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Science & Environment

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British food was complex, multicultural and flavorful in the 18th century

The stereotype of bland British food is notorious, and people mock the horrors of jellied eels and overcooked vegetables. Even roast beef and pudding are seen as uninspired compared with the cuisines of other nations. But British food is and has historically been complex, multicultural and flavorful.

Phys.org 21 Sep 2026 6:00 am

PwC sets the template, rivals weigh their next move in India's advisory race

PwC India's JV with PwC US Advisory has rivals reassessing ties with their own offshore units. Driven by AI's disruption of traditional consulting and fiercer competition for US-based GCC clients, the move signals a broader shift toward merging onshore-offshore advisory ops across the Big Six.

Livemint 21 Sep 2026 5:36 am

US' nips at Moscow may sour India ties

India has been in talks with the US over the past few months, conveying the possible adverse impact on ties if up to 100% tariffs are imposed under the legislation.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 5:30 am

Brigitte Bardot's ballet flats and diamond rings to be sold at auction

Many of the film star's personal items, on sale in Paris, are priced at under 100.

BBC 21 Sep 2026 4:43 am

Will you get 13,000 a year when you stop working? Here's how to check

How to find out how much state pension you're likely to receive - and what you can do about it now.

BBC 21 Sep 2026 4:32 am

In 2003, Mexico's Salinas Victoria used landfill methane to tackle waste pollution; the result made 7 MW, powering 25,000 homes and Monterreys public transport network daily

Salinas Victoria experience also showed how waste management and energy planning can intersect. The World Bank reports that the plant eventually supplied almost 60% of the energy needed for public street lighting, public buildings and drinking-water pumping in the Monterrey metropolitan area, while covering about 80% of the energy requirements of Monterrey's transportation system.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 3:27 am

Russia's ruling pro-Putin party on track for easy win in wartime elections

Russia's ruling pro-Putin party on track for easy win in wartime elections

India Today 21 Sep 2026 3:00 am

Diana's Brother Vs King Charles ERUPTS Again? Earl Of Spencer Claims He Was GASLIT | WATCH

Princess Dianas younger brother 9th Earl of Spencer, Charles Spencer has reignited a long-running dispute surrounding Dianas funeral and his recollection of an alleged conversation involving King Charles. While promoting his new memoir, Spencer accused the King of gaslighting him and sharply criticized Buckingham Palaces response. His comments have renewed attention on Dianas death, the royal family and the events surrounding her 1997 funeral. Heres what Earl Spencer said, what triggered the latest dispute and why it is making headlines.

The Times of India 21 Sep 2026 2:46 am

Japanese Mindset: 'Danshari'- The Japanese philosophy that teaches you to let go of clutter, attachment and the things you no longer need

Danshari offers a Japanese approach to decluttering and attachment. It involves refusing new items and discarding what is no longer needed. This practice psychologically separates individuals from their possessions. Living with fewer things creates greater physical and psychological freedom. Danshari teaches that letting go fosters intentional living and less attachment.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 2:21 am

India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Maritime Partnership with SLINEX-26 Exercise

India and Sri Lanka reaffirm their maritime partnership with the SLINEX-26 exercise in Visakhapatnam, enhancing cooperation in the Indian Ocean. India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Maritime Partnership with SLINEX-26 Exercise

Daily Kiran 21 Sep 2026 1:58 am

Tiny beach-dwelling crustaceans are big-time sand movers, shaping the California coast

Stand on the damp sand on a California beach and chances are you

Phys.org 21 Sep 2026 1:50 am

Far left wins Berlin, far right in another state polls; Merz calls result 'disaster'

Far left wins Berlin, far right in another state polls; Merz calls result 'disaster'

India Today 21 Sep 2026 1:47 am

India Inc, individuals could soon get to settle fund diversion cases

India's Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is considering a novel approach to address fund siphoning cases. Offenders would return misappropriated funds along with interest, while also disclosing relevant details. This initiative aims to create a more realistic enforcement structure. The proposals, including a new mutual fund-specific category for portfolio management services, will be deliberated on September 24.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 1:20 am

Mourinho prints out 'red card' incidents after Real lose derby

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho prints out screenshots displaying two incidents he believes should have resulted in Atletico Madrid dismissals.

BBC 21 Sep 2026 1:14 am

Neville calls Man Utd 'pathetic' - but Carrick maintains belief

Pathetic Manchester United? Michael Carrick says not, but knows improvement is required to prove his old team-mate Gary Neville wrong.

BBC 21 Sep 2026 1:14 am

Missing measure in Indias magnet mission

The strategic question is not simply whether India possesses rare-earth resources or whether imports from China can be reduced. The real policy challenge is understanding what happens in between

The Hindu 21 Sep 2026 12:50 am

Akram slams Babar Azam: 'Were you there to sell chickpeas?'

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has strongly criticised current skipper Babar Azam following Pakistan's disastrous Test series against England. Akram questioned Babar's awareness of team changes and suggested he should not have taken on the captaincy again, especially after the team's poor performance and subsequent sanctions.

Rediff 21 Sep 2026 12:50 am

Ed Sheeran calls Gaza situation 'unjustifiable' after Macklemore tour controversy

Pop star Ed Sheeran called the situation in Gaza catastrophic and unjustifiable during a Philadelphia concert, breaking his silence on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His remarks came after criticism over the removal of opening act Macklemore from his tour following the rapper's pro-Palestinian comments. Four other supporting acts later withdrew from the tour, citing their support for Palestinians.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 12:49 am

Goa's property boom hits a realty check

Goa's real estate market is stabilizing after a significant boom period. Sales and enquiries for second homes have slowed considerably over the past year. North Goa experienced a price correction, while smart capital moves to emerging pockets. Established developers are strengthening their position as buyers seek reliable track records. South Goa is increasingly recognized for its peaceful coastal living and refined lifestyle.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 12:48 am

German Chancellor Merz's party faces fresh setback in state elections

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) faced heavy losses in two state elections, according to exit polls, adding to pressure on the leader as he struggles to revive the economy and contain the far-right AfD's rise. The AfD made gains in both states, while the CDU was projected to record its worst-ever result in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania since World War II.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 12:44 am

'FCNR haul to power HSBC's India wealth, retail banking push'

HSBC forecasts that foreign currency deposits will significantly enhance its operations in India. By securing $14.5 billion through a special RBI swap facility, the bank aims to expand lending and wealth management services. The attractive leverage option of up to nineteen times has drawn in depositors. HSBC's strategy is to deploy these funds cautiously toward corporate lending and mortgage offerings.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 12:41 am

Reject US tariffs, put trade deal on hold: Congress' Anand Sharma to Govt

Congress has urged the Centre to put the proposed India-US trade deal on hold until tariff issues are resolved. Former commerce minister Anand Sharma criticised US President Donald Trumps move to impose 100% tariffs on countries buying Russian oil, including India, calling it discriminatory and a threat to India's energy security.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 12:36 am

Denmark says US military deal won't compromise Greenland sovereignty

Denmark and the United States have reached an agreement concerning Greenland. This deal will significantly expand the US military presence on the Arctic island. Denmark stated its sovereignty over Greenland will not be compromised by this agreement. The pact aims to prevent US adversaries from establishing bases in the territory. Key details regarding the buildup scale remain undisclosed by the parties.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 12:35 am

Sister of Pakistan's ex-PM Imran Khan arrested

Aleema Khanum is accused of mobilising her brothers supporters ahead of country-wide protests.

BBC 21 Sep 2026 12:34 am

How firelight may have shaped the origins of spoken language

When asked about the greatest innovation of humans, people often say language or fire. A new paper suggests these innovations may be more interlinked than we previously assumed.

Phys.org 21 Sep 2026 12:30 am

ED probes TMC's 5.22 crore advance for aviation services

The Enforcement Directorate is examining advance payments made by Trinamool Congress for future aviation services. These payments total 5.22 crore and were made for services not yet availed. The agency is investigating the party's financial transactions and fund utilization through Carewell Aviation. This probe includes examining aircraft charter agreements and significant deposits made by the party. The Enforcement Directorate has also frozen six bank accounts belonging to Trinamool Congress.

The Economic Times 21 Sep 2026 12:28 am

Analysis: Fewer Fires, Same Fog: Punjab's Stubble Politics Before 2027 Polls

Months before Punjab votes for a neew government in 2027, the same arrangements will be in place. The farmers will not stop setting their fields ablaze but this year, it is likely that the administration will not challan them as this is an election year.

NDTV 21 Sep 2026 12:21 am

In a first, Japanese fighter planes operate from Indian soil

JODHPUR: Japanese fighter aircraft operating from Indian soil for the first time marks a major milestone in defence cooperation between India and Japan, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh said here on Sunday during an ongoing bilateral air exercise. The exercise, being held at Air Force Station, Jodhpur from September 9-22, involves Indian Air Force []

Kashmir Reader 21 Sep 2026 12:05 am

Salesforce sees Indian firms shift to production as enterprise AI grows

NEW DELHI: Indian companies are moving from artificial intelligence experiments to production deployments, Salesforce President and Chief Executive Officer, South Asia, Arundhati Bhattacharya, said, as the country enters a wider phase of enterprise AI adoption. Bhattacharya said India offered significant white space for growth in digital and agentic AI and that Salesforce would continue to []

Kashmir Reader 21 Sep 2026 12:04 am

Indias real rate moment, the cost of delay

The Reserve Bank of India faces a shrinking real-rate cushion as inflation rises and demand remains strong

The Hindu 21 Sep 2026 12:00 am

Venus ate its moon: How Earth

Scientists have long speculated why Venus, with a size, mass and structure similar to Earth

Phys.org 21 Sep 2026 12:00 am

'They were two clear red cards': Mourinho blames ref committee for Madrid derby defeat

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho lashed out at Spain's refereeing committee after Los Blancos lost 2-1 at Atletico Madrid on Sunday in a La Liga derby clash.

The Daily Star 20 Sep 2026 11:57 pm

1,004 cases, victims aged 4 to 82: UN's grim account of sex violence in Ukraine war

1,004 cases, victims aged 4 to 82: UN's grim account of sex violence in Ukraine war

India Today 20 Sep 2026 11:56 pm

TMC office, leaders' homes, CPI(M) martyrs' memorial vandalised in Kolkata's Jadavpur

TMC offices and residences in Jadavpur faced alleged vandalism on Saturday night. A former MLA and councillor reported their homes were ransacked by a motorcycle-borne group. A CPI(M) memorial dedicated to martyrs was also reportedly damaged in Anandapalli. The Trinamool Congress and Left parties accused BJP workers of orchestrating these attacks. However, the BJP state president rejected these allegations, citing internal TMC disputes.

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 11:55 pm

BJP seeks Rahul Gandhi's apology over comedian's mimicry of PM Modi at Indore event; Congress says it was just mimicry

The BJP has strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi for a comedy act. This performance allegedly insulted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother and included falsehoods. Party leaders are demanding a public apology from Gandhi for these remarks. The Congress defended the act as simple mimicry and nothing more. This incident has sparked a significant political controversy and debate.

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 11:52 pm

Quote of the day by Maya Angelou: 'Ive learned that I still have a lot to learn.' Life lessons from motivational quote on personal growth, true wisdom, curiosity and humility

Quote of the day by Maya Angelou, Ive learned that I still have a lot to learn, highlights humility, curiosity and personal growth. The saying suggests that learning does not end with age, education or experience. Maya Angelous words encourage people to remain open to new ideas, accept mistakes, listen to others and continue learning from everyday experiences throughout life.

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 11:51 pm

India's first indigenous long-range attack drone KAL tested at Pokhran

The vehicle-launched drone has a range of 1,000 km, endurance of up to eight hours and a 50 kg payload capacity, and is designed for precision strikes on designated targets

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 11:51 pm

Indias NGOs at a new funding crossroads

Indias non-governmental organisations must navigate shifting foreign and domestic funding sources

The Hindu 20 Sep 2026 11:51 pm

Umesh Yadav Seeks Fresh Start: Veteran India Pacer Parts Ways With Vidarbha

Senior India fast bowler Umesh Yadav has decided to part ways with Vidarbha in the ongoing domestic season and seek fresh opportunities elsewhere.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:51 pm

Trump's sons-linked US drone firm signs India deal to manufacture anti-drone systems months before Pakistan deal

An American drone firm has signed a deal with an Indian company for anti-drone systems. This agreement allows local manufacturing of their Guardian interceptor products. The US company also recently secured an order for drone systems from Pakistan. Paras Defence will manufacture and commercialize these systems exclusively in India. The US firm has connections to Donald Trump Junior and Eric Trump.

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 11:50 pm

Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Chorni' by Pavn

Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Chorni' beautifully sung by Pavn. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Pavn and beautiful lyrics are also penned by Pavn. Don't miss the chance to witness Pavn's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Chorni'. Dive into a world of musical excellence by exploring more punjabi tracks in the music videos section of punjabi ETimes. Discover the incredible vocal talents of Pavn. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Pavn, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.

The Times of India 20 Sep 2026 11:46 pm

Cunha's late strike earns Manchester United draw at Fulham

Matheus Cunha scored a late deflected goal to secure a 1-1 draw for Manchester United against Fulham in the Premier League. This result spared United a third consecutive defeat, after Lisandro Martinez's own goal had given Fulham the lead.

Rediff 20 Sep 2026 11:45 pm

Nepal's Gen Z is taking on the world's polluters over climate disasters

Nepal is seeking climate compensation from major emitters after devastating floods and glacial disasters, putting climate justice at the center of its global diplomacy

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 11:40 pm

'Resident Evil' tops box office with franchise best debut of $60 million

Zach Creggers Resident Evil is giving the North American box office a boost.

ABC News 20 Sep 2026 11:40 pm

Serious escalation: On the U.S., Russia Sanctions Act and India

The new U.S. law on Russian oil imports carries more legal weight

The Hindu 20 Sep 2026 11:40 pm

Exim Matters: Russian oil, American tariffs and Indian exporters

Exporters have adapted to tariffs and geopolitical disruptions, but thinner margins and fresh US levies could make resilience harder to sustain

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 11:39 pm

Indian Missions Host Developed India Run 2026 Across Europe

Indian missions celebrate Developed India Run 2026 in Frankfurt as part of Seva Pakwada, promoting fitness and community spirit. Indian Missions Host Developed India Run 2026 Across Europe

Daily Kiran 20 Sep 2026 11:38 pm

Manchester City Outgun Sunderland Despite Brian Brobbey's Hat-Trick, Manchester United Rescue Fulham Draw

Manchester City went top of the Premier League despite Brian Brobbey's hat-trick in a 5-3 thriller on Sunday as Matheus Cunha rescued Manchester United from another damaging defeat at Fulham.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:37 pm

Woman Entrepreneur's 'Guest House Invite' Charge Against Revanth Reddy's Aide

In her X post, entrepreneur K Shobha Reddy of Hyderabad-based Mithuna Ads made the allegation while addressing Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:35 pm

Kids take part in NER, BLWs all India painting contest

The Times of India 20 Sep 2026 11:33 pm

Journalists Pedal for Fitness as 91st Fit India 'Sundays on Cycle' Event Held in Delhi

The 91st Fit India Sundays on Cycle in New Delhi celebrated journalists

Oneindia 20 Sep 2026 11:31 pm

India must take design skills advantage: Endiya Partners' Sateesh Andra

India must leverage its growing design capabilities to build globally competitive products and strengthen its position in innovation, says Endiya Partners managing director Sateesh Andra

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 11:30 pm

Chess Olympiad: Indian Men Cruise 3-1 Against Holland; Women Shocked By Poland

Led by R Praggnanandhaa on the top board and world champion D Gukesh on the fourth, the Indian men scored an emphatic 3-1 victory over Holland.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:30 pm

Mourinho blasts refs after Atletico loss, produces 'evidence' of two red cards

Mourinho blasts refs after Atletico loss, produces 'evidence' of two red cards

India Today 20 Sep 2026 11:29 pm

Indian Mens Hockey Team Dominates Indonesia with 13-1 Victory at Asian Games

The Indian mens hockey team secured a stunning 13-1 win over Indonesia in the Asian Games, with coach Craig Fulton highlighting areas for improvement. Indian Mens Hockey Team Dominates Indonesia with 13-1 Victory at Asian Games

Daily Kiran 20 Sep 2026 11:28 pm

MSMEs' cash flow rarely moves in a straight line: FlexiLoans cofounder

FlexiLoans co-founder Ritesh Jain discusses MSME credit, regulatory changes, flexible working capital and the growing role of co-lending

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 11:28 pm

US' 100% tariff threat: India may find it difficult to cut Russian oil buys

Amid the ongoing US-India trade negotiations, Washington has often pressured New Delhi to reduce its purchases of Russian crude

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 11:27 pm

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NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:20 pm

100% US tariff a threat but Indian exporters bet on new markets

The actual impact of the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 will depend on the tariff rate, product coverage and timing of any duties, industry representatives and experts said

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 11:17 pm

German Chancellor Merz calls state election a 'disaster' for his party but vows to stay on

Exit polls show damaging losses for Merz's centre-right CDU party in the states of Berlin and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

BBC 20 Sep 2026 11:16 pm

Tata Sons row deepens as Tata Trusts challenges Chandrasekaran's five-year reappointment

Tata Sons board voted 4-1 in favour of Chandrasekaran's reappointment. Noel Tata, chairman of Tata Trusts and one of its two nominee directors on the Tata Sons board, opposed the proposal, while Venu Srinivasan supported it.

IBTimes 20 Sep 2026 11:16 pm

Hardaddy Men's Long Sleeve Collared V-Neck Ribbed Knit Casual Polo Sweater $8.99

Hardaddy Men's Long Sleeve Collared V-Neck Ribbed Knit Casual Polo Sweater $8.99

Tech Bargains 20 Sep 2026 11:10 pm

Tata Sons | 'The RBIs Order Is Clear': Harish Salve On The Listing Issue Amid Tata Boardroom Battle

The ongoing row in Tatas is not a Noel Tata versus N Chandrasekaran or even philanthropy versus going public, it is just the government putting Tata Sons on notice that they have to list themselves. This is what senior advocate Harish Salve, who is advising Chandrasekaran in the ongoing contest, had to tell NDTV today. In an exclusive interview with Editor-in-Chief and CEO Rahul Kanwal, Salve spelt it out. Asked if this was a fight over whether Chandrasekaran gets another five years or if the group is in the middle of a much larger struggle over future ownership, governance and control, Salve said Tata Trust is a 270 billion dollar empire which is a national asset. Our economy will be affected if something happens to Tata Sons, he said.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:09 pm

'La Bola Negra' wins TIFF's People Choice Award, putting it on Oscar path

La Bola Negra, the Spanish queer epic about the intertwined lives of three gay men, won the Peoples Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival on Sunday, confirming its status as a major Oscar contender

ABC News 20 Sep 2026 11:08 pm

Alfred Cooke's Final Interview: The Dogfight That Defined A Legend

The air battle fought by Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cooke over West Bengal's Kalaikunda during the 1965 India-Pakistan war is regarded as one of the most remarkable fighter engagements of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Flight Lt Cooke recorded what became his final interview three days before he died at a hospital in Delhi. In a conversation with NDTV's Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor in their podcast 'Ctrl+Alt+Defence', he gave a detailed account of the September 7, 1965 battle when he took on Pakistani Sabre jets attacking Kalaikunda airbase in West Bengal. The podcast gives an unprecedented and detailed look at the events of the day. Flight Lt Cooke shot down at least one Sabre and was officially credited with a second. He engaged a third aircraft before running out of ammunition, according to his account.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:03 pm

Japan's air chief takes sortie in Tejas, hails it as 'truly invaluable experience' | WATCH

Japanese Air Force chief General Takehiro Morita on Sunday undertook a sortie in India's indigenously developed Tejas fighter aircraft during the bilateral aerial exercise 'Veer Guardian' in Rajasthan's Jodhpur. General Morita, the Chief of Staff of...

India TV 20 Sep 2026 11:02 pm

'Won't She Feel Uncomfortable?': Photographer Calls Out Men Staring At Foreigner At Taj Mahal

While conducting a photoshoot with a female tourist, the man noticed several young men standing nearby and watching her.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:02 pm

You Can't Have A Runaway Board: Tata Trusts' Lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi

A unaway board can't take major decisions despite an active disagreement of 66 per cent of shareholders, said senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who is representing Tata Trusts in the dispute that broke out within the conglomerate over the re-appointment of N Chandrasekaran as Tata Sons' chairman. The board of Tata Sons passed a resolution to re-appoint N Chandrasekaran as the chairman last week. Noel Tata, the chairman of Tata Trusts, which owns a 66 per cent stake in the conglomerate, voted against the move, arguing that the Tata Sons chairman had decided not to seek reappointment of his own accord and the decision was announced to the public. The page has turned, he told the board in a statement.

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 11:01 pm

Not aimed at India, but meant for India: Russia sanctions law leaves New Delhi at Trump's mercy

A new US law grants President Trump significant tariff authority over oil buyers. This legislation poses potential challenges for India's energy security needs. The bill passed Congress with bipartisan support, creating uncertainty for trade relations. India will seek energy sources to meet its population's demands. The law's implications for global oil prices and trade deals are immense.

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 11:00 pm

India, EU discuss implementation of priorities under strategic partnership

India and the European Union held discussions on inter-parliamentary cooperation. High-level exchanges and shared priorities under their strategic partnership were discussed. Ambassador Pranay Verma met with Pietro Ducci for fruitful exchanges. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also held meetings with EU officials. These engagements focused on advancing trade, technology, and global matters.

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 10:59 pm

Flash flood in Kerala's Idukki kills 3; search on for others

At least three people lost their lives after a landslide hit Kerala's Kottakamboor in Vattavada, Idukki on Sunday. According to police, the death toll in the flash flood in the Chokkad River has risen to...

India TV 20 Sep 2026 10:57 pm

Bengal's industry push needs clear intent

Under BJP, West Bengal is once again debating how to put land together for industry. The debate has now acquired a distinctly technical vocabulary: acquisition, negotiated purchase and land pooling.The three mechanisms are not interchangeable. Acquisition involves compulsory purchase under a statutory framework. Negotiated purchase relies on agreement between landowner and purchaser. Land pooling allows owners to contribute land to a development scheme and receive a smaller, but serviced, and potentially more valuable plot in return. The choice, as recent policy discussions suggest, should depend on the nature of the project.Also Read: Picasso, Omega, Prithvi and Cats: A Mumbai journey through books, unexpected encounters and theatreFor Bengal, the question of land has always been inseparable from the question of industrialisation. So, the new discussion raises a more fundamental question: even if Bengal succeeds in solving the problem of industrial land, will it succeed in attracting capital? Land can be assembled through legislation, negotiation or planning. But capital can only be attracted through confidence.Excitement surrounding political change is understandable. Bengal has always regarded politics not merely as a mechanism of governance but also as a form of public entertainment. Movement of legislators from one camp to another has become a spectator sport.Also Read: Pass the buck to RBI, banks: Let the savings from digital payments fund UPI costs, not consumersCapital, however, follows a different script. It's largely indifferent to the daily theatre of politics, and far more concerned with the stability of institutions. Consider an entrepreneur planning a large investment. The questions are surprisingly simple. Not whether the government is Left, Right or Centre. Not whether ministers speak Bengali, Hindi or English. Not whether people will eat veg or non-veg food. Not whether one political camp will replace another in controlling campuses, institutions or public spaces. The real question is: will rules that exist today survive tomorrow? That confidence in the durability of institutions is what economists and investors describe as institutional credibility.It is in this context that the new government's willingness to reconsider how industrial land is assembled becomes significant. Bengal has already begun examining land pooling, industrial parks, and changes to landholding and land-utilisation rules. The government is also considering ways of making large contiguous parcels available without directly acquiring individual agricultural plots.This is important because Bengal's problem is not simply a shortage of land. It's a shortage of large, contiguous and legally usable parcels of land. Fragmented holdings, overlapping claims and restrictions on land use can make an apparently simple industrial project extraordinarily complicated.134372690Earlier attempts to create land banks from idle public sector land ran into precisely this problem: available parcels were often too small or too fragmented for large investors. Indeed, there are now signs of movement from policy to implementation. The government has cleared land for 33 industries, and that the land will be handed over before Durga Puja. This is significant. But the real test will be whether these allocations translate into timely project execution, employment and sustained private investment.Land pooling could be a useful solution. But it's not a magic wand. Bengal has laws that allow land to be reorganised for development. What matters now is whether these provisions can be implemented effectively, with clear rules on ownership, compensation, infrastructure and land use. Land pooling may bring plots together. But it cannot make ownership disputes disappear.And this is where the land question meets the question of capital. Corruption is costly. But uncertainty can be even more so. Investors can price an unofficial cost. It's much harder to price changing rules, administrative discretion and unpredictable policy.There's also a geographical reality. Large, contiguous parcels are rarely available near Bengal's major cities. So, industry may have to move farther out, where land disputes and infrastructure gaps can be greater. Industrialists, therefore, need to look beyond quick returns and become partners in building these new industrial regions with the government. Given Bengal's political history, industrialisation cannot be reduced to capitalist extraction alone. It must also create a stake for local communities.Capital has no ideology. But it has an excellent memory. Two decades ago, large sections of Bengal's political class mobilised against industrial projects in Singur and Nandigram. Today, many of those political actors either constitute an important part of the new political establishment, or have moved into entirely different political formations.One may celebrate or criticise this phenomenon. But it deserves analysis rather than outrage. The human mind, after all, is a time-variant function. Mathematics teaches us that important variables seldom remain constant. Political preferences are no exception. The objective function of a leader in opposition differs from that of the same leader in government. In electoral democracy, opposition rewards agitation, while government rewards investment; employment and revenue suddenly become governing responsibilities rather than campaign slogans.Consequently, it may be unnecessary to ask whether politicians have become different human beings. The more relevant question is whether the institutional incentives under which they operate have changed.Many of the legal instruments required for assembling industrial land already exist. Creating another set of laws, by itself, will not rebuild West Bengal's industrial land bank. What is required is an unambiguous intention to build industry rather than perform shallow politics. The Left Front came to power in 1977 with a clear intention to pursue land reform for the landless. Today, the era, ideology and people are different. Will the new industrial agenda reflect genuine intent? Or will it be merely political rhetoric?

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 10:52 pm

India, Japan Air Chiefs Fly in Tejas Formation

Veer Guardian-2026 deepens operational cooperation between India and Japan

Deccan Chronicle 20 Sep 2026 10:48 pm

'Hey Bibi, How Much More Blood?': Israelis Take To Streets, Big Demand Before October Election

Demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, with several protesters calling for political change ahead of Israels October election. Footage shows participants carrying Israeli flags and placards, including messages asking, How much more blood will be spilt? and demanding a state commission of inquiry. An installation titled Responsibility featured white fabric marked with fake blood. Protesters also raised concerns over the ongoing war, government accountability and Israels political direction. Rally participants said replacing Netanyahu alone would not address what they described as broader policy and governance issues. The demonstration comes ahead of the October 27 Knesset election, while calls for an official inquiry into the October 7 attacks remain a prominent issue among protesters.

The Times of India 20 Sep 2026 10:46 pm

Central Himalayas to take centre stage at Balen Shah's first India visit

Nepal PM likely to come in Nov, says finance minister Swarnim Wagle; reworking trade treaty also on table

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 10:46 pm

Operation Toofan: 12,111 arrested in Keralam's anti-drug drive so far: Police

Operation Toofan is making waves as Kerala Police detain 12,111 individuals in a comprehensive battle against drugs. This statewide initiative has led to 11,241 documented cases and substantial narcotics seizures. On Saturday, a swift response resulted in 198 arrests linked to 188 drug offenses. Furthermore, the operation is actively promoting awareness, having hosted over 10,000 informational classes and 804 counselling sessions, aided significantly by local schools and colleges.

The Economic Times 20 Sep 2026 10:43 pm

Mizoram Governor Highlights Engineering Opportunities in Northeast India

Mizorams Governor VK Singh emphasizes engineering innovation in Northeast India during a summit in New Delhi. Mizoram Governor Highlights Engineering Opportunities in Northeast India

Daily Kiran 20 Sep 2026 10:43 pm

PIX: Isak's lone goal takes Liverpool past Bournemouth

Alexander Isak scored the only goal, securing a 1-0 Premier League victory for Liverpool against AFC Bournemouth. Despite the win, Liverpool's attack, featuring Gakpo, Wirtz, and Barcola, struggled to create chances, managing only six shots on goal. Captain Virgil van Dijk acknowledged the team's need to improve but highlighted the importance of the three points and a clean sheet.

Rediff 20 Sep 2026 10:41 pm

Mysaa Teaser: Rashmika Mandanna's Fierce Character Is Ready To Declare War

Mysaa is scheduled to release worldwide in cinemas on November 27, 2026

NDTV 20 Sep 2026 10:40 pm

Meat of the matter: BJP's imprint on Durga Puja in West Bengal

With the state govt issuing new guidelines for Bengal's biggest festival, conversations around traditions are intensifying

Business Standard 20 Sep 2026 10:38 pm

When do I blow entire nation up?' Trump's ultimatum after Iran warns of 'decisive war'

President Trump warned Iran of serious consequences if it does not change course. He outlined options including destruction, economic collapse, or diplomacy with Iran. Iran's command stated any US attack would face retaliation without limitations. Iran relayed truce conditions to the US through Qatari mediators. Trump signaled openness to talks with Iranian President Pezeshkian.

The Times of India 20 Sep 2026 10:35 pm

Kelsey Parker welcomes baby after 'devastating' stillbirth last year

The widow of The Wanted singer Tom Parker has given birth after last year announcing the devastating loss of a stillborn baby.

BBC 20 Sep 2026 10:34 pm

Final Call for Applications: 28 Positions Open at Solar Energy Corporation of India

The Solar Energy Corporation of India has announced 28 job openings, with applications accepted until September 23. Final Call for Applications: 28 Positions Open at Solar Energy Corporation of India

Daily Kiran 20 Sep 2026 10:34 pm