The Economic Times

Gold rate, silver price were up on Friday but both precious metals were jolted by weekly losses.

National highway projects awarded experienced a 62.9% increase in distance during the April-September period. Electronic toll collection transactions also rose significantly, indicating increased digital use. Air cargo movement increased by 12%, and foreign tourist arrivals grew as well. The telecommunications sector expanded, adding over 29,000 kilometers of optical fiber cable. Overall, performance indicators across multiple infrastructure sectors have shown positive trends in FY27.

Delhi Traffic Police has issued a traffic advisory for Durga Puja celebrations in Chittaranjan Park (CR Park) and Greater Kailash-II from October 16 to 20, 2026. Traffic restrictions will remain in force daily from 4 pm to midnight. Commuters and devotees have been advised to use the Delhi Metro, avoid affected roads, refrain from unauthorised parking and allow extra travel time.

On October 17, regions across India will brace for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. While Delhi can expect partly cloudy skies and a rise in temperatures post-rain, Himachal Pradesh might enjoy glimpses of sunshine interspersed with isolated afternoon showers. Meanwhile, Haryana is forecasted to have predominantly sunny weather but may see thunderstorms develop intermittently.

National Sports Federation (NSF) will now be entitled to financial support of up to 50 crore to organise international events. Previously, NSFs were allotted up to Rs two crore for the same. The revised scheme could provide assistance up to Rs 50 crore to conduct the National Games. The funds would go towards sports equipment, Timing, Scoring and Result (TSR) services, remuneration to technical officials and technical conduct.

The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha also stressed that rutality by Home Minister Amit Shah's Delhi Police will not go unchecked and the Congress will pursue every legal route against the officers responsible.

Malibu fire: The fast-spreading Bryson Fire in Malibu, California, prompted the evacuation of 38 youths from a juvenile detention facility near the blaze. The youths were safely transferred to Barry J. Nidorf Juvenile Hall in Sylmar as strong winds increased wildfire risks across California. Here's what officials said about the evacuation and where the youths were taken.

Since Russia's invasion, Ukraine has heavily depended on Elon Musk's Starlink for its military communication needs. However, recent limitations on military connectivity have sparked worries regarding this reliance on private corporations. The EU meanwhile is creating IRIS, a satellite network aimed at ensuring secure communications for governmental and military use by 2029, lessening dependence on providers like Starlink.

A recent public hearing revealed significant issues with the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Witnesses from multiple states presented cases of wrongful voter deletions, despite having valid documentation. Testimonies included individuals with long-standing residency and voting records facing challenges in enrollment. An independent commission recommended community engagement to improve voter roll accuracy before finalization. Over 60% of individuals flagged for discrepancies have

Reacting to a viral video clip of Bhushan speaking about egime change at a press conference, Gupta said they stand exposed and alleged that this is the rue face of the Congress, AAP and CJP.

What happened to Tyler Ulrich? Oklahoma's Southern Nazarene University is mourning football player Tyler Ulrich, who died five days after suffering a serious head injury during a college football game. His coach called the 21-year-old Southern Nazarene University student a 'man of god' and an ultimate example of quiet strength, loyal, worker, joyous.

Indias foreign exchange reserves declined by nearly $60 billion in six weeks to $726.027 billion as of October 9, from a record high of $785.706 billion on September 4. The fall was largely attributed to the Reserve Bank of Indias intervention to support the rupee amid rising crude oil prices, higher US yields and sustained foreign investor outflows. Foreign currency assets and gold reserves also recorded significant declines during the reporting week.

A woman who paid Rs 5,970 to dry-clean 18 items, including a pashmina shawl and pheran, received the garments in a damaged condition, prompting her to approach the consumer commission. The Srinagar district consumer commission has now directed the dry cleaner to pay Rs 57,000, including Rs 47,000 for the damaged garments and Rs 10,000 as compensation, along with Rs 2,000 in litigation costs, taking the total payout to Rs 59,000.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently met with JBIC Governor Kazuhiko Amakawa to discuss collaboration. They focused on clean energy, electric mobility, and resilient supply chains, among other sectors. Additionally, discussions with Bhutan's Finance Minister explored bilateral economic cooperation and energy collaboration. Sitharaman emphasized India's ongoing support for Bhutan's developmental goals and engaged on currency payment settlements. Both meetings highlighted commitment to str

Indian businesses are encouraged to utilise free trade agreements and the export promotion mission for expansion. Recent data shows that Indias merchandise exports have increased significantly over the past year. Services exports show a small decline yet cumulative growth remains positive compared to last year. Ongoing efforts aim to strengthen Indias overall export capabilities and international partnerships.

India is pursuing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union to increase exports. Indian Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar stated that bilateral trade is projected to reach USD 100 billion by 2030. The current trade turnover is reported at USD 38 billion for the first half of this year. Efforts are underway to diversify India's export basket and improve market access in Russia.

US midterm election 2026: American voter sentiment is shifting, with many expressing frustration over President Trump's approach to significant domestic and international challenges. Polling data highlights a push for transformative leadership within the US as midterm elections draw near. The Democratic Party appears to be gaining enthusiasm, while Republicans grapple with unfavourable perceptions.

Delhi Police has issued a Rs 15.7-crore tender for the installation of CCTV cameras with facial recognition capabilities. The tender, part of a modernization initiative, specifies 338 cameras for Central and New Delhi. Concerns have been raised regarding the procurement process and surveillance safeguards. Installation is expected to commence in December 2026 or January 2027.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back in the Indian cricket squad for the fifth T20I against the West Indies, stepping in for the injured Arshdeep Singh. With the series locked at 2-2, this game holds significant stakes, and Bhuvneshwar's return after nearly four years from the international scene has sparked excitement among fans who hope to see his impactful performance.

The Supreme Court is reviewing the NDMC's decision to close Central Park amid protest plans by the Cockroach Janta Party. Traders are concerned about substantial potential losses to their businesses worth Rs 200 crore daily. The court acknowledged the connection between the right to protest, sale of goods, and maintaining law and order. Justice Bagchi indicated the possibility of compensation if the order is deemed excessive.

Indias foreign exchange reserves fell by $8.578 billion to $726.027 billion in the week ended October 9, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The decline followed a $12.952 billion drop in the previous week. Foreign currency assets and gold reserves recorded significant declines, while special drawing rights and Indias reserve position with the IMF also fell.

Poll officials in Delhi are currently re-verifying more than 47 lakh voters who were removed from electoral rolls. This process aims to ensure that no eligible voters are left out before the final lists are published. Voters can fill up Form 6 to be included in the updated lists due by December 4. The Chief Electoral Officer emphasized resolving discrepancies in voters' details and improving accuracy in the rolls.

Abhijeet Dipke detention news: Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), was placed under preventive detention by Delhi Police on Friday ahead of the partys proposed Lehra Do Tiranga protest at Central Park in Connaught Place. Police cited restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), while the proposed rally had not received permission from the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).

Ladakhs infrastructure plan: 5 projects worth 3,350 cr to boost air connectivity, roads, tourism

Houthi attacks on Riyadh airport and Saudi Aramcos headquarters have exposed vulnerabilities in Saudi Arabias air defences, threatening its ambitions to attract foreign investment and diversify its economy. Experts cited by Reuters point to Iran-backed weapons development, increasingly self-sufficient Houthi production capabilities, depleted US interceptor stocks and the groups growing combat experience.

Bengaluru traffic police have announced no-parking zones, designated parking and stadium entry arrangements for the India-West Indies T20 match at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on October 17. Parking restrictions will cover several roads around the venue, while St Josephs Indian High School will provide designated parking from 11 am to 9 pm.

Jairam Ramesh responded to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, defending the opposition's role in democracy. Singh accused the Congress of inciting political unrest through youth-led protests against the Election Commission. Ramesh referenced former President Pranab Mukherjee's belief that the opposition's duty is to oppose, expose, and depose. The ongoing protests concern electoral reforms and the actions of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

MoSPI is conducting new surveys, including one on cooperatives, to improve India's economic data, Secretary Saurabh Garg said. He expressed confidence in the country's growth trajectory after GDP expanded 7.8% in the first quarter, while highlighting inflation concerns, gaps in measuring household work and care activities, and methodological improvements to national accounts.

Astronomers have unveiled an astonishing white dwarf star, WD J1330+6435, that shines with a distinctive green hue. Situated roughly 280 light-years away in the constellation of Draco, its unique coloration stems from sodium that captures multiple light wavelengths due to elevated density. Additionally, a second white dwarf, WD J1011+2845, displaying a rare salmon-pink tint from carbon, illustrates the intriguing diversity and atmospheric intricacies of these celestial bodies.

Bengaluru weather is likely to remain rainy on October 16 and 17, with the IMD forecasting moderate rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph across Bengaluru Urban and Rural districts on Friday. Heavy rain is expected at some places in and around Bengaluru on Saturday, as wet conditions continue across South Interior Karnataka.

BJP president Nitin Nabin accused the opposition of trying to destabilise the country by colluding with foreign powers. Nabin said the use of terms such as egime change clearly exposes the opposition's agenda. He said that power in a democracy is established through the mandate of the people. Opposition leader Prashant Bhushan said the government contends to misrepresent their intentions to challenge the leadership.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Modi for delaying the prorogation of Parliament's Monsoon Session. He emphasized the necessity of holding an all-party meeting to discuss new delimitation proposals. Kharge highlighted previous attempts to push Constitutional Amendment Bills without adequate discussion, which had failed to gain majority support. He reiterated the importance of allowing ample deliberation among all political parties and stakeholders.

Swiggy Limited has completed the sale of its shareholding in Lynks Logistics Limited to Trustroot Internet Private Limited. The transaction was executed through its subsidiary, Swiggy Networks Limited, and concluded on October 15, 2026. This sale follows previous communication from Swiggy on September 7, 2026, about the intended transaction. Consequently, Lynks Logistics is no longer a subsidiary of either Swiggy Networks or Swiggy Limited.

Elon Musks flying Tesla Roadster unveiling has sparked a meme fest online, with users joking about an Indian Mahindra Thar Roadster, roasting on public roads and drawing comparisons with Top Gun and Back to the Future. Here are 14 memes capturing the internets funniest reactions to the futuristic car stunt.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi questioned the government over US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's proposed meeting with Indian officials in Mumbai next week, alleging confusion within the External Affairs Ministry. The Congress has also questioned why US envoy Sergio Gor announced External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's expected participation in the meeting.

A total of 148 of the 150 construction works in the Ram temple complex in Ayodhya have been completed.The remaining work focuses on the outer enclosure, which was delayed due to rain. The temple's lighting is targeted for completion by November 15 in preparation for Diwali. Additionally, the committee is reviewing financial matters and assessing contractor performance.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been added to India's squad for the final T20I against the West Indies. This decision comes after Arshdeep Singh suffered a shoulder injury during the fourth T20I match. The final match is crucial as the series is currently tied at 2-2. A decision regarding Arshdeep's participation will be made before the game based on his recovery.

India aims to become a leader in quantum technology among Global South countries. The Centre is preparing for NM-ICPS 2.0, building on the first phase ending December 2027. Efforts include developing quantum-resilient encryption techniques for critical database systems. Research and development spending has increased significantly, with a target of reaching 2% of GDP by 2035. The government is focusing on partnerships with industries to further support technological advancements.

On Friday, a powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck near Vilyuchinsk in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre confirmed the intensity, and thankfully, no tsunami warning was issued. However, Japan mistakenly released a startling warning for a 9.9 magnitude quake shortly after, despite history showing only five quakes of magnitude 9 or higher have been documented. Notably, a magnitude 10 quake is deemed impossible based on current geological understanding

Mohammed bin Salman is currently grappling with increasing Houthi attacks that threaten Saudi infrastructure and international stability. The Crown Prince's appeals for support from the United States have not succeeded in securing intervention. Increased tensions have led to major airlines suspending flights to Saudi Arabia, impacting travel plans. Efforts to forge alliances with Pakistan and Turkey have yielded limited results in countering the Houthi threat.

DP World is ready to increase its investment in India between USD 3 billion and USD 5 billion in the coming years. The company urges for faster infrastructure development and quicker project approvals to unlock trade potential. Despite challenges, Narayan believes that India remains attractive due to its growing economic scale. Enhanced logistics capacity is critical for supporting India's manufacturing and export growth.

Economist Nouriel Roubini, known as Dr Doom for predicting the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, sees India emerging as a major growth story over the coming decades. He believes easing US tariffs, deeper trade ties, friendshoring and continued reforms could strengthen India's economic prospects. However, India must accelerate growth towards 9% to create enough jobs for its young workforce as artificial intelligence reshapes employment and global manufacturers diversify beyond China.

Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj conferred the status of a martyr of the Sikh community to Parvinder Singh Jhota. The development came amid the religious leader's visit to Mansa to meet the bereaved family and express their condolences. Gargajj offered an 'ardas' (Sikh prayer) in memory of Jhota. The leader said young people raising their voices against drugs were being killed.

A 72-year-old man who booked a Rs 333 retiring room at Chittorgarh railway station found an Indian toilet instead of the western toilet listed on the IRCTC portal. After returning the keys without using the room and failing to get a refund, he approached the consumer commission, which enhanced compensation from Rs 3,000 to Rs 20,000.

Sanjay Raut expressed his willingness to apologize to the Supreme Court for any inappropriate comments he may have made, emphasizing that respect for the judiciary has always been paramount to him and his party. His remarks were in response to ongoing legal disputes involving electoral rolls and his party's identity, highlighting concerns over the lengthy process regarding the Shiv Sena name and symbol.

Police filed a case against R Sreelekha after her controversial remarks about Rahul Gandhi at a BJP event. Sreelekha criticized Gandhi's conduct and compared it to drug influence, which sparked backlash from Congress leaders. A complaint was lodged by Congress leader K S Sabarinadhan, prompting police action in Kollam district. They plan to review video evidence from the event as part of the investigation.