The Economic Times

K T Rama Rao raised concerns regarding the proposed sale of IDBI Bank to Fairfax Financial Holdings. He highlighted potential undervaluation and transparency issues in the bidding process. Rao questioned the assessment of the bank's prime real estate assets in Hyderabad. Concerns from IDBI Bank employees about the sale have reportedly not been addressed by the Union Government.

Ratnadeep Retail has received Sebi approval to launch an IPO comprising a fresh issue of up to Rs 400 crore and an offer for sale of 1.49 crore shares. The Hyderabad-based retailer plans to use part of the proceeds to repay borrowings and expand its store network across India.

S Jaishankar met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to discuss diplomatic relations between India and Canada. They agreed that Prime Minister Modi's visit in December will strengthen their ties further. Previous tensions arose after allegations against India regarding a separatist's killing earlier this year. Relations have improved since Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's election and visit to India.

Delhi Police have arrested Shivam, a member of the Hashim Baba gang, for a murder that occurred recently. A 30-year-old man was fatally stabbed in northeast Delhi on October 24 and later died at a hospital. In a separate incident, Seema Rishi was killed while trying to protect her son from attackers on October 15. The woman's husband described how they were attacked during a confrontation.

Auqib Nabi has been added to India's ODI squad for the first three matches against New Zealand. This change comes after Prasidh Krishna was ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury. The ODI series is scheduled to begin on November 4, 2026, at Eden Park in Auckland. India will also have several key players in their updated lineup for the matches.

Chennai Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the suspension of the deputy jail superintendent due to security failures. This decision follows a major jailbreak incident in Theni district, where 17 prisoners escaped. The inmates staged a fake medical emergency and overpowered prison guards before their recapture. Stringent action against prison personnel highlights the government's response to security lapses.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has authorized the hiring of 1,066 contractual staff to enhance efforts against mosquito-borne diseases, alongside approving a Rs 923.6-crore project for 70 mechanical road-sweeping machines. This recruitment targets roles crucial for monitoring and controlling diseases, while the sweeping machines aim to reduce pollution and improve road cleanliness.

Operations to recover the bodies of six crash victims resumed in Uttarakhand after being halted due to darkness and difficult terrain. The privately operated helicopter crashed in Joshimath, killing all occupants, including pilgrims and the pilot. Recovery efforts face challenges from the area's geography and wildlife presence, complicating access. Officials confirmed that an investigation into the crash's cause is underway by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.

AIIMS Gorakhpur Executive Director Major General (retd) Vibha Dutta was shifted to a private hospital for cardiac evaluation after developing health complications. The development comes as the institute said nearly 70% of the work to operationalise its Cath Lab has been completed, with the facility expected to become functional by December.

Diwali 2026 is set to begin with Dhanteras on November 6 and will culminate with Bhai Dooj on November 11. This five-day celebration is filled with rituals and ceremonies that pay tribute to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. Families illuminate their homes and share sweets and gifts on the main day, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. Throughout this festive period, special prayers are offered for joy and prosperity.

Rohit Sharma could make a return as captain of Mumbai Indians for IPL 2027. Hardik Pandya is expected to leave after a disappointing 2026 season. The franchise is currently evaluating its roster before the upcoming mini-auction in December. New coaching appointments have fueled speculation about Rohit's leadership return.

As India prepares to celebrate Diwali next week, investors will welcome Samvat 2083 after a challenging year for equities.SBI Securities expects a gradual recovery after two years of consolidation. The primary catalyst for this recovery, according to the brokerage, will be a pullback in crude oil prices below $90 per barrel.

The Indian Space Research Organisation successfully placed the NVS-03 satellite into orbit on Saturday. ISRO implemented a new technique involving three open pyro valves to enhance mission reliability. This launch aims to bolster India's navigation satellite system, restoring operational capabilities. The organisation plans to launch additional satellites in the upcoming months to expand this network.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. These projects are designed to enhance infrastructure and boost tourism in the region. Significant improvements include a sewage and water treatment plant, and the development of eco-trails. Floral tributes were also paid to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity.

Brent crude rose 13.6% in October to settle at a six-month high of $117.64 a barrel, as fears of fresh US strikes on Iran and threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz fuelled supply concerns. Analysts warn of further volatility, with Goldman Sachs flagging a possible rise to $120.

LIC Housing Finance experienced a 12% year-on-year increase in consolidated net profit, reaching

New India Assurance Company has revealed a concerning net loss of

In a remarkable financial performance, Bank of Baroda reported a staggering 36% rise in net profit for the second quarter, reaching

Reliance Retail Ventures reported a significant drop in net profit, down 24.5% year-on-year to

Jio Platforms has unveiled an impressive 14% net profit growth to

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a trilateral meeting with Canadian and Australian counterparts in Atlanta. They discussed the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation Partnership focused on green energy and supply chains. Jaishankar emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to global challenges and highlighted issues impacting the Global South. He noted the adverse effects of military actions on civilian shipping and emphasized market access issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity. This tribute occurred on Patel's birth anniversary, which is celebrated as National Unity Day. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also honored Patel, highlighting his contributions to modern India and national unity. Both leaders emphasized Patel's dedication to the nation's welfare and various movements, including those for farmers' rights.

Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is celebrated on October 31 to commemorate the birth of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Various nationwide activities, including the Run for Unity and the Unity Pledge, foster participation among citizens. Schools and colleges engage students with competitions to illuminate Patel's legacy.

A glacial lake outburst flood has been reported at Shintaphu Lake in Bhutan, threatening local areas. Following the flood report, water levels are expected to rise in Alipurduar and Dhubri districts. Authorities have been advised to monitor the situation closely and take necessary precautions. Assam's Chief Minister has assured that official teams are on standby for response efforts. Residents are urged to stay alert and follow updates from local officials.

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer's office has issued warnings to District Election Officers regarding errors in electoral rolls. DEOs must monitor voter application processing and ensure no applications remain pending unnecessarily. Regular reviews of subordinate officials and their tasks are mandatory to maintain accountability. Complaints related to electoral rolls must be addressed promptly and satisfactorily, ensuring quality disposal.

India has called for genuine partnerships and equal treatment of human rights at the United Nations General Assembly. First Secretary Bhavika Mangalanandan highlighted the importance of international cooperation while opposing politicisation of human rights. Mangalanandan emphasized the need for balanced attention to all categories of rights, including economic and social rights. She also urged for adequate funding and effective coordination between Geneva and New York.

Google is in early talks with the Pentagon regarding involvement in the Golden Dome missile defense program. The initiative aims to secure critical data for military software and infrastructure. Multiple companies, including Aalyria Technologies, are likely to collaborate in this effort. Command-and-control software will connect various weapon systems and defense technologies across the military. Googles previous hesitations with defense work seem to be changing as it pursues new agreements.

The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented a ban on construction activities in Delhi-NCR from November 5 to 20. This measure aims to combat the worsening air quality in the region during this period. Additionally, government and private offices in Delhi and surrounding areas should allow up to 50% of their employees to work from home.

UK Health Minister James Frith addressed the Westminster Diwali gathering in London, highlighting the need for healthcare innovation adoption. He noted that India excels in digital innovation, while Britain leads in research and life sciences. The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement has created opportunities for deeper cooperation. Indian High Commissioner P Kumaran emphasized India's manufacturing capabilities and ambition for commercial innovation.

European stock markets slid as a global selloff in technology rattled investors, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index closing in negative territory. Concerns over soaring AI infrastructure costs loomed large. However, to add a silver lining, euro zone growth exceeded forecasts amid climbing inflation and borrowing costs, while firms such as Universal Music Group and Sanofi flaunted impressive earnings in these challenging times.

As we approach the US midterm elections next week, stock investors are bracing for the impact of significant corporate earnings reports. The market is already under pressure due to unsatisfactory AI earnings from leading firms, sparking worries about regulatory challenges. Investor focus will be on earnings from major players like Apple and AMD, with the upcoming jobs report additionally providing insights into the strength of the US economy.

Gold prices have plummeted to a year-long low, driven by anxiety over AI expenditure trends and declining tech shares. Other precious metals such as silver, platinum, and palladium have similarly seen their values drop sharply. Market experts forecast that precious metals may rebound, particularly if gold stays under $4,000. A decline in demand for silver's industrial and jewelry uses further complicates its market outlook, leaving a persistent downtrend expected.

Four officials from the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration have been suspended for conducting unauthorized raids. The Chief Minister approved this action following allegations regarding the officials' misconduct. A departmental inquiry is also being initiated against 21 other officials involved in the matter. This inquiry will investigate the actions of officials from the Thane and Pune divisions. Further action will be determined based on the findings of this investigation.

ISRO's NVS-03 launch: Third indigenous atomic clock now in orbit

Kripa Alva was expelled from the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee for six years due to her involvement in a sting operation. The expulsion caused embarrassment for the Congress party due to negative media reactions. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah linked her to a controversial video and sought a court injunction against its distribution. Bengaluru police found allegations of sexual abuse in the video to be a fabricated narrative.

A helicopter crash in Uttarakhand resulted in the deaths of six individuals, five of whom were from Karnataka. Congress MLA H D Ranganath reported that the victims were on a private pilgrimage tour when the accident occurred. Adverse weather conditions and snowfall contributed to the crash that took place near Dehradun. The Karnataka government is coordinating with Uttarakhand authorities to repatriate the deceased.

A US appeals court dismissed the Trump administration's effort to prevent California from counting mail ballots. This decision involved over 20,000 voters alleged to be noncitizens. The court's ruling came after a federal judge stated that blocking these ballots could harm lawfully registered voters. The Justice Department's lawsuit aimed to segregate ballots until voter citizenship was verified. Evidence shows that noncitizen voting is extremely rare despite the administration's claims.

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating potential voter confusion related to Alaska's Senate race. A lawsuit aims to isolate ballots ranking Dan J. Sullivan to ensure electoral integrity. Meanwhile, federal authorities are probing the involvement of candidates Mary Peltola and Dan J. Sullivan. The situation escalated as President Trump called for prosecution during a rally. Alaska's elections officials are responding to the investigation amid ongoing tensions and legal challenges.

The government has extended the customs duty exemption on cotton imports by two months till December 31, 2026, to improve supplies and ease input costs for the domestic textile and apparel industry, PTI reported on Saturday.The extension follows the five-month exemption announced in May, which was due to expire on October 31.The move is expected to improve cotton availability in the domestic market and provide relief to textile manufacturers, particularly small and medium enterprises.The Finance

NVS-03 Eye In The Sky enters orbit: ISRO Chief announces GSLV-F18 mission success

France plans to deploy 70,000 police officers in response to anticipated nationwide protests on Saturday. These demonstrations are fueled by public dissatisfaction with living costs and President Emmanuel Macron's government. Following recent unrest involving riots and looting, authorities aim to ensure public safety during the protests. The situation has also impacted the economy, with significant losses reported among retailers.

A proposed class action against McDonald's regarding the McRib sandwich was allowed by a US federal judge. The judge found that the claims about misleading ingredient representation needed further examination. Consumers allege they were led to believe the sandwich contained expensive rib meat rather than lower-grade pork. McDonald's maintains that it has been transparent about its ingredients and denies the allegations.

Candidates in the US midterm elections are appealing to Indian-American voters through food and temple events. The engagement includes cooking dosas by candidates in Texas and celebrating Diwali at temples. Indian-American voters hold significant power in battleground states where every vote counts. These interactions aim to build connections and counter past divisive rhetoric. As a result, candidates are focusing on cultural outreach to strengthen their support.

Delhi Weather Today: On Saturday, October 31, varying weather conditions are anticipated across India's major cities. Delhi, Noida, and Gurgaon will enjoy partly cloudy skies and pleasant temperatures following recent rains. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar may experience cloudy conditions along with intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms due to Cyclone Arnab. In Andhra Pradesh, prepare for thunderstorms, whereas Tamil Nadu is likely to remain mostly dry.

S Jaishankar highlighted the challenges posed by disruptions in global oil supplies during the G20 meeting. He pointed out that the current energy crisis results from unpredictability and significant disruptions. Jaishankar emphasized the need for the G20 to ensure that energy markets remain open and predictable. He also mentioned India's efforts in critical minerals and the necessity for reliable energy supplies.

A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order against the Justice Department regarding ballot processing threats. This ruling followed a lawsuit by labor unions and civil rights groups. The judge prohibited any intimidation or coercion of election officials regarding registered voters' ballots. Additionally, the Justice Department was barred from making criminal prosecution threats to election officials.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has a busy schedule during the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Atlanta. He is expected to engage in discussions with multiple foreign ministers on trade, defense, and energy. Meetings with Canada and Brazil are crucial for redefining relationships and securing resources. Jaishankar will also address India's partnerships with European and East Asian nations.

Brazil's Ambassador to India highlighted growing trade relations, expecting bilateral trade to reach USD 20 billion soon. The partnership encompasses critical sectors such as defence, energy, and pharmaceuticals, promoting economic engagement. Both nations aim to deepen cultural ties, celebrating the centenary of musician Antonio Carlos Jobim in 2027. Recent political visits strengthened commitments toward technological and economic cooperation in multilateral forums.