UG examination papers across the country. His experience in major operations, including Operation Sindoor, brings extensive leadership, strategic and crisis-management expertise to his new role at the Ram Mandi

Indian government bonds saw gains early Thursday, led by shorter-term debt. Larger dollar inflows boosted rupee liquidity and improved sentiment for Indian assets. Banks raised significant foreign currency, adding to domestic liquidity for several years. This influx strengthened India's ability to support the rupee and domestic markets. Elevated oil prices and US Treasury yields continued to weigh on longer-dated bonds.

YouTuber Nitish Rajput is rumoured to be a contestant on Bigg Boss 20, although official confirmation from the show's producers is still pending. Known for his insightful research into current affairs and notable social issues, he has previously faced challenges including a defamation suit and a YouTube ban in Pakistan. Read on to know more about him.

Britain's NHS chair sees India as a future global healthcare model. India utilizes technology to expand healthcare access and reduce costs significantly. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and eSanjeevani platform showcase this digital infrastructure. Artificial intelligence aids disease detection and outbreak prediction across the nation. India's approach offers lessons for other countries seeking better healthcare delivery.

Bengaluru tops the charts for household income and savings among Indias major cities, while Chennai records the highest debt-to-income ratio, driven largely by housing demand. Delhi-NCR, meanwhile, emerges as the countrys biggest consumption hub, thanks to its large household base. Mumbai and Delhi-NCR also have the highest number of affluent households, while urban spending patterns are increasingly shifting towards housing, healthcare and education.

Global investors are reassessing India's economic prospects due to its strong growth. US investors see confidence boosted by India's infrastructure and reforms. More regulatory opening is needed to attract greater foreign direct investment. Policy predictability is crucial for attracting large, long-term capital commitments. India's ambition to become a developed economy shows strong momentum.

India's services sector saw a slight acceleration in August, though new business growth remained subdued. Overall activity stayed near its weakest point in over four years, despite increased hiring. Firms reported cautious optimism for future market conditions and demand improvements. Cost pressures nudged up modestly, with businesses passing on higher operating expenses. India's composite PMI held steady as manufacturing growth slowed significantly.

Stock market veteran Shankar Sharma has questioned Indias headline GDP growth, arguing that the economys Real Feel growth is only 2-3%. Despite 7.8% GDP growth in Q1 FY27, he pointed to worsening quality of life and chaotic urban conditions, contrasting Indias experience with Europes stronger lived prosperity.

Inox Wind shares rose nearly 2% after securing a 755-crore, 100 MW turnkey order from Indian Oil Corporation. The project includes turbine supply, EPC, execution and 10-year O&M services, strengthening its institutional customer base and integrated renewable energy capabilities. Despite the order, shares remain significantly lower in 2026.

Economist Neelkanth Mishra defended India's GDP growth numbers against revision claims. He stated economic indicators point to a stronger economy with improving credit growth. Mishra highlighted personal vehicle dispatches and tax collections as real economic activity signs. He also noted robust construction indicators suggest strengthening private investment activity. However, weak real-wage growth indicates some economic slack remains.

India aims for a record-breaking performance at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026. The contingent includes five individual Olympic medallists and defending champions in various sports. Hockey competitions will serve as Olympic qualification events for Los Angeles 2028. Several athletes faced setbacks due to doping violations and selection criteria exclusions. India seeks to build on its Hangzhou success with a strong showing in Japan.

The trailer for HBO's Harry Potter series unveils an exciting new adaptation, featuring fresh talent as Harry, Ron, and Hermione. This adaptation promises to delve more deeply into character relationships and nuances, set to premiere worldwide on December 25, 2026. Read on to know more about it.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has urged India to move faster in the artificial intelligence race and build a strong domestic AI economy by leveraging its established IT sector. Speaking at the G20 Innovation Ministerial, Huang also called for practical AI regulation focused on actual harm, while stressing that technology companies must prioritise safety as AI systems become more capable.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari met Netherlands Ambassador Marisa Gerards in New Delhi. Discussions focused on sustainable infrastructure and green mobility cooperation. They also explored technology and innovation for strengthening bilateral trade. Ambassador Gerards also met officials regarding agriculture and democratic cooperation. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral engagement.

Despite foreign investors infusing billions into Indian equities, benchmark indices struggle to keep pace. Inflows in the primary market are notable but fail to directly uplift listed stocks. Selective purchases are occurring in large mid-cap stocks while financials and IT remain ignored. Domestic investors are a crucial pillar for market resilience, necessitating consistent secondary market activity for a comprehensive rally.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi met tribal students in Nashik. He stressed education is a right, not a privilege for any student. Gandhi listened to their concerns about ashram school conditions. He stated marginalized students need system support and assistance. The leader also urged Maharashtra Congress leaders to uphold party ideology.

Shuchita Sonalika has been appointed as the first Chief Operating Officer of the Canada-India Business Council. This appointment strengthens the council's capacity and its role in the economic corridor. Sonalika brings nearly eighteen years of experience advancing India's economic partnerships globally. She previously led operations for the Confederation of Indian Industry in North America and the UK. The council aims to further strengthen bilateral economic ties between Canada and India.

On Thursday, predictions suggest that the Indian rupee will continue its upward trajectory. This optimism stems from substantial foreign currency deposits enhancing the central bank's ability to provide support. India's unique mobilization schemes attracted over $136 billion, resulting in a marked increase in foreign exchange reserves, coupled with positive movements in other Asian currencies that contribute to the rupee's strength.

The Indian Air Force successfully conducted a drop trial of the Khagantak-243 glide bomb. This long-range weapon was indigenously designed and developed by JSR Dynamics and BEL. The trials met all objectives, demonstrating enhanced capabilities for the force. The Khagantak-243 is a 300-kg-class precision-guided munition with a range exceeding 140 km. This development reflects progress in India's defense innovation and self-reliance initiatives.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied trade deal talks between India and Iran. He warned countries aiding Tehran to evade sanctions could face penalties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss bilateral ties. They reiterated commitment to strengthening friendship and expanding trade relations. Both leaders also discussed regional peace and stability efforts.

India achieved 7.8 percent growth in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026-27. This remarkable expansion positions India as the world's fastest-growing major economy. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted reforms and infrastructure development efforts. These measures foster a conducive investment climate for businesses and banks. India remains committed to fiscal prudence and discipline while pursuing its national vision.

Iraq's oil exports increased significantly in August and September. This rise followed wide profit margins and Iranian tanker passage approvals. Buyers were incentivized by substantial discounts offered on Iraqi crude oil. Major importers like China and India are receiving more heavy crude. Shipments are improving supply to key Asian markets.