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National News

The Economic Times

National / The Economic Times

Reservation push by states faces judicial tests

The Supreme Court upheld the Madras HC's ruling that religious conversion from Hinduism to another religion does not entitle a person to SC or OBC reservation. The case concerns Tamil Nadu's 3.5% quota for Muslim OBCs. In March 2024, the then DMK government allowed OBCs, SCs and Denotified Communities members who converted to Islam to claim the quota. The Madras HC struck down the order in June 2024 as unconstitutional. The TVK government's appeal was rejected by the SC.

17 Oct 2026 10:02 pm
Weather tomorrow October 18: IMD forecasts heavy rain, thunderstorms across southern states; check latest state-wise updates

Weather Tomorrow: IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across parts of southern India, with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu among the affected regions. Rain is expected to continue in several areas through October 23. Fishermen have also been advised to exercise caution along parts of the Arabian Sea coast.

17 Oct 2026 10:00 pm
No Kings anti-Trump movement holds over 3000 rallies across 50 states ahead of November 3 US midterm elections. What does it mean for Donald Trump, Republican party?

No Kings anti-Trump movement: More than 3,200 events had been planned in all 50 states, after the two previous nationwide events attracted millions of participants.

17 Oct 2026 9:59 pm
Woman journalist Richa Parashar files FIR against Rahul Gandhi for alleged manhandling during protest

Richa Parashar, a journalist, filed a complaint against Rahul Gandhi for manhandling during a protest. The incident occurred on October 12 while covering a demonstration by Opposition leaders. Parashar alleged that Gandhi grabbed her and caused her to fall, resulting in injuries. She emphasized the lack of assistance from his supporters after the fall. Parashar has requested that media organizations release footage of the incident.

17 Oct 2026 9:54 pm
Kolkata Durga Puja pandal stampede: At least 25 taken to hospital after Chorbagan pandal incident

At least 25 people were injured following a stampede-like situation at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata, police said. The injured were shifted to hospital for treatment. Further details about the incident are awaited.

17 Oct 2026 9:48 pm
Get me a job, take my salary: Bengaluru graduates unusual offer sparks debate

Bengaluru graduate offers first salary for job, fresher offers salary for job referral, AI ML jobs for freshers, Bengaluru jobseeker Reddit post, BTech artificial intelligence graduate, software engineering jobs for freshers, first month salary as referral reward, entry-level jobs require experience, Reddit job search debate, employee referral bonus

17 Oct 2026 8:56 pm
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu calls for roadmap to boost yak economy, herders income

Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the importance of creating a roadmap for yak conservation. He highlighted the need to support yak herders through suitable policy interventions from both levels of government. A proposed cooperative society aims to help herders improve their income and market access. The Chief Minister also called for capacity building and scientific practices to strengthen the yak economy.

17 Oct 2026 8:44 pm
International Oil prices to jump 'super spike', claims energy research analyst, predicts global oil rates

International Oil prices: The recovery in Middle Eastern oil exports, higher production outside the Persian Gulf and dwindling demand had narrowed the global supply deficit sharply.

17 Oct 2026 8:42 pm
Benjamin Satterley cause of death: How can bronchial asthma turn fatal? Understanding the condition behind AEW Wrestler Pac's death

Benjamin Satterley, renowned in wrestling as Pac, passed away on September 27 at 40 years old. His death was attributed to bronchial asthma, ruled natural by the Cook County Medical Examiners Office. Satterley was discovered unconscious in a rental car after competing in an AEW match against Andrade El Idolo. His wife, Natalie, shared a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on their life and plans together.

17 Oct 2026 8:37 pm
Manipur violence: 1 killed, 4 injured in militant firing

Kuki organisations alleged Seikhohao Haokip was killed in the NSCN-IM attack at Chassad Village. What is baffling is that the attackers are freely using the Chassad Police Station for carrying out attacks on Kuki civilians. The incident took place while these people had gone to repair an electric line.

17 Oct 2026 8:37 pm
Saudi Arabias Houthi trap: The underdog sets the price of war

The Houthis have demonstrated their capability to threaten Saudi Arabia's military superiority and economic infrastructure. The conflict continues as Saudi Arabia struggles to contain the Houthi advances, particularly in Taiz. The Houthis leverage their local knowledge and increased arms capabilities, complicating Saudi military efforts. Saudi reliance on fragmented Yemeni forces for support has not proven effective against Houthi strategies.

17 Oct 2026 8:36 pm
Commerce Ministry organizes Leveraging FTAs outreach program in Jaipur to boost exports

The Commerce Ministry organized an outreach event in Jaipur, targeting exporters to clarify the use of benefits provided by India's free trade agreements. This initiative aims to translate preferential market access into tangible export opportunities for Indian enterprises, emphasizing Rajasthan's strengths in textiles, handicrafts, and gems. Plans for coordination among stakeholders are outlined to optimize support for exporters moving forward.

17 Oct 2026 8:36 pm
CEA Nageswaran flags five risks of AI, warns of threats to jobs, human skills & financial stability

CEA Nageswaran flags five risks of AI, warns of threats to jobs, human skills & financial stability

17 Oct 2026 8:16 pm
Kanya Pujan 2026 date: October 18 or 19? Check Maha Ashtami timings and reason behind tithi confusion this Navratri

When is Kanya Pujan in 2026? Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami tithis overlap on October 19, creating confusion over the ritual date. Ashtami ends at 10:51 am IST, according to the cited panchang timings, while the day families choose for Kanjak Puja depends on their customs and the applicable local muhurat.

17 Oct 2026 8:10 pm
Hornbill with broken upper and lower beak gets 3D-printed replacements in pioneering surgery

The bird surgery involved using CT scans, fragments of the hornbills original beak and titanium components to create custom-made replacements. The bird picked up a mouse the following morning and resumed preening within days, while veterinarians continue to assess the prostheses durability and their potential use in treating similar injuries in other birds.

17 Oct 2026 7:50 pm
Amitabh Kant backs India to produce world-beating golfers in coming years

Amitabh Kant said India's demographic advantage and rising participation among youngsters would help the country emerge as a global force in golf over the next decade.

17 Oct 2026 7:46 pm
Rs 3,600 crore business enquiries at 5-day handicraft fair

Over 7,300 buyers participated in the 62nd IHGF Delhi Fair held from October 13 to 17. Business enquiries at the fair totaled Rs 3,600 crore, demonstrating strong international interest. Buyers from 105 countries, including the US, UK, and Germany, were present. Many brands indicated a significant shift toward sourcing more products from Indian manufacturers. India's handicraft exports reached $3.75 billion for the fiscal year 2025-26.

17 Oct 2026 7:37 pm
Employee says micromanaging boss won't allow coffee at work, keeps changing office clock

An employees account of a manager repeatedly changing workplace rules has triggered debate over professional boundaries and excessive supervision. Along with restricting coffee consumption, the boss allegedly keeps resetting the office clock three minutes ahead. Online commenters have urged the worker to document the incidents, stand up to unreasonable demands and explore other employment options.

17 Oct 2026 7:31 pm
BJP's MLA count rises to 10 in Meghalaya as Assembly as Speaker recognises merger of 8 UDP MLAs

Meghalaya's political scene has experienced a notable transformation as Speaker Thomas A Sangma confirmed the merger of eight MLAs from the United Democratic Party to the Bharatiya Janata Party. The BJP's membership surges from two to ten, diminishing the UDP's count to four in a 60-member assembly.

17 Oct 2026 7:30 pm
New York teen Mike Satterlee who built $808,000 3D-printing business at 19 reveals how much it made in 2026

Mike Satterlee, a 19-year-old entrepreneur from Clifton Park, New York, turned a $500 3D printer into CruiseCup, a business that generated $808,000 in gross revenue in 2025. Despite the impressive sales, the young entrepreneur pays himself just $500 to $1,500 a month, choosing to reinvest much of the money into expanding his 160-printer operation

17 Oct 2026 7:25 pm
US midterm election 2026: Democrats may stun Donald Trump, Republican party by winning majority, claims election forecaster, shows how

Donald Trump faces challenges to thwart the political momentum of Democrats ahead of November 3 US midterm elections.

17 Oct 2026 7:25 pm
Iranian fishermen searching for fish find floating iPhones, luxury perfumes in Hormuz

A cargo vessels sinking in the Strait of Hormuz has left questions over maritime safety after Iranian fishermen recovered goods from the surrounding waters. All 21 crew members of the GFS Pride escaped, but competing explanations for the incident, including a mine or a possible missile or drone strike, remain unconfirmed.

17 Oct 2026 6:56 pm
Nepal floods 'defining moment' for climate action: UN

The country suffered one of the worst disasters in its history on August 26, when a mountain collapse near the China border triggered catastrophic floods that killed more than 1,400 people and left over 5,000 missing.

17 Oct 2026 6:51 pm
Children have fundamental right to access internet, can't impose blanket ban on its use: SC

The Supreme Court affirmed the right to access the internet as fundamental for children. It ordered the creation of a national database to detect and remove harmful content targeting minors. The court emphasized the importance of content moderation while ensuring child safety online. It implemented measures to combat the increase in child sexual exploitation material on digital platforms.

17 Oct 2026 6:44 pm
Imran Khan moves Bombay High Court after FRRO directs him to leave India by October 28: Report

Imran Khan has moved the Bombay High Court challenging the FRROs notice directing him to leave India by October 28 over alleged violations of the Foreigners Act. The actor has alleged procedural lapses, denial of a prior hearing and violation of his rights as an OCI cardholder. The plea follows a show-cause notice seeking cancellation of his OCI registration.

17 Oct 2026 6:44 pm
'He's a jihadist': Trump takes another jab at Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed | Midterm elections

'He's a jihadist': Trump takes another jab at Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed | Midterm elections

17 Oct 2026 6:33 pm
US' Russia sanction waiver a relief for India's exporters, energy security: Experts

The waiver of sanctions under the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act provides relief for India's energy security. Experts believe that continued access to Russian crude will support economic growth and ease inflationary pressures. While the waiver offers temporary relief, uncertainty remains regarding future contracts and investments. Trade organizations express hope for improving bilateral trade relations and advancing discussions between India and the US.

17 Oct 2026 6:10 pm
India vs West Indies 5th T20I: Pitch, weather forecast, head-to-head record and full squads

Ind vs WI T20 Bangalore Weather: India vs West Indies 5th T20I could face weather-related interruptions in Bengaluru, where a 70% chance of night-time rain raises the prospect of a shortened game. The Chinnaswamy surface is expected to favour batters, with first-innings scores potentially crossing 160 runs. Check the head-to-head statistics, complete squads and the stadiums return to international cricket.

17 Oct 2026 5:46 pm
Autopen scandal explodes at Biden cover-up hearing; Senators erupt: 'Who was the real Prez?':

Autopen scandal explodes at Biden cover-up hearing; Senators erupt: 'Who was the real Prez?':

17 Oct 2026 5:41 pm
Indias Zorawar tank for China border faces 2-year delay as Armys new demand puts engineers to the test

Indias Zorawar light tank must overcome a difficult engineering trade-off before it can fulfil its role in the Himalayas. Stronger armour could help protect crews against heavier weapons, but additional weight may undermine the mobility that sets the vehicle apart. The decision could shape the tanks engine requirements, testing schedule and planned induction around 2028-2029.

17 Oct 2026 5:36 pm
Karnataka HC issues notice on royal fragrances' plea seeking action over Bengaluru IT Park Land

The Karnataka High Court has issued a notice concerning a petition by Royal Fragrances Private Limited. This petition requests action over alleged lease violations for land intended for an IT park. The court directed that the matter be heard again after two weeks for further proceedings. Royal Fragrances claims that several financial transactions should be reviewed due to possible violations.

17 Oct 2026 5:32 pm
Why Are Foreign Investors Leaving India? Blackstones Jonathan Gray Explains

Why Are Foreign Investors Leaving India? Blackstones Jonathan Gray Explains

17 Oct 2026 5:28 pm
India vs West Indies T20 Playing 11: Probable XIs, TV channel and online streaming details

Ind vs WI Live Streaming Telecast: India and West Indies will battle for the series in the fifth T20I in Bengaluru, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar potentially returning to Indias line-up. Find out when the match starts, where to watch the live telecast and streaming, and the probable playing XIs for both sides ahead of the series decider.

17 Oct 2026 5:20 pm
Texas voter registration glitch: What to do if your name is missing from the voter list before early midterm voting begins Monday

How to vote in the US midterm: A new voter registration glitch in Texas has raised concerns ahead of early voting for the 2026 US midterm elections, which begins October 19. Here's how to check your voter registration status, what to do if your name is missing from the voter list, and how to contact election officials.

17 Oct 2026 5:15 pm
Cockroach Janta Party chief Abhijit Dipke granted bail subject to conditions, says Delhi Police

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijit Dipke has been granted bail subject to certain conditions, Delhi Police said on Saturday. He was arrested on Friday ahead of the partys proposed Lehra Do Tiranga rally at Central Park in Connaught Place, Delhi. Dipke will be released after signing a peace bond.

17 Oct 2026 4:49 pm
Former NHB chairman Raj Vikash Verma passes away at 72; pioneered mortgage guarantee in India

Raj Vikash Verma, a leading figure in the financial sector, passed away at the age of 72. He played a crucial role in advancing housing finance and mortgage markets in India. Verma served as the chairman of the National Housing Bank and oversaw many key initiatives in the sector. His work laid the foundation for mortgage-backed securitization and affordable housing programs.

17 Oct 2026 4:47 pm
'External forces created uncertainty': CJI Surya Kant says NLSIU Convocation might not have happened

Chief Justice of India (CJI) and Chancellor of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Justice Surya Kant, on Saturday said that unexpected and unfortunate circumstances driven by certain external forces had created uncertainty over the 34th annual convocation, adding that for a while, it seemed the occasion might not take place as hoped.

17 Oct 2026 4:38 pm
DMK MPs meet demands for CEC's removal over SIR row

The DMK parliamentary party meeting under M K Stalin adopted resolutions against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The party claims the Special Intensive Revision process disenfranchised genuine voters and demanded a thorough inquiry. MPs will submit a memorandum to the President of India for scrapping the SIR process. They support ongoing youth movements protesting election discrepancies and criticize Congress and TVK for their double standards.

17 Oct 2026 4:35 pm
Rising borrowing costs signal funding risks for global AI expansion: Jefferies report

As the financial markets grapple with emerging pressures, substantial investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure are evident. Companies like Oracle and CoreWeave are facing heightened credit risk, indicating struggles with borrowing amidst rising financing costs. Investors need to keep a close eye on credit spreads to gauge the viability of AI project funding.

17 Oct 2026 4:34 pm
AI race may depend more on access to power, infrastructure than chip supply: Morgan Stanley

According to Morgan Stanley's latest analysis, the burgeoning AI infrastructure market is on track to experience a dire electricity shortfall by 2028. This impending shortage poses a serious risk for smaller enterprises striving to keep pace with their larger counterparts. A predicted 32-gigawatt power deficit threatens data-center development and chip deployment. While global strategies might be an option for some, the internal power dilemmas in the U.S. will persist.

17 Oct 2026 4:32 pm
Haryana: Farmers block highway at Ambala over paddy-procurement restrictions

Farmers organized a protest on the Ambala-Hisar highway regarding paddy procurement issues on Saturday. They demanded an increase in the procurement limit from 26.26 quintals to 32 quintals per acre. Farmers also requested expedited verification of their crops through the required online portal, which affects their sales. Police diverted traffic as farmers maintained their blockade to voice these concerns.

17 Oct 2026 4:32 pm
ixigo Q2 profit at Rs 63 cr on robust show in hotel booking biz

Ixigo reported a remarkable turnaround with a consolidated net profit of Rs 63.42 crore for the September quarter, bouncing back from a net loss of Rs 3.46 crore from last year. The surge in hotel bookings played a key role in this financial upswing, leading to operational revenue of Rs 320.96 crore.

17 Oct 2026 4:21 pm
Who will pay for today's optimism if AI goes wrong? CEA Anantha Nageswaran answers

Chief Economic Adviser Anantha Nageswaran raised concerns over the financial risks linked to artificial intelligence. He stated that finance ministries, central banks, and households could face costs from misplaced optimism. Even if AI expectations are met, these entities may still incur expenses. Nageswaran intends to outline five specific risks regarding this issue. He plans to suggest potential government actions to mitigate these risks in future discussions.

17 Oct 2026 4:21 pm
Congress gets green light for Ramlila rally: Dates, details inside

Delhi Police has issued a No Objection Certificate to the Congress party for a rally at Ramlila Maidan. The ground will be available for booking from October 25 to November 3, as confirmed by DCP Central Rohit Rajbir Singh. Congress plans to submit this certificate to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to proceed with preparations.

17 Oct 2026 4:16 pm
'Right to protest has become a crime': Sibal slams govt

Kapil Sibal has raised alarms regarding the Modi government's recent decision to denotify Jantar Mantar as a site for protests. He claims that the right to protest is under siege and challenges the suitability of alternatives like Ramlila Maidan. Sibal remarked that earlier demonstrations were generally peaceful and condemned the government's tactics against protesters, suggesting they undermine the electoral system.

17 Oct 2026 4:16 pm