The Economic Times

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the need for investment in AI, semiconductor chips, and quantum technology. She stated that strengthening digital infrastructure will support AI adoption across various sectors. Additionally, Sitharaman underscored the importance of providing AI solutions to micro, small, and medium enterprises. She believes that achieving over 10 percent economic growth is possible with greater effort in all sectors.

Amazon Prime FTC settlement refunds: The Federal Trade Commission just forced a massive recalculation of how much digital friction a company can legally use. Amazon is now distributing the next wave of a $2.5 billion settlement reached in 2025. The agency claimed Amazon enrolled users in Prime without clear consent and built deliberate design roadblocks to stop them from canceling. The company ultimately agreed to pay a $1 billion civil penalty and establish a $1.5 billion refund pool.

The Indian Super League will return for the 2026-27 season on Saturday, featuring a double-header of matches. The first match will be between Bengaluru FC and Sporting Club Delhi at Sree Kanteerava Stadium. Season games have been scheduled primarily for weekends to enhance fan engagement.

Eujue, an innovative South Korean-American artist, has successfully transformed a missing subway tile at Delancey Street into a vibrant piece of living ceramic art. The eye-catching installation garnered the interest of NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, leading Eujue to propose a project that empowers artists to fill vacant tiles with their art, aiming to revitalize overlooked subway environments through creative engagement.

The word confabulate has two distinct uses in English. It can mean engaging in conversation, while in psychology and medicine it describes producing inaccurate memories or information without deliberately attempting to deceive. Its Latin roots connect it to conversation and storytelling, making it a word whose meaning changes significantly with context.

A teacher at Dr. W.A. MacLeod Consolidated School has been charged with sexual assault against multiple victims in incidents reported to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police shortly after the start of the school year. While an investigation is in progress, he has been placed on unpaid leave and is expected in court on October 19.

Aaditya Thackeray endorsed a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar if he does not resign. The Cockroach Janta Party aims to mobilize significant public opposition starting October 2. They are concerned about the exclusion of over 13 crore names from electoral rolls across the country.

The September 24 INSAT-3DS image captured a notable contrast across India, with extensive cloud formations covering central and eastern areas while parts of the northwest remained comparatively clear. The satellite view also showed moisture extending from the Bay of Bengal as a deep depression influenced rainfall across several states, offering a glimpse of the uneven nature of the late-monsoon transition.

A Punjab Police inspector named Baldev Singh was arrested in Ferozepur after a police checkpoint revealed contraband. Over 3 kg of heroin and multiple firearms, including six pistols and live ammunition, were found in his vehicle. Authorities have initiated legal action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act as well as the Arms Act. Police are investigating potential involvement of other individuals in the incident.

Indian equities extended their losing streak as elevated crude, US Treasury yields, geopolitical risks and FPI selling weighed on sentiment. However, foreign investors continued backing IPOs, selectively buying debt and mid-small caps, suggesting portfolio selectivity rather than a broad withdrawal from Indian markets.

In 1946, the US began nuclear testing at Bikini Atoll, conducting 23 explosions that displaced all the inhabitants and destabilised the coral reef. But 70 years later, scientists discovered thriving marine life, including giant corals, tuna, sharks, crabs and reef fish. More recent expeditions found giant clams, sea turtles, groupers and parrotfish flourishing.

The rise in COVID-19 cases is notably observed in the Southern and Western regions of the United States. Wastewater analysis indicates a concerning spike in viral activity, which suggests increased community transmission. Reports show infections are on the rise in 27 states, while 13 states experience a decline. With overlapping symptoms between COVID-19 and influenza, accurate diagnosis poses a challenge for health officials.

Rohit Rajpal indicated he might resign as India's Davis Cup captain, citing the need for fresh perspectives. He expressed readiness to share his insights for a smoother transition for his successor. Rajpal emphasized the importance of understanding player dynamics and fostering new talent for the team's future. He has also announced his candidacy for the AITA presidency to focus on player-centric development.

Before Warren Buffett became a billionaire investor, he was a child saving small amounts of money from selling Coke and doing odd jobs. By age 11, those savings had reached $114, enough to buy his first stock. But Buffett says the real lesson was not about the amount he had; it was about a habit he learned early from his father, one he believes can shape financial success long before a person earns a big income.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant affirmed the judiciary's commitment to safeguarding students' rights to peaceful protests. He addressed police responses to student demonstrations during an event at Chanakya National Law University. Additionally, he discussed the importance of personal dignity in judicial collegium decisions.

Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Finance Minister, radiated confidence in India's economic future, forecasting a growth rate surpassing 10 percent. She stressed the necessity of embracing technology and innovation in all sectors, celebrating the impact of startups since 2015. Furthermore, she emphasized technology's ability to revolutionize agriculture for increased productivity. The minister called upon citizens to nurture a constructive approach in pursuit of these vital economic objectives.

Tukaram Mundhe, the FDA Commissioner, is at the forefront of tackling food safety issues in Maharashtra. Recently, actress Preity Zinta expressed her backing by wearing a 'Team Tukaram Mundhe' T-shirt and praising his initiatives. Mundhe responded positively to her public endorsement, stressing that true support must lead to actionable change rather than mere symbolism. He persistently motivates the public to adopt a proactive approach to food safety.

U.S. Weather Update: Concerts were canceled, along with dozens of flights going into airports in Boston, Nantucket and Marthas Vineyard on Friday and Saturday. Several airlines were offering to waive some change or cancellation fees for some East Coast flights through the weekend.

Sony Pictures Networks India is set to debut a new show called Raandhuni Na Kaanduni on October 3. The program combines comedy and cooking, showcasing Bengali culture and personalities in unique ways. Hosted by Ankush Hazra, it promises engaging interactions among familiar faces in a cooking environment. This format moves beyond traditional cooking competitions to highlight humor and relationships.

Recent discussions at the United Nations General Assembly focused on the effectiveness of multilateral governance. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concerns that the current international system fails to address major conflicts effectively. He emphasized that the United States will prioritize its national interests over the international order. Comments from UN officials stressed the need for member states to recommit to diplomacy and international law.

Travel companies will increasingly need to focus on building continuity across the customer journey, strengthening trust and making it easier for travellers to return to an existing plan as artificial intelligence reshapes how trips are discovered and booked, according to a joint report by Skift Research and McKinsey & Company.

Tehran has spent long weeks in discussions with Oman, on the other side of the strait, on how to manage shipping traffic. Its new rush for a deal with Washington, analysts said, reflects its eye on the midterms.

A shocking encounter unfolded in Langwarrin, Melbourne, where a 41-year-old man was critically wounded while confronting teens attempting to break into his car. The man faced multiple stab wounds during the altercation and was later discovered by neighbors who promptly called for help. He underwent emergency surgery following his hospitalization. Authorities swiftly apprehended three suspects involved in this incident, but further investigations are underway with pending charges.

Iran's president and foreign minister proposed a deal to the US to end fighting and assist diplomacy. They seek the lifting of sanctions, access to funds, and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Ongoing indirect talks indicate both sides are willing to negotiate despite rising tensions. The urgency for Iran reflects its economic struggles and the upcoming US midterm elections.

Delcy Rodriguez, Venezuela's interim President, attended the UN General Assembly in search of business deals. Her visit aimed to showcase Venezuela's potential for financial recovery after US sanctions were imposed. Despite high visibility, no concrete agreements were reached, illustrating deep US influence over her administration. Opposition parties are pressing for election timelines, emphasizing the need for political change. Rodriguez's meeting with US officials included discussions on restr

Tej Pratap Yadav and Shehzad Poonawalla are contestants on the new season of Rise & Fall. The show is hosted by former cricketer Virender Sehwag and features a Rulers-versus-Workers format. Both participants have expressed their intentions for entertainment and friendly competition. Tej Pratap previously faced controversies leading to his six-year expulsion from RJD, while Poonawalla resigned from BJP citing personal issues.

September 2026's full moon, called the Harvest Moon, peaks on 26 September at 10:19 PM IST. It rises around sunset and can be seen with the naked eye across India tonight and tomorrow night. This year it comes with Saturn visible nearby, making it a rare double sighting.

Phoebe Waller-Bridge's quote from Fleabag speaks to the challenge of wearing a mask of false optimism. It underscores the vital importance of being emotionally honest with oneself when facing life's hurdles. Allowing space for discomfort and vulnerability, rather than succumbing to toxic positivity, fosters healthier emotional resilience. This authentic approach promotes a more practical strategy for navigating the complexities of existence.

Congress has raised serious questions about the investigation into the Ram temple donation theft. They demand a transparent inquiry under the Supreme Court's supervision to reveal the truth. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh emphasizes the need for accountability within the overseeing system. The investigation has seen evidence of multiple theft incidents and questioned the roles of specific individuals.

Bitcoin rebounded to around $84,000 after briefly crossing $86,000, while Ethereum traded near $2,688. Bitcoin gained 3.6% weekly, supported by positive ETF flows and reduced uncertainty after the US Federal Reserve

Dr. Ragini Nayak has criticized the BJP-led government for allegedly stopping the Special Summary Revision for young voters. She claims that this move aims to prevent the youth from registering to vote. Nayak expressed her belief that the youth and first-time voters are aware of their political influence. Additionally, she highlighted concerns surrounding the recent issues with education and NEET paper leaks affecting students.

Recently, China and the US have come together to hammer out a deal where both countries will cut tariffs by $30 billion. This agreement, part of an eight-point plan, also opens the door to discussions about artificial intelligence. This move is seen as a positive step toward improving trade relations between the two economic powerhouses.

Rohit Sharma's enthusiasm for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup shines through as he reveals his intention to play despite retiring from Test and T20I formats. He is dedicated to his ODI endeavors as the tournament approaches, co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. India's preparations include a challenging series against the West Indies and more exciting contests ahead.

The Delhi High Court dismissed a petition from athlete Shubham Kumar regarding Jiu-Jitsu participation. Kumar requested intervention to ensure his inclusion in the Asian Games event. The Centre's representative stated that his nomination was beyond the cutoff date for entries. The court noted that the authorities' decisions are objective and not subject to judicial interference. Ultimately, the court ruled that participation could not be mandated by judicial authority.

Wells W. Cooke began recording bird migration dates in 1880 using index cards and a network of volunteers. This initiative expanded into a national program that operated until 1970, collecting millions of data points. Recent research has utilized this historical data to understand how climate change has impacted bird migration patterns. Studies indicate birds are migrating earlier in spring due to warming trends.

Vishal Nirmiti Ltd is gearing up for its initial public offering, setting a price range of Rs 208 to 220. The IPO is scheduled to commence on September 30 and conclude by October 5, featuring both a fresh issue and an offer for sale. The proceeds will be allocated toward enhancing working capital and addressing corporate requirements.

To preserve its freshness, asparagus requires careful handling after purchase. A beneficial technique involves standing the spears upright in water while storing them in the refrigerator. While cold storage is essential for longevity, research shows that hydration plays a significant role in maintaining freshness. Thus, this method should complement refrigeration for optimal results, ensuring your asparagus stays crisp and vibrant.

In response to concerns over potential GPS failures, the US Navy has reintroduced celestial navigation training. This decision addresses vulnerabilities such as signal spoofing and interference that have affected navigation systems, notably in commercial aviation. Reports have highlighted instances of GPS disruptions in flights, prompting the Navy to acknowledge the necessity of backup navigation methods to ensure safety in an era heavily reliant on GPS technology.

Anjali Anand faced formidable challenges in her acting career, intensifying during the pandemic when her savings plummeted in just 6 months. A supportive message from a casting director reignited her determination, sparking a chance audition with the esteemed Karan Johar for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. Despite her family's doubts, her undeniable talent shone through, earning her a pivotal role.

PV Sindhu and Ayush Shetty progressed to the pre-quarterfinals after winning their respective matches. Sindhu overcame Chiu Pin-chian in the second round with scores of 21-19 and 21-14. Meanwhile, Lakshya Sen faced a tough defeat against Loh Kean Yew, exiting the tournament in the second round. Unnati Hooda also advanced by defeating Malaysia's Ling Ching Wong. The Indian badminton team faced challenges as key players were eliminated in early rounds.

A trial on the Palwal-Mathura section proved that the Kavach anti-collision system can stop a WAP-5 locomotive running at 160 kmph without any input from the driver. It halted 30 metres before a red signal. With Vande Bharat expanding fast, this result could not have come at a better time.

Ram Kadam defended the credibility of the Election Commission of India amid ongoing political criticism. He stated that allegations against the EC must be supported by factual evidence. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh raised concerns about changes made to voter registration processes.

Swan Island, an uninhabited marsh island in Chesapeake Bay, faces challenges due to severe erosion and habitat loss. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has placed dredged sediment to restore the marsh after significant sinking. Although some high-marsh grass took root successfully, low-marsh plots remained bare after three years of monitoring. Continued erosion shows the need for a long-term adaptive management plan for restoration efforts.

A significant recall of nearly 1.7 million pounds of sugar products has been announced by the US FDA. The affected sugar products may contain wheat kernels, which pose an allergen risk to consumers. These products are sold under the United, Good & Gather, and Crystal Sugar brands distributed across multiple states. Batches of light brown and powdered sugar with specific batch numbers are included in the recall.

Congress leader Rakesh Sinha has filed a plea in the Supreme Court against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. This plea raises serious concerns over alleged irregularities in the electoral process and claims crores of voters were deprived of their rights. The opposition has intensified its criticism of the Election Commission amid the controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision exercise.

Maharashtra has declared drought in 265 of its talukas due to severe crop damage and water shortages. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar announced 12 relief measures to assist affected farmers. An objective ground-level assessment will determine the specific assistance to farmers in need. Marathwada district faces particularly challenging conditions concerning drinking water and livestock fodder. Additionally, the government is considering concessions for students affected by the drought crisis

The 18th edition of the India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise 'Nomadic Elephant 2026' is being held from September 21 to October 3, 2026, at the Foreign Training Node in Pithoragarh, with troops of the Indian Army and Mongolian Armed Forces undertaking intensive training focused on improving interoperability, tactical proficiency and mutual understanding.

GIFT Nifty recorded a record single-day volume of 457,999 contracts worth $21.18 billion on September 24, 2026. Open interest also hit an all-time high, highlighting growing activity since full-scale operations began in July 2023 at NSE IX.

Since the launch of the Croton Aqueduct in 1842, the landscape of clean water access has evolved significantly, tackling severe health crises. The project showcased the city's dedication to public health through extensive labor and financial commitment. Today, however, aging infrastructure, plagued by insufficient funding, faces daunting obstacles, such as lead pipes and frequent breaks.