The Economic Times

Hachette CEO David Shelley warns against relying on AI to write emails, arguing that CEOs and business leaders should draft their own messages to preserve independent thinking, empathy and authenticity. With 58% of leaders in the US and UK using AI to draft emails, Shelley cautions that outsourcing workplace communication to AI could weaken essential leadership skills and create a disconnect between written messages and real-life behaviour.

The deadliest drone strike hit near a market on Sunday evening in Al-Dibab town in the southwestern state of West Kordofan, which is controlled by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that have been at war with Sudan's military since April 2023.

The French authorities have called for a curfew in Paris, specifically around the Place de la Republique and the Les Halles area. This curfew will start at 8 PM GMT on Monday night and will last until 4 AM GMT on Tuesday.

Mumbai: Jackie Shroff attends Bappi Lahiri Marg ceremony with CM Fadnavis after firing at son Tiger

Happy Dussehra 2026 Wishes: Best 75 messages, greetings and quotes to share with family and friends on the auspicious occasion of Vijaya Dashami. From heartfelt wishes for family members to cheerful messages for friends and traditional greetings invoking Lord Rama's blessings, explore these Dussehra wishes to spread happiness, positivity, peace and prosperity on October 20.

A recent Russian drone strike in a park in Kharkiv region resulted in six fatalities, including three children. The attack also injured 15 individuals and occurred while families were enjoying their time outdoors. Interior Minister Ivan Vyhivskyi shared distressing images of the aftermath, including a child's body in a stroller. Emergency crews were seen responding to the scene and managing the damaged area.

'You havent given in to cynicism, fear & anxiety': Newsoms No Kings rally message attacking Trump

Japanese scientists will launch the Martian Moons eXploration probe from Tanegashima Space Center, targeting Mars's moon Phobos. The spacecraft aims to collect samples that could reveal the origins of the Solar System and life on Earth. This mission is set for a three-year duration in the Martian region, involving collaboration with US and European space agencies. Mars's other moon, Deimos, will be observed but not landed on during this mission.

The exemption applies to holders of Maharajah INR Bonds who are Indian residents or foreign institutional investors, for the 2026-27 tax year and subsequent tax years.

Apple has announced its Pro and Tell event for October 28 in Los Angeles, where it is expected to unveil a touchscreen MacBook Pro with an OLED display, new M6-powered Macs and an OLED iPad mini 8. The event will focus on Apples Mac and iPad lineup, with the redesigned MacBook Pro models reportedly featuring 14-inch and 16-inch displays. Other expected upgrades include improved processors, new iMac colours and a redesigned iPad mini with better display quality.

Archaeologists found ancient statue fragments related to Ramses II in the Nile Delta region of Egypt. The discovery was triggered by farmer Khaled al-Shahat, who informed authorities about a unique pink stone. Excavations revealed monumental statues and inscriptions that allow further exploration of the site's history. This area previously linked to a temple dedicated to Isis provides new insights into Ramses II's building practices.

France is engulfed in protests as the public expresses growing dissatisfaction with soaring expenses and diminishing educational quality. Citizens are voicing their demands for improved services, yet the government grapples with managing an overwhelming public debt. Amid budget cuts proposed by President Macron's administration, increasing political challenges may hinder these efforts.

Manipur tense after violence: 4 killed in separate incidents; 3 CRPF personnel injured in IED blast

Ashneer Grover has given viewers a tour of DLF Camellias in Gurugram, showcasing its Olympic-sized swimming pool, snow room, bowling alley, gym, dining spaces and sports facilities. He also reveals that he wrote his book Doglapan in one of the complex's meeting rooms. With some residences reportedly costing over Rs 100 crore, the property stands out for its premium amenities, privacy and exclusive lifestyle.

Research on Nicaragua's Masaya volcano has unveiled the dynamic nature of its underground magma reservoirs over time. An analysis of satellite imagery from 2018 to 2024 has detected alterations in the caldera and Santiago crater. Some areas exhibited ground uplift, indicating rising magma, while others experienced subsidence. This continuous observation is vital to understanding potential volcanic risks and guiding local communities.

This would be Tusk's second visit to India in his capacity as the prime minister of Poland, the first being during his earlier tenure in 2010. The Polish prime minister, who is coming at the invitation of Modi, will be accompanied by Andrzej Domanski, Minister of Finance & Economy, and a large business delegation, the MEA said in a statement.

Three men were arrested after allegedly opening fire at actor Tiger Shroff's car in Mumbai's Juhu area. One of the accused, Rehan, was out on bail regarding an Arms Act case from earlier this year. Their arrest occurred on a train in Kota, Rajasthan after the incident, with two men reportedly firing several rounds. Shroff and others sustained injuries in the firing, which was captured on video.

Three individuals accused of targeting actor Tiger Shroff were arrested following a shooting incident in Mumbai. The police successfully apprehended the suspects while they were traveling on a train. After their capture, the accused received medical examinations before their transit to Mumbai Police. The firing, which occurred near a football club, left Shroff's driver injured but the actor unharmed. Investigations are ongoing as police pursue further details on the case.

Weather update for tomorrow October 20, 2026: The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, with heavy rain likely over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala and Mahe. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected across several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, East Rajasthan, Odisha, Konkan and Goa, and Madhya Maharashtra. A well-marked low-pressure area

The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a warning concerning increasing financial frauds through deepfake videos. These scams involve fraudulent advertisements impersonating political leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Victims often receive calls from international numbers claiming they have won welfare benefits or cashback rewards. They are led to make repeated payments before receiving any promised funds or rewards.

Indian nationals in Italy are urged to exercise caution and avoid protest areas as unrest occurred. Protests in cities like Milan and Turin saw violence, resulting in injuries and arrests. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni supported law enforcement and condemned violence during demonstrations. The Embassy of India provided emergency contact numbers for assistance to citizens. Authorities are monitoring events closely and encouraging peaceful demonstrations across the country.

Protests across France have led to significant declines in the country's financial markets and stocks. French government officials requested local authorities to consider imposing curfews amid the unrest. The rise in bond yields suggests increasing investor concern over France's budgetary challenges and economic outlook. Major French banks have experienced stock declines, reflecting the heightened risk of insuring French debt.

US Treasury yields experienced a rise alongside a boost in equities, particularly driven by AI stocks, which has mitigated earlier anxieties among investors. The 10-year Treasury yield saw a modest rebound after a steep decline, indicating a shift in market mood. Moreover, oil prices declined, easing inflation fears related to global tensions.

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre has warned about rising fraudulent advertisements on social media platforms. These deceptive ads feature manipulated videos of public officials and promote non-existent welfare schemes. Victims are lured with false promises of financial rewards, which leads to significant financial losses. The advisory encourages individuals to verify any claims related to government schemes through official sources.

The highly anticipated Season 3 of Nobody Wants This is set to launch on Netflix on October 22, 2026. This season delves deeper into the relationship of Joanne and Noah as they face new challenges after cohabitating. Themes of family dynamics and personal development will unfold throughout their journey. Joining the cast are new faces like Sarah Silverman and Andrew Rannells, ensuring fresh interactions.

India's free trade agreement with New Zealand will begin on October 20 and provide duty-free access for Indian goods. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade significantly by 2030, increasing it from $2.4 billion to nearly 35,000 crore. New Zealand will grant 100% market access, while India will provide tariff concessions on 70% of its tariff lines. Customs clearance timelines will be expedited, enhancing trade efficiency and reducing costs.

Artificial intelligence systems like chatbots are becoming more emotionally engaging, prompting concerns over manipulation by users. The recent policy change by Anthropic restricts cruelty towards AI models, which has reignited debates on AI welfare and consciousness. Researchers are divided on whether AI systems deserve moral consideration, reflecting uncertainty within the industry. There are fears that recognizing AI rights may weaken human accountability for harmful actions.

Citing the presence of YouTube, Netflix and Amazon, Banerjee said global media companies recognise Indias long-term growth potential and continue to invest billions of dollars in the market.

A Brazilian bricklayer sold his belongings and travelled nearly 2,000 km to meet a woman he believed was his future wife, only to discover that she was an AI-generated character on TikTok. Edimar Martins, 49, ran out of money after failing to find her and received assistance to return home. The person behind the account denied speaking to him or inviting him to travel.

Arpita Sahu quit her HR job in Delhi after four and a half years and moved to Goa in search of purpose and a fresh start. Through Instagram videos, she has shared her hopes of finding a sense of belonging alongside concerns about financial security, life without a regular salary and the pressure to succeed. Her decision has prompted mixed reactions online, with users offering advice, encouragement and perspectives on finding fulfilment.

School holiday tomorrow, October 20, 2026: Schools in several states are expected to remain closed for Dussehra and Vijayadashami, while West Bengal will observe Bijoya Dashami on October 21. Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka have reported extended Dasara holidays, but reopening dates may vary. Students and parents should check their schools official holiday circular for confirmation.

India will implement a quota system for importing apples, kiwifruit, Manuka honey, and albumins from New Zealand. The quotas will gradually increase over five years, allowing for proper regulation of imports. Apple imports will be capped initially, with no allowances in the first year. The duty rates will vary depending on the product and its CIF value, affecting import dynamics.

The TATA Womens Premier League 2027 auction will take place in Kochi, Kerala. A total of 146 players are available for the five franchises to choose from. Of these, 119 are Indian players, while 27 players are overseas cricketers. The auction will begin at 5:30 PM, allowing teams to strengthen their squads with strategic choices.

The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement will come into effect on October 20, enhancing trade for both nations. New Zealand expects increased demand for its agricultural products, particularly kiwifruit, honey, and apples, in India. The agreement includes provisions to ensure tariff-free access for Indian goods in New Zealand's market. Both countries aim to strengthen economic ties and improve productivity in agricultural sectors.

Helicopter services linking Sanjauli in Shimla with Rampur and Reckong Peo will begin on October 21. The service aims to improve air connectivity and provide easier transport options for residents in remote areas. It will operate three days a week, offering timely departures and arrivals. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced this initiative to enhance regional transportation.

The Kingdom Centre, a 99storey tower in downtown Riyadh that houses the regional office of the International Monetary Fund, has also requested workers in its offices to stay away until further notice.

Indian tax officials are investigating Pernod Ricard and Diageo for how they classified bulk Scotch imports. These companies may have improperly benefitted from reduced tariffs under a recent trade agreement. Tax inspectors made surprising visits to both companies' offices to gather information about their practices. The investigations are part of a broader scrutiny faced by foreign investors in India.

Titan Company Ltd has successfully fulfilled its obligation by redeeming commercial papers worth Rs 1,000 crore, originally issued on July 21, 2026. As the maturity date has arrived, all investors have duly received their returns. This action adheres to the regulations established by the Securities and Exchange Board of India. As part of the Tata Group and functioning under the Tamil Nadu government, Titan encompasses various lifestyle brands.

Elon Musk has unveiled an ambitious plan to grant one SpaceX share to every American child next year, aiming to empower future generations through investment opportunities. With more than 72 million minors in the U.S., questions arise regarding who qualifies for this potential windfall, valued at over $10.5 billion based on current prices. Final specifics from Musk's team remain pending, igniting curiosity across the nation.

Elina Svitolina has publicly addressed the emotional impact of the war in Ukraine on her personal life. After difficult contemplation, she announced her separation from French tennis player Gal Monfils. Svitolina expressed a need to rediscover herself outside their marriage for her well-being. Despite this change, she emphasized that their commitment to co-parenting their daughter, Skai, remains unchanged.

US stocks open higher as AI-related shares rebound from last weeks sharp selloff. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq gain at the open, supported by lower oil prices ahead of a busy earnings week. The Dow slips marginally, while investors track technology stocks and upcoming corporate results.

Mumbai Police arrested three individuals for allegedly shooting at actor Tiger Shroff's car in Andheri. Two of the arrested suspects are from Haryana, while the third is from Bihar, with no minors involved. Investigators are questioning the suspects to uncover the motive behind the attack. The motorcycle used in the incident has been located, but no weapons have been recovered.