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National News

The Economic Times

National / The Economic Times

SC asks govt to broaden inflated pricing review beyond oncology

The Supreme Court has asked the government to address high markups on medicines and medical devices. The court questioned the decision to limit recent price controls to anti-cancer drugs alone. Concerns were raised about the inflated prices of common medical devices such as cardiac stents. The court emphasized the importance of controlling medicine prices for the benefit of patients. Further hearings on this matter are scheduled for October 27.

13 Oct 2026 1:27 am
Centre & states to draft rules for existing arrest cases under GST

The Centre will collaborate with states to create standard procedures for handling arrest cases. Starting April 1, 2027, an invoice management system will be mandatory, minimizing human errors during digital matching. A quarterly review of GST refund risk assessment will also be implemented to maintain consistency across jurisdictions. The proposed changes aim to decriminalize several GST offences and decrease litigation for businesses.

13 Oct 2026 1:27 am
Fitch unit raises India FY27 growth forecast to 7.5%

BMI has raised India's economic growth forecast for 2026-27 to 7.5% from the previous estimate of 6.8%. The agency cites strong growth momentum and ongoing investment in artificial intelligence as key factors. However, risks from rising oil prices and potential El Nino disruptions could negatively impact growth. Additionally, the forecast for 2027-28 has been adjusted down to 6.3%, reflecting concerns for household consumption.

13 Oct 2026 1:23 am
Israels opposition wants Netanyahu out. Its leaders positions on Palestine reveal the limits of a political shake-up

Four opposition parties in Israel are collaborating to remove Benjamin Netanyahu from power in the upcoming election. While they agree on ousting Netanyahu, their commitment to alter policies regarding Palestinians is uncertain. Notably, key leaders within the alliance maintain strict positions against Palestinian statehood and support for settlements. The potential shift in government may not lead to significant changes in the treatment of Palestinians.

13 Oct 2026 1:23 am
US midterm elections: Who is Michele Tafoya? The four-time Emmy winner who covered 327 NFL games before entering politics and is contesting in Minnesota Senate race

Michele Tafoya, a former sportscaster, is running for the Senate in Minnesota with a focus on accountability. Her campaign emphasizes fiscal responsibility, government transparency, and family-oriented policies while criticizing corruption. Tafoya's financial disclosures reveal a wealth significantly higher than her opponent, Peggy Flanagan, raising potential voter concerns. Flanagan has highlighted her background, focusing on economic issues affecting everyday families.

13 Oct 2026 1:22 am
Motivational quote of the day by Eddie Murphy: You dont have to prove youre the funniest person in the room. Sometimes... Powerful lessons on authenticity, vulnerability, self-acceptance, emotional intelligence, relationships and why does showing your true self take courage?

Eddie Murphy quote of the day: You dont have to prove youre the funniest person in the room - Eddie Murphy is an American comedian, actor, writer and producer born on April 3, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York. He first gained widespread attention after joining Saturday Night Live in the early 1980s, where his impressions and comic performances helped establish his reputation. He went on to star in films including 48 Hrs., Trading Places and Beverly Hills Cop.

13 Oct 2026 1:10 am
India draws $351 billion in Greenfield FDI, outpaces China

Speaking to ET, Nikolaus Lang, managing director & senior partner at BCG highlighted the Indian market as the biggest draw for investors amid a sweeping global realignment. He, however, stressed on sustained focus on infrastructure development, skilling and cost competitiveness for India to further enhance its manufacturing footprint on a global scale.

13 Oct 2026 12:58 am
Wheat sowing faces heat from water shortage this winter

Farmers in India are likely to reduce wheat planting this winter due to water scarcity and low minimum support prices. Regions such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh may see the most significant impact from these conditions. The state governments are encouraging farmers to consider crops that require less water, which may lead to a shift in crop choices.

13 Oct 2026 12:52 am
BJP dubs Rahul Gandhi's protest march to SC 'pure theatrics'

BJP leaders are criticizing Rahul Gandhi for his recent protests and statements regarding electoral issues. They accuse him of undermining constitutional institutions and engaging in theatrics. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has labeled Congress leadership as lacking vision. BJP MP Anurag Thakur emphasizes the need for evidence over mere allegations in political discourse. The party believes Congress should reflect on its leadership instead of blaming others for electoral failures.

13 Oct 2026 12:47 am
SC calls for safer firecrackers, voluntary restraint over curbs

The Supreme Court called for a balanced approach to firecracker usage during discussions on air pollution. Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized public awareness and self-restraint over enforceable restrictions. Discussions included concerns about health risks particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. The bench suggested promoting safer alternatives to highly polluting firecrackers during festivals.

13 Oct 2026 12:41 am
Sunil Mittal gets highest French civilian award

The honour recognises Mittal's contributions to strengthening economic ties between France and India as well as his achievements in the telecommunications and digital infrastructure and satellite communications space.

13 Oct 2026 12:41 am
No ruling yet on revised Form 6, says Supreme Court

The Supreme Court clarified that it has neither approved nor disapproved the Election Commission's revised Form 6. The court explained that the validity of this modified form was not previously adjudicated. A bench emphasized that the revised Form 6 did not exist when delivering the Bihar judgment in May 2026. Counsel for the petitioner referred to prior court observations regarding the form's approval.

13 Oct 2026 12:40 am
Antarctic sea ice hits alarming low in 2026: Scientists raise concerns over growing decline

In 2026, Antarctic sea ice extent hit its lowest annual maximum, highlighting alarming trends associated with climate change. Satellite data show a persistent decline, raising questions about the broader implications of these changes. Over the decades, fluctuations in ice coverage have been noted, with advanced technology employing passive microwave sensors for precise detection of sea ice versus open water.

13 Oct 2026 12:38 am
Jantar Mantar locked out as protest site; Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground and CBD Ground namesdesignated sites

Delhi Police has decided to denotify Jantar Mantar as a designated protest site amid security concerns. The new sites for protests include Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground in East Delhi. Both Ramlila and Burari Grounds are significantly farther from the previous location, causing logistical considerations for demonstrators. However, Ramlila Maidan has limited availability for bookings until late December.

13 Oct 2026 12:36 am
Assocham seeks review of bidders' qualificationfor transmission units

Assocham has suggested that the ministry improve technical qualification requirements for companies involved in transmission projects. This proposal aims to ensure that only experienced developers participate in the bidding process. The current framework allows companies to qualify based on broad infrastructure experience, which may delay project execution. The association recommends that qualifications be tailored to project value, voltage class, and complexity.

13 Oct 2026 12:34 am
Navratri 2026 Day 3 Colour: Maa Chandraghanta, puja vidhi, bhog, fasting foods, mantra and wishes to share on WhatsApp

Shardiya Navratri 2026 Day 3: Navratri is a vibrant nine-day Hindu celebration dedicated to Goddess Durga. On October 13, 2026, the third day of the festival, devotees pray to Maa Chandraghanta, seeking her divine guidance. The day is marked by the passionate color red, often worn by worshippers. Traditional offerings include delicious milk-based delights like Kheer, alongside varying fasting practices rooted in family traditions and regional heritage.

13 Oct 2026 12:34 am
No takers: Amid SIR tussle, EC's cloud-linked electoral operations hit turbulence

The Election Commission of India is undergoing difficulties related to the contract with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. As the expiration of the contract approaches, the Commission faces operational risks. Discussions are underway to ensure continuity of electoral IT services during the Special Intensive Revision. A tender has raised concerns as the sole qualifying vendor has not met all requirements.

13 Oct 2026 12:33 am
West Bengal SIR appeals pile up: 37 lakh cases await verdict

Seventeen Appellate Tribunals in West Bengal have resolved 126,194 cases while 37,05,235 appeals remain pending. These appeals primarily stem from disputes over the electoral rolls revision. Murshidabad and Malda, two minority-dominated districts, have the highest pending appeals relative to their disposals. While Hooghly district leads in case resolutions, many judges' resignations have led to vacancies in the Tribunals.

13 Oct 2026 12:32 am
UK announces 1 billion in new commercial deals with India

The two sides also agreed to exchange data annually on the use of CETA, which came into effect on July 15. The data will cover businesses' claims for lower tariffs and feedback on implementation, beginning a year after the pact comes into force. Communities across the UK and India are set to benefit from over 1 billion in new deals.

13 Oct 2026 12:24 am
'This is Shiv's baraat: Oppn leaders join Rahul Gandhi's march, move SC to halt SIR

Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, led a significant protest against the Chief Election Commissioner. The protest involved a march from Constitution Club to Barakhamba-Bhagwan Das road, organized by the INDIA bloc. Lawyers submitted petitions to the Supreme Court seeking a stay on an ongoing issue related to election reform. Gandhi indicated that the movement aims to protect the Constitution and is open to public participation.

13 Oct 2026 12:23 am
New Zealand Tour is the most exciting series this India will play this year: Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin shared insights on India's upcoming tour of New Zealand, emphasizing the importance of the series. He pointed out the challenges posed by the experienced New Zealand seam attack in home conditions. While discussing India's pace-bowling resources, Ashwin highlighted Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return and Prasidh Krishna's fitness. He also assessed the potential contributions of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the 2027 World Cup.

13 Oct 2026 12:21 am
Sean 'Diddy' Combs rushed out of prison after an injury: Here's what happened to the music mogul as he receives emergency medical treatment

Sean 'Diddy' Combs was transported from FCI Fort Dix for medical care after suffering a head injury. Reports suggest the injury is not life-threatening, although the cause remains unclear. After receiving treatment, Combs was returned to the prison and placed in solitary confinement. Combs is serving a 50-month sentence for transportation to engage in prostitution, among other allegations. His expected release date has been postponed to March 2, 2028.

13 Oct 2026 12:19 am
US stocks: Bumble shares surge 52% on reports of $1 billion privatisation talks

Bumble is reportedly in advanced negotiations for a private acquisition by Ithaca Holdings, which values the company at approximately $1 billion. This potential acquisition follows a decline in Bumble's market valuation, which was around $389 million recently. Shares of Bumble saw a significant increase, which rose nearly 52% after the acquisition discussions became public. The company is facing challenges in a competitive market, particularly with younger users disengaging.

13 Oct 2026 12:11 am
BJP's caste outreach ahead of UP polls reflected in governor appointments

Dushyant Gautam, a Jatav (SC) leader and general secretary in the BJP's outgoing organisational team, has been appointed Governor of Sikkim, while senior Jharkhand BJP leader Braj Mohan Ram, who belongs to the Dhobi (SC) community, will take over as Governor of Odisha.

13 Oct 2026 12:07 am
High prices are testing Latino voter loyalties in a key battleground district

Victor Martinez hosts a Spanish-language radio show in Allentown, focusing on Latino voters' concerns about the economy. Listeners express frustration over rising prices for fuel and groceries amid political challenges. Martinez, who previously supported Republican candidates, is backing Democratic candidate Bob Brooks this election. His show provides a platform for sharing stories that connect listeners with political discourse.

13 Oct 2026 12:03 am
Warren Buffett says most people shouldn't pick stocks. Here's how he wants his family to invest his wealth

Warren Buffett continues to recommend low-cost S&P 500 index funds for building wealth over time. He emphasizes that average investors should avoid complicated strategies and high fees that diminish returns. Buffett's guidance extends to his family's financial future, advocating a similar investment approach for his wife's wealth. He believes in the long-term growth potential of the American economy despite past crises.

13 Oct 2026 12:02 am
KBS bought Portlands 16-story Meier & Frank department store for $54 million in 2016; it then transformed the landmark into Class A mixed-use space

In November 2016, real estate firm KBS bought the 16-story building for $54 million in a joint venture with private developer Sterling Bay. Their goal was to turn the retail property into a Class A mixed-use building while preserving its historical architecture. The $16.6 million project took a year to complete. It covered 200,000 square feet of core renovations and 23,000 square feet of interior updates. Figures cited in the 2021 project account put Portland's technology workforce at 60,550 peo

13 Oct 2026 12:02 am
SC registry points out 10 defects in Rahul Gandhi's plea in SIR case

On Monday, the Supreme Court registry identified multiple defects in a petition filed by Rahul Gandhi and others. The registry requested a clear copy of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's ID card and noted missing pages in the documentation. Additionally, a shortfall of over Rs 200 in court fees was highlighted. The petition seeks an independent committee to investigate electoral roll modifications during the Special Intensive Revision period.

12 Oct 2026 11:58 pm
Supreme Court bars coercive steps against Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann's aide in corruption case

A division bench comprising Justices M M Sundresh and Prasanna B Varale issued notice on the Punjab government's petition challenging a Punjab and Haryana High Court order directing the CBI to register a case and investigate allegations of corruption involving Ghuman and others.

12 Oct 2026 11:54 pm
How did ancient Roman engineers make water flow uphill? The ingenious technology behind their aqueducts

Roman engineers had advanced water transport systems, including aqueducts and inverted siphons, to navigate challenging terrains. By leveraging gravitational forces and elevation variations, they effectively redirected water across valleys and uphill. Additionally, they incorporated mechanical innovations like Archimedes screws and water wheels, complemented by pumps that facilitated the transport of water under pressure, significantly enhancing water management throughout the Roman Empire.

12 Oct 2026 11:49 pm
Nigel Farage vows to halt UK asylum system for five years

We will end the asylum system for up to five years ... because we're in the most terrible mess as a country, Farage said in a speech in Kent, southern England. We have to end this asylum scam, and we have to end this racket, said the pro-Brexit figurehead. The next general election is not due until 2029.

12 Oct 2026 11:42 pm
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under emergency, Pakistan Army eyes bigger role

Pakistan's federal government has declared a state of emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, escalating a political dispute with the Opposition-led provincial government at a time of prolonged security tensions along the border with Afghanistan.

12 Oct 2026 11:40 pm
Arbys new chicken cheesesteak sandwiches are here: 3 new flavours join the menu for a limited time

Arbys plans to introduce three Chicken Cheesesteak sandwiches that feature different flavors and toppings. Customers can choose from a classic, deluxe, or spicy version for a limited time. Each sandwich contains marinated chicken, melted cheese, and is served on a toasted roll. The new additions aim to expand Arbys menu while maintaining its emphasis on meat-focused options. Customers can find these sandwiches at participating Arbys locations across the United States.

12 Oct 2026 11:38 pm
Prithvi Shaw gets back together with Akriti Agarwal after engagement split; she says together, we are enough for each other

In a heartfelt announcement, Akriti Agarwal shared her reconciliation with cricketer Prithvi Shaw following a short-lived engagement breakup. Acknowledging the impact of external voices on her previous decision, she highlighted that open communication helped them reconnect. With a commitment to prioritizing their love and trust, Akriti has asked for privacy as they embark on this renewed journey together.

12 Oct 2026 11:37 pm
'Illegal aliens have no sanctuary': Mullin blasts Hochul over reported rejection of 16K ICE orders

'Illegal aliens have no sanctuary': Mullin blasts Hochul over reported rejection of 16K ICE orders

12 Oct 2026 11:35 pm
Russian strikes put Trump's energy ceasefire in doubt

Trump announced the purported ceasefire days after unveiling a deal to buy diesel from Russia, which Zelenskyy criticised as a reversal of years of Western efforts to isolate the Russian economy. Trump has also urged Ukrainians to remove Zelenskyy through an election, marking an unusually sharp exchange in a relationship strained since Trump returned to power in 2025.

12 Oct 2026 11:33 pm
'Stay tuned for...': US envoy Sergio Gor on India-US ties after Modi-Trump talks

US Ambassador Sergio Gor emphasized the strengthening collaboration between India and America in defense and healthcare sectors. During an event in Kolkata, he mentioned recent military exercises involving Indian and American forces. Gor also highlighted significant investments in information technology and shared trust in India's pharmaceutical industry. The US is actively engaging with West Bengal to foster ties in various sectors.

12 Oct 2026 11:27 pm
Same cause, separate protests: Why Congress and CJP are keeping their distance

Rahul Gandhi expressed solidarity with all protests against electoral issues, while Congress and Cockroach Janta Party organized separate demonstrations. Both groups target electoral irregularities but have differences in their mobilization and political approaches. The relationship between them reflects tensions over political space and coordination amid ongoing protests. Recent events have highlighted how solidarity can be complex among various opposition groups challenging similar issues.

12 Oct 2026 11:26 pm
Bengaluru man says city gets unfairly blamed for traffic despite congestion in other Indian cities; shares his early-morning airport experience

Nihal Shetty, a resident of Bengaluru, defended the city's traffic situation based on his airport experience. He traveled at 6:10 am for an 8:10 am flight and faced no difficulties. Shetty argued that Bengaluru receives undue criticism for its traffic issues, which are common across India. Some social media users challenged Shetty's views and shared their concerns about peak hours.

12 Oct 2026 11:14 pm
Pinarayi Vijayan files 4 appeals in Kerala HC against order to register case in Masappadi case

The court issued the directive while considering a plea seeking a detailed investigation into allegations of illegal monetary transactions between a private mining firm and high-profile political leaders and entities.

12 Oct 2026 11:12 pm
Delhi Police warns of strict action against 'rumour-mongers'; 300 posts taken down

Delhi Police is monitoring various social media platforms to curb spread of misinformation in the wake of protests in the capital, with around 300 posts allegedly aimed at spreading rumours or creating public unrest taken down, police sources said.

12 Oct 2026 11:10 pm
IRGC Navy says it hit third supertanker in Strait of Hormuz

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy struck a supertanker in the Strait of Hormuz for non-compliance. Two Indian nationals remain missing after a separate drone attack on MT Petro Dolphin earlier this month. The search-and-rescue operations are active, with local Coast Guard involved in the efforts. Concurrently, all 11 sailors aboard another vessel, M/T Valthera, were reported safe after a projectile strike.

12 Oct 2026 11:01 pm
US moves to stop AI data centres from pushing up household electricity bills. Here's what could change for Americans

As artificial intelligence expands across the US, data centres are consuming more electricity, raising concerns about rising power bills for ordinary Americans. The US House of Representatives is expected to vote on bipartisan legislation, the Ratepayer Protection Act, which aims to make large data centres pay their share of the costs of electricity infrastructure. Here's what the proposed bill could change and what it could mean for household electricity bills.

12 Oct 2026 10:58 pm
Himanta Biswa Sarma announces Assam rallies against Rahul Gandhi over EC row, backs nationwide SIR every 5 years

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced rallies from October 13 to 31 against Rahul Gandhi. The rallies aim to counter what Sarma claims is Congress's undermining of democratic institutions. Sarma emphasized the need for a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls due to concerns over illegal infiltration from Bangladesh. He criticized the Congress party's double standards regarding election results and democratic processes.

12 Oct 2026 10:53 pm