The Economic Times

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a forensic investigation regarding an audio clip released recently. This audio clip claims that a BJP leader discussed a 500 crore payment intended to manage Maratha leader Manoj Jarange Patil. Shiv Sena's Ramdas Kadam questioned the credibility of the BJP following the allegations made in the audio. The BJP responded by warning Shiv Sena not to complicate the ruling alliance's stability.

Hunter Biden Laptop case: The case was filed less than two weeks before the November 3 elections via criminal complaint, which means prosecutors have not yet presented the allegations to a grand jury for an indictment.

Congress has approached Samajwadi Party regarding contesting a significant number of seats in Uttar Pradesh. While Congress has proposed 175 to 200 seats, Samajwadi Party considers this demand excessive for the party's strength. Currently, Congress holds only two seats in the UP assembly of 403 members. The leadership of both parties will meet for discussions on seat-sharing arrangements.

Elections for the municipal committees of Leh and Kargil will take place on November 21. These elections involve a total of 38 wards, comprising 21 in Leh and 17 in Kargil. The municipal elections are essential as both committees have completed their terms. The last elections held in Ladakh were in 2018, prior to its division from Jammu and Kashmir.

Operations continue in Manipur to arrest suspects involved in the killings of three civilians earlier this week. State home minister Govindas Konthoujam confirmed three individuals have already been arrested and are linked to the Kuki National Front. The incident occurred when militants ambushed a group of Meitei men collecting firewood in the region. Protesters gathered in Imphal to express their anger over the tragic events.

Donald Trump, who has offered shifting goals and timelines for the war, said earlier this month that the US would not launch an attack on Iran before the midterm elections in which control of Congress is up for grab.

US treasury yield on 10-year note plunged 19.3 basis points on Thursday, its biggest drop since March 10, 2023, when SVB Financial Group was closed by regulators after the bank's failed attempt to raise capital.

A retired judge visited the site of a tragic stampede during Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata. The incident resulted in 19 deaths and 25 injuries, prompting an investigation by the Special Investigation Team. A second announcer was arrested for allegedly causing panic with misleading announcements at the pandal. The emergency exit was reportedly locked when chaos ensued, exacerbating the situation.

Tata Sons is currently observing the situation involving its majority owners, Tata Trusts, regarding governance issues. The annual general meeting (AGM) deadlines are approaching and require shareholder majority for resolutions. Important changes in trustee roles could affect voting dynamics significantly. Legal experts suggest focusing on regulatory clarity to facilitate successful AGM execution. Clear representation and consensus among the trusts are critical for passing necessary resolutions.

Jamia protests: Ten individuals were detained by Delhi Police near Jamia Millia Islamia amid ongoing protests. The protests began on October 12 and demand students' union elections. Students claim that the last elections were held in 2005, after which the union was dissolved. Tensions escalated on October 17 when authorities attempted to remove demonstrators from campus property. University security has since been tightened with students being checked prior to entry.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh urged the Indian Army to prepare a strategic vision for the next two to three decades. He emphasized the need for dynamic strategies that can adapt to changing circumstances and immediate challenges. Singh also released a new Land Warfare Doctrine aimed at addressing future warfare challenges. The minister praised the armed forces for their innovative approach during Operation Sindoor.

Piyush Goyal engaged with major German firms like Siemens Healthineers, Bayer, and Fresenius to discuss investments. He highlighted Bayer's plans for expansion and collaboration in India's healthcare ecosystem. Goyal also addressed opportunities for Fresenius to leverage India's talent for healthcare solutions. Furthermore, he explored ways to strengthen Siemens Healthineers' presence in the country. These discussions reflect India's growing relevance in the global healthcare market.

Indo-Tibetan Border Police Director General Shatrujeet Kapur addressed recent border tensions with Chinese forces in Arunachal Pradesh. These tensions arose from Chinese forces straying from established patrolling routes along the Line of Actual Control. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the need for maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas. Both nations are utilizing diplomatic and military channels to resolve ongoing issues effectively.

India's private sector activity experienced significant growth in October, reaching a four-month high as new orders increased. The HSBC Flash India Composite Purchasing Managers' Index rose to 56.7, signaling expansion. Manufacturing output and new orders remained stable, while services activity saw notable improvement. Employment increased slightly, although firms showed caution in hiring due to adequate staffing levels. International demand contributed to growth, with export orders expanding s

Indias fifth and sixth bowling options remain a concern, with the all-rounders yet to make their mark in the absence of injury-prone Hardik Pandya.

Epic Games 2026 AI Mega Jam will run from November 12 to 15, offering cash prizes and continuation grants of up to $50,000 for developers building games with Unreal Engine or Unreal Editor for Fortnite. Participants can use AI tools and agents throughout development, while an in-person event in San Francisco will feature teams from major technology companies.

The Indian Army has received a batch of indigenous loitering munitions, Nagastra-2, designed for operational effectiveness. These munitions can operate in GPS-denied environments and track moving targets with onboard vision systems. The Nagastra-2 successfully completed technical trials at Mahajan Field Firing Range in August. Equipped with advanced capabilities, these munitions enhance India's battlefield strike potential against armoured vehicles. The systems are notable for their precision en

On October 23, 1983, a truck bomb exploded at the Marine barracks in Beirut, killing 241 American servicemen. This attack occurred during Lebanon's civil war, where US troops were part of a peacekeeping mission. The bombing was attributed to Islamic Jihad, which opposed American presence in Lebanon. The devastating loss prompted a reassessment of US military operations and eventually led to troop withdrawal in 1984.

Congress has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to brief Parliament and the nation on the border situation in Arunachal Pradesh, with party president Mallikarjun Kharge questioning whether India's patrolling access has been compromised.

On October 21, Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena notified 100 constituencies for the eight LAHDCs, nearly doubling the existing strength of 52 seats. Under the new structure notified through the LAHDC (Amendment) Regulation, 2026, Leh will have 22 constituencies, Kargil 21, Sankoo 13, Changthang 10, Nubra, Sham and Zanskar nine each, and Drass seven.

From January 2027, the Periodic Labour Force Survey will include unpaid household activities and digital platform workers. New questions will identify individuals engaged in caregiving and relevant unpaid volunteer work in both urban and rural settings. This expansion aims to enhance the measurement of labour-market data. The survey will enable better reporting and data collection on these aspects annually.

Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu has called for India to counter racism through development rather than hatred. Responding to American investor Eric Weinstein's concerns about anti-India sentiment, Vembu said the country must build on the talents of its people to earn international respect. His remarks also drew reactions from social media users who backed his emphasis on growth and prosperity.

TDP filed complaints before the SEC against alleged violence by YSRCP to stall local body election process. Following the SC directive, the SEC ruled that candidates in four of 19 municipalities will be given more time. Addressing a press conference, former chief minister and YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said that the Naidu-led government was not honouring the SC directive and was going ahead with the anarchy in the local body elections.

The United States is expected to withdraw 50% tariffs on certain Canadian goods to assist Republicans. This decision is likely to be announced soon, potentially influencing the midterm elections. Maine Senator Susan Collins has advocated for relief from tariffs affecting her states economy. Competitive candidates in trade-dependent states may benefit from the proposed changes in tariffs. The future adjustments aim to mitigate the impact of Trump's trade war with Canada.

Earlier in August, Badal's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his office in Parliament House had triggered speculation about the possibility of the regional party joining hands with the BJP again. The SAD had snapped its 24-year-old alliance with the BJP in September 2020 over the now-scrapped three farm laws.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), silver futures fell 6,799 per kg, or 3.4%, to 1,92,800 per kg on Friday. Prices have plunged 32,955, or more than 14%, over the past 10 sessions. A recent appreciation in the rupee has provided only limited relief against the decline in international prices.

India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasised a strict stance on quality and environmental regulations. He noted that many companies are eager to invest in India across various sectors. Goyal mentioned India's advantages in decarbonisation amidst competition from Europes carbon border adjustment mechanism. Discussions on free trade agreements indicate significant potential for job creation in India.

Ilhan Omar is facing renewed scrutiny over her financial disclosures, which previously listed assets valued at up to $30 million, even as she claims to live paycheck to paycheck on her $174,000 congressional salary. The controversy has resurfaced after federal agents raided her Washington, D.C., home, prompting her to announce that she is moving out.

The United States is considering a military strike on Iran, which could happen as soon as this weekend. US envoy Tom Barrack confirmed that President Trump remains open to negotiations regarding Iran's actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also expressed a strong stance against Iran, emphasising a desire for decisive action. Tensions have escalated after recent bombing campaigns against Iran over the past year.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman led an important session of the Financial Stability and Development Council, focusing on maintaining financial stability amidst looming geopolitical tensions and fluctuating global bond yields. Key topics included fostering a robust domestic investment climate, ensuring effective capital movement for reform, and addressing cybersecurity needs within the financial sector.

The selection process for the next James Bond is reportedly in its final stages. Callum Turner and Jack Lowden are among those being considered for the role. There is a suggestion for a female 007 to bring a new dynamic to the franchise. The potential change could generate significant publicity, regardless of public reaction. Adapting the character could yield interesting results for the long-standing series.

A gold investment scam in Norway has prompted banks to warn customers after victims were allegedly persuaded to buy gold and leave it in forests, believing it would be kept safe as its value increased. Finans Norge says cases have been reported around Oslo and in Bergen, as authorities and banks step up efforts to raise awareness about financial fraud.

Apple has collaborated with The Conservation Fund to revitalise 14,000 acres of coastal redwood forest in California. This ambitious project aims to safeguard ecosystems while benefiting wildlife, enhancing carbon storage, and enriching local communities. It plays a vital role in Apples commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, as the ongoing monitoring of forest growth is intended to generate carbon credits, aiding in the reduction of emissions.

Alaska Senate race: US Constitution grants states the power to run their own elections. Elections for federal office like the Senate must comply with standards set by Congress.

Indian real estate recorded USD 705 million in deals in the July-September quarter. This marks a significant 69 percent decrease from the previous quarter's USD 2.3 billion. Deal volumes also fell by 38 percent quarter-on-quarter, indicating a cautious investment climate. Private equity remained a key contributor with nine transactions valued at USD 555 million.

For those rushing out the door in the mornings, breakfast can often feel like an insurmountable task. Mumbai nutritionist Vanshika Khurana simplifies this with a delectable savoury yoghurt bowl thats packed with 45g protein and 17 g fibre. Featuring Greek yoghurt, chickpeas, and crisp vegetables, paired with a hint of spices, its a protein-rich solution. Quick sauting and toasted bread make this a swift yet healthy choice for busy days.

The US Justice Department is seeking to invalidate Alaska's Senate election results if the Republican incumbent loses next month, in a rare legal move that raises questions about the Trump administration's willingness to accept defeat in the midterms. Democrats have accused the Trump administration of seeking to influence the November vote by expanding federal control over state-run elections and by repeatedly questioning the integrity of election results.

In Trappes and La Verriere, a Paris suburban area, a gunman opened fire, killing one person and injuring several others. Authorities suspect the attack to be racially motivated, leading them to classify it as a terrorist crime. A twelve-year-old girl was among the seriously injured, reflecting the attack's random targeting of passersby. The suspect was arrested shortly after the shootings, which happened in under fifteen minutes.

US Treasury yields rise after a sharp drop in the previous session, but the benchmark 10 year yield stays below 5% as lingering AI market concerns keep investors cautious. Strong economic activity and sticky inflation remain key factors for bond markets, while expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike next week weaken further.

Michael Gray, renowned for his iconic role as Billy Batson in the beloved 1970s series Shazam!, has passed away at the age of 75. His career began with various television performances, notably in the 1972 NBC show The Little People. After feeling constrained by typecasting, he pursued children's theatre education and ran a floral business.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the Army Commanders' Conference in New Delhi, emphasizing the importance of strategic vision. He called for the Indian Army to remain prepared for future challenges and adapt to evolving operational circumstances. Singh highlighted the significance of integrating modern technology and multi-domain capabilities for effective warfare. The Defence Minister also released the new Land Warfare Doctrine while recognizing the efforts of Indian peacekeepers.