The Times of India News

India has identified nearly 300 products in engineering, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and chemicals with significant export potential to Russia, aiming to boost bilateral trade. Despite a large trade deficit, India's current exports in these key sectors are considerably lower than Russia's import demand, presenting a substantial opportunity for growth.

Shamanuru Shivashankarappa, a seasoned politician and revered six-time MLA, has sadly passed away at the age of 95 after battling age-related ailments. His commitment to the upliftment of education and community service marked his illustrious career. His departure is a significant loss for Karnataka's political landscape and the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community, prompting leaders from all sides to express their condolences.

Indian family businesses are experiencing robust expansion, with nearly half reporting revenues between USD 1 billion and USD 30 billion. Driven by increased capital access, generational leadership shifts, and technology adoption, these enterprises are poised for significant growth. A strong focus on ESG and aggressive global expansion plans further underscore their dynamic trajectory.

Telecom regulator Trai is clashing with the Department of Telecom over satellite spectrum charges. Trai objects to DoT's proposal for lower charges for state-owned BSNL, deeming it discriminatory to new entrants. Trai argues that preferential treatment for BSNL, even for strategic purposes, is unfair given evolving market dynamics and the need for a level playing field.

This bill marks Indias strongest legislative move yet to protect personal time in an always-connected digital work culture.

Banks must now link loans for micro, small, and medium enterprises to an external benchmark. This move aims to improve monetary policy transmission. The Reserve Bank of India has also reduced the reset period for these loans. Quality control measures are being phased in with specific exemptions for MSMEs.

A horrific shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach has claimed at least 12 lives, with authorities labeling it a terrorist incident. Police responded to the developing situation, urging the public to avoid the area. The attack occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, prompting condemnation and calls to combat antisemitism.

Do women end up paying hidden taxes just to survive? From the 'pink tax' to 'safety tax' and more, where women pay more for gendered products and essential safety measures. Does simply existing as a woman become financially and emotionally more expensive, a burden society continues to overlook but hard to escape.

Gold and silver are poised for further gains as global inflation data and economic indicators are closely watched. Analysts anticipate continued momentum driven by central bank policy expectations and geopolitical factors. Domestic factors like rupee depreciation are also boosting gold's appeal for Indian investors, while strong industrial demand supports silver.

The AAP leader's comments come a day after CM Gupta alleged that while Bharatiya Janata Party leaders are trying to fight pollution by staying in Delhi, Kejriwal simply abandons Delhi by taking a Vipassana every six months.

India's gems and jewellery exports surged nearly 20% to $2.5 billion in November, driven by strong shipments of cut and polished diamonds, studded gold jewellery, and silver items. While cumulative exports remain steady, this monthly uptick signals a market stabilization and picking up demand in key destinations like Hong Kong and the Middle East, offering optimism for future growth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah congratulated Nitin Nabin on his appointment as BJP National Working President. Nabin, a five-time MLA and former Bihar minister, is lauded for his organizational experience and dedication. His political journey began in student politics, building a strong base before entering electoral politics and focusing on urban development.

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has urged the Centre to implement wide-ranging reforms in the Union Budget 2026-27 to boost India's investment-led growth. Key recommendations include increased capital expenditure, a new National Infrastructure Pipeline, and tax incentives to encourage private and foreign investment.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge said that he skipped his son's operation to protest alleged vote chori and Special Intensive Revision, calling it crucial to save 140 crore people. He labelled BJP gaddars and dramebaaz, asserting only Congress ideology can protect the Constitution from being destroyed by the BJP's agenda. Rahul Gandhi was lauded for leading the fight.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has appointed Bihar minister Nitin Nabin as its national working president, a significant organizational shift. Nabin, a four-time MLA from Patna's Bankipur constituency, brings extensive grassroots experience and a strong organizational background to the party's national leadership.

Navi Mumbai International Airport is exploring the addition of a third runway. CIDCO has initiated a techno-commercial feasibility study to assess its viability, considering future air traffic growth and operational needs.

Dwyane Wade, reflecting on LeBron James' 23rd NBA season, expresses admiration and a fan's perspective on an impending era's end. He acknowledges James' elite performance, even as fans call for retirement, and cherishes their shared championship history. Wade also humorously recalls the 'Big Three' introduction, highlighting the immense pressure and difficulty of winning.

India has firmly rejected Bangladesh's interim government's assertions, stating New Delhi consistently supports free, fair, and inclusive elections in the neighboring country. India denied allowing its territory to be used for activities hostile to Bangladesh's interests and called on Dhaka to ensure internal law and order for peaceful elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have strongly condemned the terrorist attack at Sydney's Bondi Beach, which claimed 11 lives and injured 16 others. The attack occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, and India has expressed solidarity with Australia, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.

Nitin Nabin has been appointed as the new national working president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, succeeding JP Nadda. A PWD minister in Bihar and MLA from Patna's Bankipur constituency, Nabin's political journey began in student politics with the ABVP. He has established himself as a key urban and infrastructure leader since entering electoral politics in the late 2000s.

India's economy is set for a significant boom, potentially reaching $16 trillion by 2042, according to a new study. This expansion, driven by a stronger wealth effect, will boost consumption and investment. Per capita income is projected to quadruple, fueling growth in sectors like financial services, automobiles, and real estate, promising substantial long-term wealth creation.

A private member's bill proposing the right to disconnect has reignited discussions on work-life boundaries in India. While unlikely to become law, the bill highlights a cultural shift towards employee well-being, with several companies already implementing flexible policies and acknowledging the need to move beyond an 'always-on' work culture.

West Bengal governor CV Ananda Bose has called the chaos at Lionel Messi's event a shame for Kolkata and football lovers. He demanded strict accountability, including a judicial inquiry and arrests of organizers, emphasizing the need for a standard operating procedure for managing large congregations to prevent public suffering during commercialized events.

Delhi-NCR's air quality has plunged to 'severe plus', prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to halt all outdoor sports activities. This directive, aimed at protecting children's health, comes as the strictest Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is enforced. Construction bans and truck entry restrictions are also in effect, with schools adopting hybrid learning.

Millions of Indian homes unknowingly waste electricity through 'phantom loads' and inefficient appliances, inflating bills and carbon emissions. From unplugged chargers to old refrigerators, these silent drains cost thousands annually. National Energy Conservation Day highlights the urgent need for awareness and simple, low-cost fixes to curb this widespread, invisible wastage.

India's top 10 most-valued companies experienced a significant market capitalization drop of Rs 79,129.21 crore last week, with Bajaj Finance and ICICI Bank facing the steepest declines. This broad market weakness saw eight of the top ten firms lose value, while only Reliance Industries and Larsen & Toubro registered gains.

PIB has debunked viral claims of a large-scale Chinese military build-up near Arunachal Pradesh. The government's fact-checking agency clarified that the circulated video depicts a routine exercise by the PLA's 78th Group Army, unrelated to the Indian border. Citizens are urged to verify information from official sources.

India's domestic copper manufacturing faces severe damage from cheap imports under free trade agreements, according to the Indian Primary Copper Producers Association. The industry body urges the government to implement safeguard duties and quantitative restrictions to protect investments and prevent the erosion of the smelting and downstream manufacturing base.

Thiruparankundram, a hill in Tamil Nadu with a history of religious coexistence, is now a flashpoint for political and legal battles. A dispute over lighting a sacred lamp during the Karthigai deepam festival has escalated, pitting the DMK against the BJP and raising questions about judicial authority and communal harmony.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Delhi unit President Saurabh Bharadwaj on Sunday criticised Chief Minister Rekha Gupta over the worsening air quality in the national capital, stating that she is unaware of the Air Quality Index (AQI) and its parameters, adding that she must leave the pollution problem for the experts to deal with.

Indian markets navigated macroeconomic pressures and global uncertainties this week. A weakening rupee was partially offset by a US Federal Reserve rate cut and optimism around India-US trade talks. While foreign investors sold equities, domestic buying provided support. Investors will watch trade developments and key economic data for direction.

Goa authorities are aggressively inspecting and sealing nightclubs for safety and licensing violations following a deadly fire. Teams are checking all establishments, with two already shut down for lacking fire safety and structural integrity. The crackdown aims to prevent further tragedies during the festive season, with liquor sales now restricted after 11 pm.

Wall Street strategists are advising a shift away from dominant tech giants towards sectors like healthcare, industrials, and energy for 2026. Concerns over high valuations and AI spending are prompting investors to explore undervalued cyclical stocks, small caps, and economically sensitive areas, signaling a potential broadening of market leadership.

India has intensified its aid to Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah, deploying an Engineer Task Force to restore critical infrastructure and providing extensive medical support. The Indian Army is working with Sri Lankan counterparts to rebuild damaged bridges, while Operation Sagar Bandhu delivers essential medicines and humanitarian assistance, underscoring India's commitment to its neighbor's recovery.

The BJP has strongly criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following chaos at Salt Lake Stadium during Lionel Messi's visit. Leaders accused the state government of gross mismanagement, demanding accountability and punishment for those responsible. The incident saw fans protesting, leading to vandalism and a police baton charge, with many ticket holders unable to see the football star.

In a captivating viral video, an Indian vlogger shared his experience in Australia, where he stumbled upon a touching handwritten note on a car after a trivial parking accident. This simple yet profound act, complete with contact information for potential damage claims, stood in stark contrast to the reactions often seen in India.

Australia has welcomed the first climate migrants from Tuvalu, a Pacific nation facing inundation due to rising sea levels. A groundbreaking bilateral treaty allows Tuvaluans to live, study, and work in Australia, receiving immediate access to essential services. This initiative offers a dignified pathway as the island nation grapples with existential threats from climate change.

The Congress is holding a major rally at Ramlila Maidan to protest alleged vote chori and issues with electoral rolls. Top leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, will address the gathering. The party claims to have collected over five crore signatures nationwide, criticizing the Election Commission's neutrality and demanding electoral reforms.

China's manufacturing sector is embracing automation, with some factories already operating with minimal human intervention. While larger companies invest heavily, smaller businesses adopt a hybrid approach, integrating technology to assist workers. This shift raises concerns about job losses and the cost of modernization for SMEs.