Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov criticised US tariff threats against India and China, emphasizing their resilience as ancient civilizations. He noted these nations are seeking new markets and energy sources due to American pressure. Despite tensions and tariff hikes, India and the US are in trade talks, while India and China assert their independence, backed by Moscow.

The Election Commission (EC) refuted Rahul Gandhi's claims regarding voter deletion irregularities in Aland, stating that detailed information was already provided to the Karnataka CID two years prior. The EC clarified that no online voter deletion is possible by the public. In Maharashtra's Rajoura constituency, thousands of invalid voter applications were rejected after scrutiny, prompting a criminal investigation.

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at 20 locations across multiple states in connection with the Rs 3,500 crore liquor 'scam' in Andhra Pradesh, involving allegations against former CM Jagan Mohan Reddy. The searches targeted companies and individuals suspected of facilitating kickbacks through fraudulent invoices.

The CBI has filed a chargesheet against Anil Ambani, Rana Kapoor, and Kapoor's family for fraudulent loan transactions causing a Rs 2,797 crore loss to Yes Bank. Kapoor directed Yes Bank to invest in ADA Group companies despite warnings, and funds were allegedly siphoned out.

Axiom Space has launched a global consortium, the Axiom Space University Alliance, inviting Indian universities and research organizations to collaborate on microgravity science and innovation in low-Earth orbit. This initiative aims to foster a global research ecosystem, enabling knowledge sharing and exploration of experiments in various fields, including life sciences and advanced materials, as space activities transition to commercial operations.

A public disagreement has surfaced within the National Conference as Education Minister Sakina Itoo criticized MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi for his accusations against Omar Abdullah's government regarding efforts to restore statehood and Article 370. Itoo challenged Mehdi's own actions in Parliament, while Mehdi defended his record, citing meetings with Amit Shah and raising various issues.

India's net direct tax collections surged by 9.18% to exceed Rs 10.82 lakh crore, propelled by increased corporate advance tax payments. However, refunds witnessed a 24% decline to Rs 1.61 lakh crore. The government aims for Rs 25.20 lakh crore in direct tax collection for FY26, marking a 12.7% increase.

US mortgage rates witnessed a decline. The average rate on a 30-year mortgage reached 6.26%. This is the lowest since early October. Freddie Mac reported this news on Thursday. The Federal Reserve's rate cut of 2025 contributed to this drop. Refinancing activity saw a surge. Adjustable-rate mortgages also gained popularity. This indicates a gradual decrease in borrowing costs for consumers.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized fiscal discipline for economic growth, urging states to prioritize expenditure quality and prudent borrowing. At the 35th Conference of State Finance Secretaries, discussions centered on fiscal consolidation, cash management, and market borrowings. The meeting promoted coordination between states and the RBI for initiatives in currency management and financial inclusion.

Procter & Gamble, Emami, and Hindustan Unilever Limited are reducing prices on various products. This decision follows the Goods and Services Tax rate cuts. Consumers can expect lower prices on soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, coffee, and diapers. The new prices will be effective from September 22.