The Economic Times
Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
Union Minister Rajnath Singh accused the Congress and its allies of inciting unrest and seeking regime change. He stated that the youth are being exploited for political confrontation rather than constructive initiatives. Singh emphasized the importance of respecting democratic institutions and maintaining law and order. He urged political leaders to focus on dialogue and nation-building instead of destructive politics.
An 18-month-old girl died after allegedly being pushed down a stairwell by a 10-year-old neighbor. CCTV footage reportedly showed the older child lifting the toddler before the incident occurred. The toddler was found by her brother after their mother could not locate her. The 10-year-old has been presented to the Child Welfare Committee for further inquiries. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of the toddler.
Consumers are maintaining festive spending but are focusing on value and utility as shopping habits evolve. Clothing remains the top category, while online sales are increasing, particularly among tier-2 and tier-3 cities. However, there is caution in purchasing patterns for high-priced items like jewellery and gold. Demand for groceries and fast-moving consumer goods is expected to grow during the festive season.
Kolkata's Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that the Centre will assign enemy properties to the West Bengal government. These properties include various assets left by individuals who migrated to enemy countries. The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved this decision after recent discussions at the BIMSTEC meeting. The state government plans to use revenue from these properties for local development projects.
In the fiscal year 2026-27, India's economy is expected to see growth ranging from 7.1 to 7.3 percent, fueled by a recovery in private investments coupled with enhanced business dynamics. For the past ten years, strong household consumption and substantial public infrastructure investments have driven growth. Nonetheless, uncertainties stemming from geopolitical issues and energy price fluctuations pose potential threats to this forecast.
In a promising update on the India-US trade agreement, Nirmala Sitharaman indicated that negotiations are progressing well, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal mentioning that legal drafting for the initial phase is in motion. Addressing concerns related to trade imbalances and China's market access restrictions, Sitharaman underlined the critical role of infrastructure investments in driving economic growth despite global setbacks.
Representatives from Ladakh condemned a recent statement by China claiming the region as part of its territory. They emphasized that Ladakh has never been part of China in recorded history. During a press conference, concerns were raised about the necessity of Indian governmental response to the Chinese assertion. The people of Ladakh expressed their support for the Indian armed forces during conflicts with China.
Ladakh representatives expressed dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Home Affairs draft proposal after a meeting in Leh, citing a wide gap between the two sides positions on constitutional safeguards. They are seeking legislative, executive and financial powers, with the next meeting scheduled for October 22 in New Delhi.
An alleged mass shooting plot targeting Indian Americans at the Sri Venkateswara Swami Balaji Temple has emerged. Alexandros Paporakis, 19, was arrested after police uncovered a manifesto containing extremist ideologies and a detailed attack plan. Local officials, including Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, condemned the threat and called for collective action against hate. The incident has sparked concern from the Indian government and advocacy groups about rising anti-South Asian sentiment.
Teslas redesigned Roadster recently stunned audiences by performing aerial maneuvers, including driving upside down and flying briefly, at a SpaceX facility. While showcasing advanced technology, experts remain cautious about the practicality of flying cars for everyday use. As production delays push the launch to 2028, questions linger about safety and regulatory approvals for the ambitious electric sports car.
Is Ranabaali a real story? Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna's Ranabaali draws inspiration from the Great Madras Famine of 187678. Here's what history reveals about the famine and the real-life origins of Ranabaali, Jayamma and the film's British antagonist.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma launched four digital financial management initiatives aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability. These initiatives include the Mizoram Integrated Works Accounts System, e-Sanction, e-Budget, and 100% Direct Benefit Transfer. The new systems will streamline public financial management across various state departments for better efficiency. Payments under state schemes will now be directly transferred to beneficiaries' bank accounts after Treasury approval
A Defence Industry Seminar was organized by the Embassy of India in Kazakhstan to promote collaboration. Fourteen Indian defence industries were represented alongside forty Kazakhstan officials from various sectors. Participants engaged in discussions that led to opportunities for joint ventures and technology transfer. Y K Sailas Thangal emphasized the importance of co-development between India and Kazakhstan. This event highlighted the growing strategic and defence partnership between the two
Anchorage witnessed a heated debate among major U.S. Senate candidates, focusing on the Iran war and energy policy. Republican Senator Dan Sullivan emphasized the need to end the war while advocating for increased Alaskan energy production. Democrat Mary Peltola criticized the war's effects on Alaskans and refuted Sullivan's claims about her effectiveness. Both candidates attempted to align themselves with critical local issues amid a challenging political climate.
Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia are increasing, disrupting investments and key infrastructure. The Houthis are seeking recognition and an end to restrictions in Yemen. Iran is supporting the Houthis while targeting Saudi vulnerabilities to pressure the US. Saudi leadership faces a dilemma of escalating military actions or making concessions to the Houthis. The ongoing conflict complicates regional stability and security in the Arabian Peninsula.
Nirmala Sitharaman has identified China's constraints on Indian exports as a crucial hindrance to trade advancement. The finance minister reported a staggering trade deficit exceeding $100 billion with China this year, even with improved diplomatic relations. She noted that non-tariff barriers obstruct Indian products, especially generic medicines, from entering China.
During this year's Dussehra celebrations, the Shri Keshav Ramlila Committee will burn a 30-foot effigy of a cockroach. This decision aims to bring attention to unhygienic conditions prevalent in society and neighborhoods. The committee has previously burned effigies representing various issues affecting the country during the festival. The effigy will be set ablaze at the committee's grounds in Pitampura.
SEBI has revised the Closing Auction Session framework, changing market timings, order transfer rules and settlement price calculations for derivatives. The updated rules will take effect from December 7, 2026, with provisions for transferring unexecuted limit and iceberg orders kicking in on February 8, 2027.
In a bid to unite Southern states, Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is meticulously orchestrating a Southern Alliance among state leaders. This collaboration seeks to resolve pressing issues, particularly concerning water-sharing conflicts, potentially via river interlinking schemes. Naidu has garnered support from both allies and opposition figures for this initiative.
Ukraine's recent decision to resume strikes on Russian oil refineries has drawn criticism from Trump, who emphasizes the impact on global energy prices. After President Zelenskiy announced a ceasefire abandonment, Ukraine targeted a Rosneft refinery near Moscow, affecting diesel supply. Trump questioned the effectiveness of such attacks, citing their contribution to higher world oil prices. He expressed doubts about Zelenskiy's willingness to negotiate compared to Putin.
Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh called artificial intelligence the most consequential change to the US and global economies in his lifetime, cautioning that its near-term impact on employment remains uncertain. Speaking with IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva, he also flagged global investment growth, rising prices and the Feds commitment to price stability.
Manganiello has shared hospital photos from his seven-year battle with a mysterious illness. The actor revealed details of his health struggles and the surgery that changed his life. He referred to the photos as BLOODLINES Chapter 1 in his Instagram post.
Mumbai police have issued a prohibitory order regarding the shooting and circulation of images or videos. This order applies to floating or half-submerged Durga idols from October 20 to 22. Idols will be immersed in various water bodies throughout the city during this time. The measure aims to prevent religious sentiments from being hurt while maintaining public peace and order. Police emphasize that circulating certain images can potentially disturb tranquility.
India's Balance of Payments (BoP) is turning positive, but it is likely to remain lower than earlier expectations as elevated oil prices and an expanding non-oil, non-gold deficit weigh on the external trade position, according to a research report by ICICI Bank Global Markets.
Who is Arnold Vosloo acting as Theodore in Ranabaali? Hector South African actor Arnold Vosloo, best known as Imhotep in The Mummy, is now playing Sir Theodore Hector in Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna's period drama Ranabaali. The film portrays a story of colonial India when millions of people died.
I might be arrested, but Im not worried: Dipke vows to hoist flag amid heavy security in Delhi
Fusion CXs Rs 702 crore IPO entered its final bidding day, with 1.10 times subscription on Day 2 and an 8% grey market premium. Brokerages highlight growth potential, improving profitability, AI-driven demand and reasonable valuations, while proceeds will primarily reduce debt and fund technology upgrades.
Sahajanand Medical Technologies IPO entered Day 2 on October 16, 2026, with a 12% GMP and 34% subscription on Day 1. The Rs 475.48-crore offer for sale is priced at Rs 327-344 per share. PAT surged 175% to Rs 69 crore in FY26 amid steady revenue growth.
Jailer 2 has got everyone talking, especially with Hrithik Roshans electrifying cameo alongside the iconic Rajinikanth. Hrithik steps into the role of Roddy, playing a crucial part in aiding Rajinikanth's character, Tiger Muthuvel Pandian, during a critical juncture. Read on to know more about Bollywood actor's role.
Zen Technologies, HDFC Asset Management Company, and Signatureglobal recorded closing prices above their volume-weighted average prices on October 15, reflecting intraday trading strength across these three Nifty 500 stocks.
Jio is set to enter a competitive market with its IPO, which marks Reliance's first offering since 2006. The shift from physical share certificates to demat accounts has greatly streamlined investor experiences over the years. Investors will benefit from reforms that include blocked amounts and faster listing times. The proposed IPO will cater to a considerably larger base of individual investors than previous offerings.
Bonfiglioli Transmissions IPO entered Day 2 with a 24% GMP and 48% overall subscription on Day 1. The Rs 2,533.66-crore offer for sale is priced at Rs 558-586 per share. Anand Rathi assigned a Subscribe for Long Term rating, citing growth in automation despite fully valued pricing metrics.
Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad workers protested by locking the Vice Chancellors office after an unaddressed strike. The students organized an 18-day indefinite strike to raise various pending issues affecting their interests. Following the strike, significant concerns regarding hostels and student safety remained unresolved by the university administration. Despite multiple communications, the university failed to provide anticipated responses, leading to further dissatisfaction among stude
Saudi Arabia's local organizing committee confirmed that the 2027 Asian Cup preparations remain on schedule despite recent Houthi attacks. The tournament is set to take place in January, with matches scheduled in Jeddah, Riyadh, and Al Khobar. Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa stated that a decision could be made by the end of November. He indicated the possibility of postponing the competition to 2028 if necessary.
Anna Faris has reacted to Chuck Lorres comments about his initial reluctance to cast her as Christy Plunkett in the sitcom Mom. In an Instagram statement, the actress said the remarks hurt but expressed gratitude for the seven years she spent on the show. Faris also revealed she has been sober for 18 months and is now healthy, working and happier than ever. Her response comes six years after she announced her departure from the CBS sitcom.
HPCL, HDFC AMC and Nuvoco Vistas featured in StockEdges White Marubozu scan on October 15, reflecting strong upward price momentum.
Surkamp, the lead singer of Pavlovs Dog, has died at 73. The band announced his death in a Facebook post by Abbie Steiling. She paid tribute to his musical legacy, poetic spirit and love of performing. Surkamps music touched fans across generations.
Tata Communications, RITES and Cemindia Projects featured in StockEdges RSI Trending Up scan on October 15 after gaining over 6%.
CJP Protest Today October 16: CJP's Tiranga protest is scheduled at Connaught Place's Central Park in Delhi on October 16, 2026, at 5 pm. Traffic restrictions may begin at 3 pm, affecting 21 roads and stretches. Check road diversions, New Delhi Railway Station access, Metro services and closures before travelling.
Steven Soderbergh has steped in to aid the completion of 'The Batman Part II', with Matt Reeves still at the helm. The film is reportedly two-thirds finished but has endured several delays since its initial announcement. Robert Pattinson is set to reprise his role along with returning cast members and some exciting new faces. It's scheduled for release on February 18, 2028.
Security forces have been deployed in Connaught Place for a planned protest by Abhijeet Dipke. Traffic disruptions are anticipated in and around Connaught Place starting from 3 PM on Friday afternoon. The New Delhi Municipal Council has announced that Central Park will remain closed to the public on October 16 and 17. Prohibitory orders are already enforced in the area to maintain law and order during the protest.
Jio Platforms has set an IPO price band of 1,065 to 1,119 per share. The company plans to raise around 30,000 crore during its initial public offering. Isha Ambani emphasized pricing the IPO accessibly for ensuring long-term shareholder value. Funds from the IPO will be used to reduce debt and support future growth initiatives. Jio's listing is expected to make RIL Group India's largest conglomerate by market capitalization.
Reliance Industries expressed its openness to competition in the satellite broadband market, including Starlink. The company emphasized the need for all players to adhere to the same regulatory processes and laws. Reliance stated that it has never shied away from competition, drawing parallels to its own entry into the telecom sector. Jio has established a significant customer base by providing affordable digital services throughout India.

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