The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
Jeff Bezos is investing $100 million to convert neglected urban land into parks across eight American cities. Projects will include restoring vacant properties and creating public parks and wildlife habitats. In Little Rock, a former motorway ramp will become a 20-acre park called 30 Crossing Park. This project aims to connect existing green spaces and cultural attractions along the riverfront.
Canada is preparing to send a significant trade delegation to India, aiming to enhance commercial relationships. Led by Minister Maninder Sidhu, the mission will focus on expanding partnerships in aerospace, agri-food, and clean technology. This event will coincide with ongoing negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at elevating bilateral trade. Canadian businesses hope to connect with Indian leaders and boost employability in Canada.
Engineers at the University of Houston have repurposed retired wind turbine blades to build a highway sign structure, creating a potential new use for hard-to-recycle materials. The prototype could cut material costs by 73% and reduce embodied energy and greenhouse gas emissions by more than 65%, according to the researchers.
Delhi Police addressed social media claims regarding Abhijeet Dipke's awareness of his grandmother's death. They stated that he was promptly informed while in detention during the Cockroach Janta Party protests. The department confirmed he received details about the funeral and assistance for travel. This clarification aimed to counter misinformation circulated on various social media platforms. Authorities emphasized the sensitivity of the situation in their communication.
'Fraudsters, fentanyl, immigrants': JD Vance tears into Sherrod Brown as Ohio Senate battle heats up
Participants in Delhi prepared for a protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party against voter-list manipulation. Many engaged in creating posters and digital artwork to convey political messages and provide advice. Extensive police security hindered demonstrators from assembling at the planned location of Jantar Mantar. Despite challenges, protesters remained committed to expressing their demands through various means of communication.
Bollywood actor Imran Khan participated in a protest at August Kranti Maidan organized by CJP. After his detention, he shared a humorous photo from inside a police van on social media. He clarified that he attended the event as a concerned citizen rather than representing any organization. More than 400 people have been detained at this protest, along with nearly 1,000 others in Delhi.
Piyush Goyal accused Rahul Gandhi of showing disrespect towards constitutional authorities following his meeting with President Droupadi Murmu. Gandhi stated he was shocked when the President did not deny allegations regarding electoral irregularities. The Leader of Opposition claimed there was a conspiracy involving senior officials to undermine democracy. Goyal questioned Gandhi's lack of evidence to support his claims during the meeting.
DonnaJean Wilde has reached an extraordinary fitness achievement by successfully holding a plank for an impressive five hours. This feat surpassed her previous record of four hours, 30 minutes, and 11 seconds during a notable public event. After years of intensive training, she embraced various exercises while planking. She had already broken the record of doing the most pushups done in an hour by a woman, at 1,575.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal for creating chaos. She claims these leaders, along with their associates, are trying to disrupt public peace. An unprecedented police presence prevented protests organized by the Cockroach Janta Party demanding the resignation of Chief Electoral Officer Gyanesh Kumar. Key leaders from the CJP were detained upon arriving at the Delhi airport from Mumbai.
The UK launched the Bio-Bus, a 40-seat vehicle powered by biomethane made from human sewage and food waste in 2014. Operated between Bath and Bristol Airport, the bus could travel up to 300 km on a full tank, using fuel produced from the annual waste of around five people, according to GENeco.
Florence-based Antinori said that two vans were used for the robbery and the company believes five or six people took part.
Protesters in Delhi encountered heavy police presence while attempting to demonstrate against the Chief Election Commissioner. The mobilisation planned for Jantar Mantar transformed into smaller protests across different locations in the city. Authorities implemented strict security measures, including the detention of thousands and blocking access to metro stations. Groups attempted to regroup and continue their demands for democracy amidst severe restrictions on movement.
Fourteen students and activists were detained while traveling to Delhi for an anti-CEC protest. They will now hold their demonstration in Pune instead of the capital city. After their release mandated by the Madhya Pradesh High Court, they confirmed plans to return home. Activists reported instances of police brutality during their detention at Itarsi junction.
A woman surnamed Wu in Changsha, China, bought 196 parking spaces for Rs 19.36 crore in 2018 and later rented and listed them for sale at higher prices as demand increased. Residents challenged the bulk purchase in court, arguing that it worsened parking shortages. A local court ruled in her favour in February 2024, and the case recently reignited debate on Chinese social media.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered a case to investigate the alleged mid-air stabbing of Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar by an Omani co-pilot aboard a Dubai-Tel Aviv flydubai flight on September 30. The probe was ordered by the Union Home Ministry to uncover the alleged larger conspiracy.
Mangrol is the third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft being commissioned into the Indian Navy. The ship enhances the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities in coastal areas where larger ships struggle. It is equipped with advanced weapons and sensors to detect submarine threats effectively. Built with over 80 percent indigenous content, it supports India's self-reliance in defense shipbuilding initiatives.
Protesters in Delhi organized a demonstration demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. As police enforced extensive security measures, many activists sought refuge in public spaces and places of worship. The situation escalated with protesters hiding in NDMC washrooms and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Numerous detentions occurred despite attempts to evade police on the streets. Ultimately, the day showcased a tense standoff between demonstrators and law enforcement.
The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition by Janta Live Press Network seeking restoration of its disabled Gmail account, ruling that providing email services is a commercial activity that does not automatically qualify as a public function. Justice Amit Mahajan said a private entitys popularity or the importance of its services to a business does not determine whether it falls under writ jurisdiction.
In an open letter, 124 former IAS and IFS officers defended the Election Commission's integrity during recent electoral processes. They emphasized the advancements in Indias electoral system that minimize fraud and errors. The letter countered allegations of vote rigging by pointing to evidence of successful elections under the current regime. Major ex-officials included Kanwal Sibal and R D Kapur, underscoring the letter's significance.
Uttar Pradesh Minister Danish Azad Ansari emphasized the importance of democracy and dialogue amid ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janta Party. He criticized certain individuals for undermining the constitutional framework and creating disorder within the country. Congress leader Aradhana Misra Mona expressed concerns over the BJP's actions, claiming they depict a frightened government. Meanwhile, various political leaders reacted to the protests, presenting differing views on their legitimacy
The International Monetary Fund confronts increased borrowing costs and record debt levels among developed countries. As inflation rises, governments find it harder to manage their financial obligations. The potential for civil unrest emerges alongside economic pressures observed in these nations. Emerging markets have improved their resilience since previous crises, allowing them to face challenges more effectively.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that Delhi Police detained her and five Trinamool Congress MPs and drove them around in a prison van for two hours amid protests in the capital. She began a dharna at Dwarka North Police Station, vowed to stay in Delhi and join the INDIA bloc's march on Monday.
Indian hockey Olympian Jarmanpreet Singh has shared a video of himself ploughing his familys farmland in Razadan village near Amritsar, highlighting his commitment to responsibilities at home alongside his sporting career. The defender, who is also an income-tax officer, has urged young people to spend time with their parents. His achievements include two Asian Games gold medals and an Olympic bronze.
Sonam Wangchuk expressed concern over the arrests of leaders during protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He stated that an Anshan Fast or Padyatra March might be necessary if those detained are not released. Wangchuk conveyed his unexpected feelings regarding the current state of democracy in the country. He called for unity and peace amidst these ongoing protests.
Hurricane Isaias hit Florida hard, leaving many in Georgia without power as it wreaked havoc across the region. Over 100,000 residents statewide faced electricity outages, while counties experienced dangerous storm surges and flash flooding. In light of this crisis, Governor Brian Kemp issued a State of Emergency, aiming to streamline relief efforts. The storm's impact will continue to be felt as it pushes into Alabama.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers launched the third next-generation offshore patrol vessel named 'Shreyas' for the Indian Navy. The launch took place less than two months after the second vessel, 'Shruti', was launched. The event was attended by Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar and included traditional rituals. The vessels will enhance maritime operations with improved capabilities and operational versatility.
Priyanka Gandhi has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government of undermining democratic principles in India. She stated that the government is infringing on the constitutional rights of protesting individuals and opposition leaders. Security measures in Delhi resulted in nearly 3000 protesters being detained as they attempted to assemble for demonstrations. Prominent opposition figures, including Mamata Banerjee and Pinarayi Vijayan, were among those detained by the police.
Isaias, the first hurricane to hit the eastern US since Milton tore up the Gulf Coast of Florida in 2024, is also expected to bring heavy rain and potential flooding to much of the Southeast over the weekend, then to parts of the Midwest and Northeast into Monday.
A video of Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe responding to a schoolboys request to bring back vada pav in school canteens has gone viral on Instagram. Mundhe encouraged children to prioritise nutritious food and also cautioned against certain Chinese street food preparations. The exchange comes amid Maharashtras restrictions on foods high in fat, sugar and salt in school canteens and within 50 metres of school campuses.
Rahul Gandhi has launched a strong critique against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He accused them of cowardice while advocating for the defense of the Constitution. Gandhi called for continued protests by the youth against perceived injustices in governance. The opposition plans to challenge the Chief Election Commissioner over alleged electoral irregularities and demanded his resignation.
Delhi Police took proactive measures by detaining more than 3,000 protesters across the capital city. Authorities used drones to monitor individuals trying to proceed to Jantar Mantar for the demonstration. The police also detained over 600 individuals with criminal records as a precaution. Surveillance and security arrangements were intensified to maintain law and order during this period.
Nat Habit has secured Rs 142 crore in Series C funding led by Trident Growth Partners. The investment aims to enhance its product offerings and improve distribution channels in retail and quick commerce. The company plans to increase production capacity significantly over the next two years to meet rising demand. Additionally, Nat Habit will explore new product segments like body wash and hair colour.
China has proposed stricter rules for automakers, including a ban on fully hidden door handles, foldable or flexible displays and the use of zero-gravity or swivel seats while driving. The countrys industry ministry said the proposed regulations aim to address safety and environmental risks arising from new car models launched without adequate testing. The draft rules also require automakers to submit more technical details on innovative designs and research and development testing from January
A court in Delhi has revoked the interim bail granted to Sharjeel Imam due to his violation of conditions. The interim bail prohibited him from coming into contact with media personnel, which he allegedly breached. Following this incident, the Delhi Police filed a plea to cancel his bail order. The court's decision reflects the seriousness of adhering to bail conditions.
Surinder Choudhary highlighted his concerns regarding the detention of CJP leaders during a protest in Delhi. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding democratic rights and the need for an investigation into allegations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Choudhary urged Kumar to resign on moral grounds to maintain electoral process transparency. The deputy chief minister also spoke about the rising unemployment issues affecting the youth across India.
BJP leaders in Nagpur have accused Congress MP Rahul Gandhi of having a mental disorder. They performed rituals for his ancestors to invoke wisdom and alter his behavior, considering him anti-national. In response, Congress officials defended Gandhi's role in raising concerns about governance and questioned BJP's reaction to his inquiries. They emphasized the right to question authority, linking it to constitutional values.
Recent clashes in Manipur led to the deaths of three individuals, including a woman and her child. A 22-year-old man also lost his life during the violent exchanges between groups. Violence in the region has resulted in over 40 fatalities since February, escalating tensions between Kuki and Naga communities. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders to prevent further conflict, restricting gatherings in affected areas.
BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad emphasized the triumph of Indian democracy against attempts to promote anarchy. He stated that the country is governed through Parliament rather than through the streets. While acknowledging the right to protest, he accused the Opposition of weaponizing street demonstrations due to electoral defeats. Prasad highlighted the BJPs electoral success in various states occurring simultaneously with the protests in Delhi.
Due to the planned CJP protests in Delhi, significant security measures have been implemented in Uttar Pradesh. Many Delhi-bound trains have been canceled, causing disruptions for travelers with planned journeys. Passengers were advised to check train statuses to avoid inconveniences stemming from the cancellations. Some individuals successfully found alternative transportation methods, while others chose to cancel their trips altogether.
Adani Green Energy reported a 24% year-on-year rise in operational capacity to 20,763 MW in H1FY27, while energy sales jumped 32% to 25,747 million units. The company added 4,083 MW of greenfield capacity and expanded its battery storage portfolio. Its board will consider Q2FY27 financial results on October 21.
A parliamentary panel has called for stronger oversight of the National Testing Agency after NEET-UG 2026 was cancelled over alleged paper leaks. Its recommendations include parliamentary accountability, possible age and attempt limits, a two-stage entrance test structure, secure government-run computer-based testing centres and a national registry of blacklisted vendors. The report also flagged a 41% vacancy rate at the agency and urged permanent recruitment of examination specialists.

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