National / The Times of India
India has exempted specific migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet from penal action under the new immigration law. Simultaneously, US President Donald Trump has labeled India as the most tariffed nation, asserting that New Delhi proposed a o tariff trade agreement. These developments occur amidst evolving global political and economic dynamics.
Tejashwi Yadav has strongly criticized PM Modi, accusing him of hypocrisy in the mother 'abuse' row, citing past controversial remarks. Yadav highlighted Modi's comments about Nitish Kumar's DNA and his campaigning for rape accused Prajwal Revanna.
Gold prices in Delhi reached a new record high, driven by expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut. Geopolitical tensions and concerns about the US economy also contributed to the surge. Silver traded flat, maintaining its record level. Globally, spot gold hit an all-time high, while spot silver saw a slight decrease.
Arvind Kejriwal, AAP national convenor, will assess flood-hit Punjab alongside Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, reviewing relief efforts and engaging with affected residents. Saurabh Bharadwaj is already in Punjab with aid, as AAP leaders and citizens nationwide send supplies. With all 23 districts affected and a rising death toll, Punjab faces its worst floods in decades, prompting widespread support.
Reliance Jio's anticipated IPO by 2026 is poised to significantly impact India's telecom sector, potentially triggering a rerating of Bharti Airtel. CLSA highlights Jio's dominant 42% market share, driven by over 500 million subscribers and aggressive expansion. The IPO and tariff hikes are expected to fuel substantial revenue and EBITDA growth for Jio.
Lady Hardinge Medical College doctors wrongly certified two hearing-impaired NEET candidates. AIIMS experts re-evaluated them after a court order. The AIIMS report revealed a significant discrepancy in disability assessment. The court allowed the students to participate in the second round of counselling. Disability rights activists are demanding an inquiry into LHMC's certification process.
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar emphasized the importance of predictability in global politics amidst shifting relations with China and US tariffs. He highlighted the need for closer collaboration between India, the EU, and Germany due to global strategic and economic volatility. Wadephul stressed the Western nations' desire for peace in Ukraine, noting Russia's unwillingness to negotiate despite efforts.
North India is facing severe hardship due to continuous rains. Rivers are overflowing, disrupting travel and forcing school closures. The India Meteorological Department issued red alerts for several regions. Punjab is experiencing its worst floods since 1988. Himachal Pradesh declared itself a disaster-affected state. Rescue operations are underway in Jammu and Kashmir.
A sprawling bungalow on Motilal Nehru Marg, formerly Jawaharlal Nehru's residence, is poised to be sold for approximately Rs 1,100 crore, potentially marking India's most expensive residential deal. A businessman prominent in the beverage industry is reportedly acquiring the 3.7-acre property from its current owners, Raj Kumari Kackar and Bina Rani, after a year-long due diligence process.
Bank of Baroda expects India's 10-year government bond yield to stay between 6.50 and 6.60 percent in September. The upcoming borrowing calendar is a key factor. A widening interest rate gap with the US supports this. The US Federal Reserve might cut rates, but the Reserve Bank of India is likely to maintain its stance.
Citi has appointed Kaustubh Kulkarni as co-head of Investment Banking Coverage for Japan, Asia North and Australia, and Asia South. Kulkarni, joining from JPMorgan after nearly three decades, will be based in Singapore and report to global banking head Viswas Raghavan.
German foreign minister Johann Wadephul's visit to India reaffirmed the commitment to strengthen economic and strategic cooperation between the two nations. Discussions centered on trade facilitation, innovation, defence, and security, with a focus on finalizing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement by 2025.
The GST Council is considering a rate cut on health and term insurance, potentially making premiums more affordable. While a full exemption could lower premiums significantly, it may create a revenue shortfall for the government. Insurers might face short-term profitability pressures due to slower repricing, but long-term benefits include increased insurance penetration.
S Jaishankar announced India's keenness to finalize the FTA negotiations with the European Union soon. During discussions with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul, Jaishankar highlighted the potential for collaboration in green hydrogen and welcomed German interest in the semiconductor sector.
Donald Trump has accused India of being the 'most tariffed nation,' claiming a historically one-sided trade relationship favoring India. He stated India offered a 'no tariff' deal, but it's 'getting late.'
COP30 faces a significant challenge as only 4-5% of the promised $1.3 trillion climate action fund has been achieved. Vishwas Chitale emphasizes the urgency for developed nations to fulfill their commitments, while COP30 aims for broader synergies beyond finance.
With domestic gold prices soaring by 42.5% in the past year, Indian investors are increasingly drawn to the yellow metal. The article suggests that exposure to gold can be achieved through mutual funds, ETFs, and SIPs, offering advantages over physical gold by eliminating storage hassles and purity concerns.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta resumed her public hearing program, Jan Sunwai, amidst heightened security following a recent attack. Citizens gathered to present grievances, with Gupta assuring swift action. Security measures included frisking, CCTV surveillance, and a protective police ring. Gupta emphasized the importance of public service and resolving citizen issues, directing officials to address concerns promptly.
US President Trump's proposed tariffs on pharmaceutical imports, potentially reaching 200%, aim to lower drug costs but could backfire. Experts warn of increased prices, supply chain disruptions, and reduced access to affordable generics.
Following improved ties between India and China, companies are swiftly pursuing joint ventures in electronics and automobiles. Haier's stake sale gains momentum, while Dixon Technologies advances its JV for precision components. The auto sector anticipates eased import restrictions, and Ashok Leyland partners with CALB Group for battery development, signaling increased optimism among Chinese technology investors.
The 56th GST Council meeting, presided over by Nirmala Sitharaman, is set to introduce significant changes to India's indirect taxation framework. The council is considering consolidating GST rates, potentially eliminating the 12% and 28% categories, and shifting items to 5% or 18% brackets.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann assessed flood-affected regions in Firozepur district, assuring villagers of full government compensation for damages. Mann, visibly moved by residents' concerns, urged patience and promised improved disaster preparedness. He directed officials to promptly address complaints and reiterated his call for increased central government disaster relief.
India's services sector experienced its strongest expansion in 15 years in August, fueled by robust demand and increased international orders, as indicated by the HSBC India Services PMI. New business surged, supported by rising export orders across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the US.
CityMall secured $47 million in funding, spearheaded by Accel, with participation from existing investors. The funds will fuel expansion and enhance private label offerings and brand collaborations. Operating in over 60 cities across multiple states, CityMall's e-commerce platform targets smaller towns, providing economically viable e-commerce solutions for underserved communities.
Edward Price, a US analyst, criticizes President Trump's tariffs on India, advocating for their removal and an apology. He emphasizes the crucial role of the US-India relationship in the 21st century, particularly in relation to China and Russia. Price also acknowledges concerns about Trump's potential financial interests influencing US-India relations, while praising PM Modi's strategic independence.
Amorepacific, the global K-Beauty brand, has experienced a remarkable 70% year-on-year growth on Myntra, fueled by the increasing demand for K-Beauty products in India. This surge is driven by the rising preference for premium skincare among consumers in both metropolitan and emerging markets.
Flipkart-backed super.money, a UPI-centric platform, has witnessed explosive growth, exceeding 250 million monthly transactions, driven by Gen Z users. Their transaction patterns reveal peak activity during evening commutes and late-night cravings. Weekend spending surges at bakeries and restaurants, indicating evolving financial habits. Super.
Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are expected to trade sideways with a bullish bias, potentially reaching new highs amid safe-haven demand and expectations of a Fed rate cut. Silver is predicted to continue its bull run. Geopolitical tensions and concerns over the Fed's independence are also supporting gold's upward trajectory, making any dips potential buying opportunities for investors.
Punjab has declared itself a disaster-affected state due to unprecedented rainfall and flooding, impacting over 1200 villages and displacing lakhs of people. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann compared the situation to the severe floods of 1988, appealing for national support. Across northern India, the IMD has issued red alerts, warning of continued heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides.
Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai suggests Rahul Gandhi may expose alleged vote theft in Varanasi, hinting at a potential 'hydrogen bomb' revelation. This follows Gandhi's claim of an 'atom bomb' expose in Bengaluru and accusations against the Election Commission and BJP regarding vote manipulation. Modi's victory margin in Varanasi was notably lower this election.
Some birds use brood parasitism. They lay eggs in other species' nests. Indigobirds trick finches. Common Cuckoos mimic predators. Honeyguides kill host young. Brown-headed Cowbirds outcompete chicks. Black-headed Ducks are peaceful parasites. These birds ensure survival through manipulation. They rely on other species for raising their young. This is a ruthless strategy in nature.
Union Bank of India projects India's current account deficit (CAD) may nearly double to 1.2% of GDP in FY26 due to rising trade and geopolitical tensions. A widened merchandise trade deficit and the recent US tariff hikes on key sectors are major concerns. Resilient services exports and remittances offer some support, but persistent trade tensions pose a downside risk.
Stock market today: The NSE Nifty increased by 135.45 points or 0.55 per cent to reach 24,715.05. The BSE Sensex experienced significant fluctuations, ultimately rising by 409.83 points or 0.51 per cent to close at 80,567.71. The index moved between a peak of 80,671.28 and a trough of 80,004.60, with a range of 666.68 points.
BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya has accused Congress leader Pawan Khera's wife, Kota Neelima, of possessing two active voter IDs. Malviya also targeted Rahul Gandhi for raising voter fraud allegations without due diligence, accusing him of endangering voters by revealing their identities. He further alleged that multiple Congress leaders hold multiple voter IDs, implicating Sonia Gandhi in the controversy.
German Foreign Minister Johann David Wadephul is in India to discuss the Ukraine conflict and strengthen trade ties. Talks with S Jaishankar will likely address potential secondary sanctions against Russia, which could impact India's energy relations. Jaishankar is expected to reiterate India's support for dialogue and a peaceful resolution, a message previously conveyed to Vladimir Putin.
Following heavy rain and floods, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to airlift nine pieces of heavy construction equipment to restore the damaged Kullu-Manali highway. Restoration work is underway at 12 completely damaged and five partially damaged locations on NH-21. The NHAI has requested assistance from the Himachal Pradesh government to expedite the process.
Congress refuted Prime Minister Modi's accusations of RJD and Congress members abusing his mother, labeling it a sympathy-garnering oolkit orchestrated by Modi himself. The party asserted that no Congress member would abuse anyone's mother. They criticized Modi for allegedly insulting his late mother by referring to himself as on-biological, deeming his language inappropriate.
The Supreme Court has ruled that individuals convicted in cheque bounce cases can avoid jail time by reaching a compromise with the complainant. The court emphasized that cheque dishonor is primarily a civil wrong, making convictions unsustainable once a compromise deed is signed.
The Supreme Court is questioning whether a man's death, ruled as suicide by authorities, was actually a murder. The court expressed doubt about the possibility of self-inflicted chest wounds with a rifle. It has directed the Madhya Pradesh government to submit an affidavit detailing the investigation, including the autopsy report and rifle specifications, to explore all angles.
A preliminary investigation revealed that dual cloudbursts, not a glacial lake outburst flood, triggered the devastating flash floods in Kishtwar's Chasoti village on August 14, resulting in 65 fatalities. A prior government study had already warned of GLOF risks in vulnerable tehsils like Padder, Machail, Dachhan, Marwah, and Warwan, highlighting their susceptibility to sudden flooding events.
Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday said that the flood situation faced by the state is more severe than that in 1988 and expressed hope that people of the country will stand by the state.