Top stories
The most-read stories right now.
The Economic Times
Govt plans instant ban on manufacturing of drugs failing key quality tests
The health ministry has proposed immediate suspension of manufacturing licences for drugs that fail key quality tests to minimise public health risks. Currently, regulators must issue a show-cause notice before acting, allowing substandard medicines to remain in circulation. Under new rules, authorities can suspend licences instantly upon receiving a government analyst’s report indicating failures in critical parameters like assay, sterility, or impurities. The suspension will only be lifted after manufacturers implement corrective and preventive actions to the authority’s satisfaction.
By: Teena Thacker for The Economic Times, summarised by Farah Qureshi
Deccan Chronicle
US Strikes Iran’s Qeshm Island Even as Trump Rules Out Renewed War
The United States struck Iran's Qeshm Island, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing US officials, following explosions reported by state media. This attack is part of a series of limited, secret strikes intended to avoid signaling a renewed major military campaign. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated he is not considering striking Iran after the midterm elections and suggested a deal with Tehran remains possible.
By: Reuters for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Leela Menon
Deccan Herald
Premier League | Is it over for Michael Carrick? Manchester United slips further after loss to Bournemouth
Premier League | Is it over for Michael Carrick? Manchester United slips further after loss to Bournemouth Twenty‑time champions Manchester United suffered a 0‑3 home defeat to Bournemouth, extending their winless streak to eight games and pushing them to 16th place, just above the relegation zone. Manager Michael Carrick’s decision to drop captain Bruno Fernandes backfired, with Fernandes left on the bench while Bournemouth’s Rayan, Marcus Tavernier and Evanilson scored. Carrick’s future is now in doubt amid criticism from fans and the club’s owners.
By: DH Online for Deccan Herald, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Deccan Chronicle
Actor Ali Emotional After Wife Goes Into Surgery
Telugu actor and comedian Ali is anxious as his wife, Zubaida Ali, underwent heart surgery after a health complication. Doctors recommended the procedure, which was reportedly successful and she is now recovering. A video of Ali getting emotional in the operation theatre has circulated, touching many fans who are praying for her speedy recovery. The couple, married since 1994, have three children and are active in community initiatives.
By: DC Correspondent for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Kabir Malhotra
Deccan Chronicle
Jio’s IPO Surge Ends Tata’s Reign as Most Valuable India Group
Jio Platforms Ltd.’s blockbuster stock market debut has propelled Reliance Industries Ltd. past Tata Group to become India’s largest conglomerate by market value. Jio shares surged as much as 23% on Wednesday, valuing the digital unit at over $131 billion and pushing Reliance Group’s total market capitalization beyond 30 trillion rupees. The listing, following India’s largest IPO, also made Jio the world’s sixth-most valuable telecom firm, overtaking rival Bharti Airtel.
By: Bloomberg for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Meera Rao
Times Of India
‘Expect new dynamics’: Ukraine hopes for more support after Democrats sweep midterms
Ukraine anticipates increased financial and military support from the United States following the Democrats’ sweep of the midterm elections. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed hope for new dynamics in assistance, while President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the Democrats' gains, noting their clear support for Kyiv. With Democrats controlling both chambers of Congress from January, they aim to prioritize aid for Ukraine, potentially overcoming a veto by President Donald Trump and increasing pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
By: Pranjal Pandey for Times Of India, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
Francisco Feuillassier, Christian Borrego strike as FC Goa beat Inter Kashi to secure first win of ISL 2026-27 campaign
FC Goa secured their first win of the ISL 2026-27 campaign with a 2-1 victory over Inter Kashi FC at Balewadi Stadium. Goals from Francisco Feuillassier and Christian Borrego either side of Sumeet Passi’s strike ensured the Gaurs took all three points. Despite Inter Kashi’s early pressure and a second-half equalizer, Goa’s strong response secured the win, while Inter Kashi suffered their third defeat of the season.
By: HT Sports Desk for Hindustan Times, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Hindustan Times
'Middle East wouldn't exist today': Trump takes credit for stopping Iran's nuclear program
US President Donald Trump claimed Israel and the Middle East would not exist today if he had not stopped Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. His remarks on Truth Social follow ongoing reviews of a new Iranian proposal sent via Qatar, which demands sanctions relief and reduced US military presence. As Washington considers resuming military operations against Tehran, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth defended the campaign as historic and urged Congress to approve $350 billion in military funding.
By: Sehjal Gupta for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
Govt sets up banking committee under Suresh N Patel to chart reforms for Viksit Bharat
The Centre has formed a six-member High Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat, chaired by former Central Vigilance Commissioner Suresh N. Patel. Announced in the Union Budget 2026-27, the panel will review India's banking sector and recommend structural, regulatory, and institutional reforms to support development goals by 2047. Key focus areas include enhancing global competitiveness, assessing capital requirements for banks and NBFCs, adopting AI, and reviewing priority sector lending. The committee has six months to submit its report.
By: ET Online for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
Deccan Chronicle
Telangana HC Dismisses Firms’ CSS Pleas, Seeks Report on Godavari Safety, Hears Kaushik Reddy Petition
The Telangana High Court dismissed writ petitions by major firms like Dr. Reddy's and Apollo Hospitals challenging TGSPDCL's demand for cross subsidy surcharge dues, ruling that government orders from 1997 and 1998 do not grant statutory exemption. Separately, the court directed the state government to outline steps to prevent drowning incidents at the Godavari river in Bhadrachalam. Additionally, the court heard police objections to BRS MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy's petition challenging the collection of his voice samples in a criminal case.
By: Vujjini Vamshidhar for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Leela Menon
Deccan Chronicle
Karnataka CM Holds Marathon Talks In Belagavi To Address Concerns Of Sugarcane Growers, Factory Owners
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar held marathon talks in Belagavi to resolve the ongoing sugarcane pricing dispute between growers and factory owners. He urged factory owners to bear additional financial burdens to settle the issue, while chaotic scenes erupted among farmer groups over price demands before his meeting. Shivakumar stated the government would not rush a decision without consulting the Centre, noting a Central committee visits on October 29. He appealed to farmers to allow crushing to begin and held late-night joint discussions.
By: DC Correspondent for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Leela Menon
The Hindu
7,000 kg of unhygienic, foul-smelling khoya seized, destroyed: Delhi CMO
The Delhi government’s Food Safety Department seized and destroyed approximately 7,000 kg of unhygienic and foul-smelling khoya during an inspection at Mori Gate Khoya Market. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta affirmed that strict action would be taken against those involved in food adulteration to ensure public safety during the festive season. Preliminary tests revealed that 35 out of 44 samples failed, with traces of milk powder, vanaspati, and binding substances found, prompting further laboratory investigation.
By: The Hindu Bureau for The Hindu, summarised by Farah Qureshi
Mint
Apax co-CEO bets on India’s AI strengths, eyes faster investment
Apax Partners co-CEO Mitch Truwit expressed confidence in India’s artificial intelligence capabilities, citing the country's strength in operationalizing AI and managing change. Marking two decades in India, the firm plans to accelerate its investment pace, having delivered $10 billion in value with over 25% IRR. Despite short-term headwinds like currency depreciation, Apax views India as a top market. The firm, investing from a global $12 billion fund, targets technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors, aiming to deploy around 10% of new capital locally.
By: Sneha Shah for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
Deccan Chronicle
Murder Accused On Bail Held In Punjab After 2 Years By TN Cops
Korattur police from Avadi commissionerate tracked and arrested Mohammad Irfan, a Bihar‑born construction labourer accused of murdering Swamidoss in 2017. After being granted bail in 2018, Irfan absconded until 2023, when he was re‑arrested. He received bail again in 2024 but failed to appear for further inquiries. Following a court‑issued arrest warrant, a team led by Inspector J. George Miller searched Punjab, Delhi and Bihar, finally apprehending him in Punjab and returning him to Tamil Nadu with a transit warrant.
By: DC Correspondent for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Deccan Chronicle
PMK For 2.5% Quota For Govt-Aided Schools In Medical Admission
PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss urged the Tamil Nadu government to implement a 2.5% reservation for students from government-aided schools in medical admissions. He argued that these students share similar socio-economic backgrounds with those in government schools, who already receive a 7.5% quota. Ramadoss noted that aided schools often serve areas lacking government institutions and that their students also lack access to expensive NEET coaching, necessitating this extension of social justice.
By: DC Correspondent for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Farah Qureshi
The Hindu
MVD’s ‘Operation Night Hunt’ nets 60 violators, ₹2.74 lakh in fines in Kochi
The Motor Vehicles Department in Ernakulam booked 60 vehicles and collected ₹2.74 lakh in fines during 'Operation Night Hunt,' a night-long drive targeting illegal modifications and noise pollution. Four squads inspected over 100 vehicles across key city areas, registering cases for modified silencers, helmetless riding, and other violations. The crackdown follows complaints about noisy vehicles disturbing residents and recent fatal crashes involving speeding. Officials warned that strict enforcement would continue to ensure road safety and public peace.
By: The Hindu Bureau for The Hindu, summarised by Leela Menon
Deccan Chronicle
Karnataka's Support During Cyclone Murasu Will Never Be Forgotten: AP CM Naidu
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu thanked Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and the state's residents for their support during Cyclone Murasu, stating their timely assistance would never be forgotten. The cyclone crossed the southern coastline between 03:30 AM and 05:30 AM, moving north-northwestwards at 8 kmph. Authorities advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until November 4.
By: DC Correspondent for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
YouTuber Jack Doherty sued for allegedly urging bodyguard to fight for livestream content
YouTuber Jack Doherty, 23, is sued by Chase Cameron Gardella for allegedly encouraging bodyguard Justin "Kane Kongg" Goslee to assault Gardella at an October 2023 party to produce livestream content. Gardella claims the pair reviewed footage of Goslee’s prior violent act, prompting instructions to attack Gardella. The lawsuit names Doherty’s companies, Goslee and his firm, and alleges assault, battery, negligence, and other claims, seeking punitive damages. Trial is set for March 29, 2027, while Doherty’s lawyers request to withdraw from the case.
By: Shweta Kukreti for Hindustan Times, summarised by Kabir Malhotra
The Economic Times
FM Sitharaman acknowledges foreign investor anxiety, says she will consider voices seeking tax changes before Budget
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman acknowledged rising anxiety among retail investors and market participants amid net foreign outflows, indicating she will consider calls for tax changes before the upcoming Budget. Speaking at the Financial Express Leadership Awards 2026, she noted that while tax structures remained unchanged during record inflows, current challenges require attention. Sitharaman emphasized the need for capital to sustain over 7% growth and recognized the necessity of supporting equity markets, though she refrained from specifying potential policy shifts.
By: ET Online for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
The Hindu
Indices end nearly 2% higher on Monday, RIL posts best gains since 2020
Benchmark indices surged for a third consecutive session, with the Sensex rising 1,233 points and the Nifty 50 gaining 387.70 points to close 1.7% higher. Reliance Industries led the rally, jumping 11.6% to a six-year high after reporting a 32% increase in Q2 profit. Strong corporate earnings and broad-based buying across sectors like energy and metals boosted investor sentiment, while a decline in crude prices following progress in Iran-US peace talks further supported the positive momentum.
By: Gowri Lakshmi for The Hindu, summarised by Meera Rao
Times Of India
Andhra chainsaw attack: Accused loses right leg; schoolgirl taken off ventilator
The 21-year-old accused in the Andhra Pradesh chainsaw attack case has undergone an emergency amputation of his right leg above the knee after bullet wounds caused gangrene. Hemanth was injured when police opened fire during his arrest attempt in the Atmakur forest. Meanwhile, the Class 10 victim, who was assaulted at her school in Anantapur, has been taken off ventilator support at a Bengaluru hospital. Doctors report she is stable, responding to treatment, and accepting nourishment via a nasal tube.
By: Sandeep Raghavan for Times Of India, summarised by Leela Menon
Deccan Chronicle
Doctors Urge TG SAFE To Curb Sale Of Painkillers, Antibiotics Without Prescriptions
The Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association in Telangana has urged TG SAFE to enforce prescription requirements for painkillers and antibiotics to prevent unauthorised sales. Citing a CDSCO circular, the association warned that indiscriminate use of NSAIDs can cause kidney injury, while inappropriate antibiotic use drives antimicrobial resistance. HRDA called for regular pharmacy inspections, strict action against violators, proper record-keeping for Schedule H1 medicines, and public notices about the risks of self-medication.
By: DC Correspondent for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Farah Qureshi
Deccan Chronicle
AP Municipal Elections: 37.13 pc Polling Recorded At 1 pm
Polling for urban local bodies is proceeding peacefully in Andhra Pradesh, with officials recording an average turnout of 37.13 per cent across the state by 1 pm. Kanigiri municipality reported the highest participation at 61.85 per cent, while among municipal corporations, Vijayawada led with 36.40 per cent. Other major cities like Anantapur, Tirupati, Kadapa, and Visakhapatnam recorded turnouts ranging between 27.55 per cent and 32.60 per cent.
By: DC Web Desk for Deccan Chronicle, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
GST officers must prove intent to evade tax before invoking fraud provision: CBIC
GST officers cannot invoke provisions for fraud, wilful misstatement, or suppression of facts solely due to unpaid tax, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs stated. Specific evidence of intent to evade tax is required to use Sections 74(1) and 74A(5)(ii) of the CGST Act. These measures cannot be applied automatically during scrutiny. The circular follows the GST Council's decision to decriminalise provisions and raise prosecution thresholds, with legal changes needing parliamentary approval from April 1.
By: ET Online for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
The Economic Times
F&O Talk: Big break above 23,200 can open doors for 23,500 for Nifty; Sudeep Shah picks 6 stocks ahead of Diwali
Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended the week positively, gaining up to 0.5%, while broader markets faced sharp sell-offs. Analyst Sudeep Shah of SBI Securities suggests Nifty could extend its recovery if it holds above 22,800, with a breakout above 23,200 potentially opening doors for 23,500. He identifies Nifty IT, Pharma, and Healthcare as likely outperformers. Shah recommends TVS Motors, Coforge, HCL Tech, Tech Mahindra, ICICI Bank, and Gland Pharma as top stock picks ahead of Diwali.
By: Veer Sharma for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
Hindustan Times
Trump Jokes About Iran Dropping Bombs as Noise Interrupts His Remarks | Tehran Tensions
US President Donald Trump joked about whether Iran was dropping bombs after loud noises interrupted his remarks. He speculated that the sounds might be from excavation, demolition, or bombs, though the source remained unclear. The incident occurs amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme and broader conflicts. His comments highlight the uncertainty surrounding current developments between the two nations as their confrontation continues.
By: hindustantimes.com, Hindustan Times for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
3 Kukis shot dead in Manipur gunfight
Three Kuki men were killed in a fresh gunfight between unidentified armed groups in Manipur’s Noney district, police said on Saturday. The Kuki Inpi Manipur accused Naga groups of responsibility, while security forces recovered weapons from the site. Simultaneously, thousands of Meitei and Naga community members rallied in Imphal, demanding the scrapping of the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki-Zo armed groups and greater protection for local communities amid ongoing ethnic violence.
By: Thomas Ngangom for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
US Midterms Texas results: Democrat Gina Hinojosa elected first Latina governor in state, ousts Republican incumbent Greg Abbott
Democrat Gina Hinojosa scored a stunning upset victory in the Texas gubernatorial election, unseating Republican incumbent Greg Abbott to become the state’s first Latina governor. This marks the first time a Democrat has held the office since Ann Richards in the 1990s. Despite Abbott spending $180 million and lacking significant national support, Hinojosa ran a populist campaign focusing on economic issues and opposing data centers. Her win validates Democratic hopes that demographic shifts are altering the state’s political landscape.
By: Staff for The Economic Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Times Of India
‘I don’t think perfection exists’: Asiad medallist Kynan's unfinished Olympic pursuit
Asian Games gold medallist Kynan Chenai recalls the intense focus required to win the mixed-team trap event with Neeru Dhanda, describing the experience as giving him goosebumps. After a disappointing individual finish, Chenai flipped the switch to secure gold, even using his father’s 38-year-old gun barrel. Now targeting the Olympics, he emphasizes consistency over perfection and credits improved infrastructure for helping Indian shooters train daily and compete at the highest level.
By: Vineet Ramakrishnan for Times Of India, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Mint
Narayana Murthy once wanted to work at Wipro. Why did Azim Premji turn him down? Here’s the story
Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy once applied for a job at Wipro in 1979, but Azim Premji rejected him. Premji later described the decision as one of his biggest mistakes, admitting he found Murthy "too high powered" and potentially threatening for the then-small company. Murthy recalled that Premji simply never called him back. Following the rejection, Murthy founded Infosys in 1981, which now holds a significantly higher market valuation than Wipro.
By: Sayantani Biswas for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
Mint
Audi to invest $4.2 billion in first US factory, plans to build 2 lakh SUVs annually
Audi announced a $4.2 billion investment to build its first U.S. plant near Macon, Georgia, capable of producing 200,000 premium SUVs annually and creating about 4,500 jobs. The facility, slated to start construction in 2027 and begin production in the early 2030s, will assemble Q7, Q8 and Q9 models, marking Audi’s long‑term commitment to the American market. The move follows U.S. tariffs that have spurred foreign automakers to increase domestic production amid trade‑policy debates ahead of the midterm elections.
By: Pragya Singha Roy for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
The Economic Times
Amazon unveils new lineup of Alexa devices including redesigned Echo Show
Amazon unveiled five new Alexa-powered devices, including a redesigned Echo Show 16 with a 16-inch screen and night vision camera, and an Alexa Photo Frame. The lineup also features an Echo Studio speaker with object recognition, an Echo Dot with a smart home hub, and the Echo Time bedside clock with sleep-sensing technology. These releases come as Amazon faces increasing competition from Apple and AI firms like OpenAI entering the hardware market.
By: Staff for The Economic Times, summarised by Dev Iyer
Mint
US midterm election results: Democrats clinch huge wins on inflation anger, Trump fatigue
Democrats secured a sweeping victory in the US midterm elections, seizing control of both the House and Senate amid voter anger over inflation and the war in Iran. The results represent a stunning rebuke of President Donald Trump, with the party flipping seats in Republican strongholds like Texas and Kansas. This seismic shift ends full Republican rule in Washington, leaving Trump politically hemmed in as Democrats prepare to prioritize affordability issues and oversight of the administration.
By: list.metadata.agency for Mint, summarised by Leela Menon
Mint
WPL 2027 complete schedule: RCB vs MI in opener - Full list of matches, venue, time in IST, & final squads of teams
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Mumbai Indians in the Women's Premier League 2027 opener on January 14. The tournament will be held across Vadodara and Mumbai, with the BCA Stadium hosting the first leg and Brabourne Stadium staging the second leg, including the Eliminator and final on February 7. All matches begin at 7:30 PM IST. The BCCI also released the full squads for all five franchises participating in the lucrative competition.
By: Koushik Paul for Mint, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Hindustan Times
Data centre will not exhaust Ujani’s water: Sharad Pawar
NCP (SP) supremo Sharad Pawar stated that the proposed AI data centre near Ujani dam does not necessarily mean water resources will be exhausted, emphasizing careful usage. He refrained from directly opposing the project, unlike his grandson Rohit Pawar who led protests against it. Pawar also announced his family would skip Diwali celebrations due to severe drought in Maharashtra, highlighting urgent needs for water, fodder, and employment in affected districts like Solapur.
By: Shrinivas Deshpande for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Times Of India
JD(U) expels Anant Singh for 6 years over 'anti-party activities'
JD(U) has expelled Mokama MLA Anant Kumar Singh and his wife Neelam Devi for six years, cancelling their memberships amid accusations of gross indiscipline and anti‑party activities. State president Umesh Singh Kushwaha cited Singh’s active campaigning against the party’s official candidate Neeraj Kumar in the recent Bihar Legislative Council elections, supporting Jan Suraaj’s Anuj Singh instead. The party also seeks Singh’s disqualification from the state assembly under the Tenth Schedule, citing repeated disobedience and insulting language toward leadership.
By: Madan Kumar for Times Of India, summarised by Leela Menon
Mint
India steps up public investment push as external risks mount
India is intensifying its capital expenditure push to sustain economic growth amid rising external risks like elevated energy prices and global trade uncertainty. The finance ministry has directed all government departments to prioritize meeting annual capex targets to prevent economic slowdown and encourage private investment. While spending slowed recently, officials emphasized maintaining fiscal prudence. The Centre is also accelerating tax devolution to states to boost their capital spending, with public investment remaining a key driver of India’s economic recovery.
By: Banikinkar Pattanayak for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
Deccan Herald
Delhi world’s most polluted major city on eve of Diwali, Swiss group says
Delhi was the world’s most polluted major city on Saturday morning according to Swiss group IQAir, recording a US air quality index reading of 581. This severe pollution comes ahead of Diwali, a festival marked by firecrackers that typically worsen air quality. Authorities have ordered schools to switch to online classes and encouraged remote work. While India’s official Central Pollution Control Board recorded a lower figure of 363, local media reported Friday’s air quality was the worst pre-Diwali level in eight years.
By: Staff for Deccan Herald, summarised by Farah Qureshi
Times Of India
$6.3bn gone, N Korea link: Inside crypto heist at world's largest exchange Binance
Hackers stole approximately $6.36 billion in cryptocurrency from Binance, the world’s largest exchange, in what investigators describe as the biggest crypto heist on record. Blockchain analysis firms attributed the attack to North Korea’s elite hacking unit, noting funds moved across 10 blockchains in about 20 minutes. Binance CEO Richard Teng stated the attack was complex and that no private key leak was found. The exchange pledged to cover all losses using its SAFU fund, ensuring user funds remain safe.
By: Trisha Mahajan for Times Of India, summarised by Meera Rao
Hindustan Times
UPPCB seeks ₹10 lakh penalty on Noida developer over Grap violations
The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board has recommended an environmental compensation of ₹10 lakh against a developer in Noida’s Sector 134 for violating dust-control norms during GRAP Stage-I restrictions. An inspection on October 28 found missing green nets, water sprinklers, and tyre-washing facilities at the Jaypee Greens Wishtown site. Excavated soil and materials were stored in the open without wind-breaking walls. The recommendation follows a resident’s complaint and has been forwarded to the district magistrate and Noida Authority.
By: Maria Khan for Hindustan Times, summarised by Anaya Sen
The Hindu
Supreme Court seeks Goa’s response on Tarun Tejpal’s appeal against rape case conviction
The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the State of Goa on former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal’s appeal challenging his conviction and 10-year sentence in a 2013 rape case. A Bench headed by Justice M.M. Sundresh heard the matter, with Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal seeking a reversal of the conviction. Tejpal has already surrendered following the court’s earlier directive. The state government has also filed a separate appeal seeking enhancement of his punishment to life imprisonment, arguing the current sentence is inadequate.
By: The Hindu Bureau for The Hindu, summarised by Leela Menon
The Economic Times
US midterm elections 2026 Donald Trump approval ratings: All surveys polls combined results for US president are out ahead of November 3 polling day
With the US midterm elections five days away, Donald Trump’s approval ratings range between 32 and 40 percent according to major national polls. While support remains strong among Republicans at 70 to 77 percent, surveys indicate he is losing ground among key voter demographics. White evangelical Christians remain his most reliable constituency, though support has slipped to 63 percent. High turnout from this group could be crucial for Republicans to limit potential congressional losses driven by voter frustration over economic issues and foreign policy.
By: Debjit Sinha for The Economic Times, summarised by Leela Menon
Times Of India
Joe Burrow’s $7.5 million Ohio mansion remains a standout purchase
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow purchased a $7.5 million estate in Anderson Township, Ohio, in summer 2023, marking the most expensive home sale in Hamilton County that year. The 7,300-square-foot property on three acres offers privacy and river views, reflecting a restrained investment compared to typical athlete spending. Despite a burglary in December 2024, the purchase remains a smart financial and lifestyle decision, providing Burrow a quiet retreat close to the stadium and signaling his long-term commitment to the region.
By: Global Sports Desk for Times Of India, summarised by Aravind Ghosh
Mint
Asian Paints treads carefully on price hikes as raw material costs squeeze margins
Asian Paints faces a delicate pricing dilemma as raw material inflation squeezes margins, forcing the company to balance passing costs to consumers against risking demand for discretionary painting expenses. Managing Director Amit Syngle indicated that passing on the full impact is unreasonable, leading to a calibrated approach with recent price hikes of 7%, 5%, and 3.5%. Consequently, Q2FY27 net profit rose 7.5% to ₹1,067.63 crore, missing estimates, while operating margins contracted 202 basis points despite double-digit revenue growth.
By: Dipali Banka for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
The Hindu
Jharkhand tribal leader dies by suicide minutes after Facebook live; alleges harassment by Soren govt., land brokers
Tribal leader and social activist Nisha Kumari Bhagat allegedly died by suicide in Jharkhand’s Ranchi shortly after a Facebook Live session. In the broadcast, she accused Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s government, the police, and land mafia of harassing her for exposing their shortcomings. Bhagat, a former Assembly candidate from Gumla, claimed she was falsely labeled a political broker while fighting for tribal land rights. Police rushed her to RIMS, where doctors declared her brought dead. Opposition leader Babulal Marandi demanded a CBI probe and CM Soren’s resignation.
By: Amit Bhelari for The Hindu, summarised by Leela Menon
Mint
US green card alert: White House clears key stage for PERM overhaul, but details remain under wraps
The White House has completed its review of a proposal to overhaul the PERM process, a key step in sponsoring foreign workers for US employment-based green cards. The Department of Labor aims to update recruitment standards, strengthen rules regarding US worker layoffs, and enhance compliance, marking the first significant changes since 2004. This move follows increased scrutiny and suspensions of PERM programs for major tech employers. The specific provisions will become clear once the proposed rule is published for public comment.
By: Ravi Hari for Mint, summarised by Meera Rao
The Economic Times
HCC Q2 profit slumps 53% to Rs 22 crore
Hindustan Construction Company reported a 52.78% decline in consolidated net profit to Rs 22.56 crore for the September quarter FY27, down from Rs 47.78 crore a year ago. Income fell to Rs 925.15 crore while expenses dropped to Rs 889.98 crore. Despite the slump, HCC secured a Rs 524 crore order and emerged as the lowest bidder for projects worth Rs 2,010 crore. The firm also appointed Vivek Singhal as Chief Executive Officer, effective November 5, 2026.
By: Staff for The Economic Times, summarised by Meera Rao
The Hindu
Traffic ban to continue in Munnar after another landslip on Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway
Traffic ban on the Adimaly–Munnar stretch of the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway has been extended for two more weeks after a second landslip at Karadippara. The incident followed earlier rockfall during widening work, damaging a retaining wall. NHAI is clearing debris and rebuilding the wall, but loose rock continues to fall, making traffic unsafe. Motorists must use alternative routes via Iruttukanam, Anachal, and Randammile until the ban lifts.
By: The Hindu Bureau for The Hindu, summarised by Leela Menon
Hindustan Times
'Manipur cannot achieve lasting peace as long as a gun culture exists,' says CM Khemchand
Manipur Chief Minister Khemchand Singh praised the CRPF’s CoBRA unit for its role in seizing a Kuki militant camp after the killing of three Meitei firewood collectors. He urged civilians to abandon violence and surrender illegal arms, arguing lasting peace requires ending a gun culture. The CM’s visit marked the first by a sitting chief minister to a designated camp under the Suspension of Operations pact, which governs 25 Kuki outfits. He met security officials and local groups, stressing protection of lives and property.
By: Thomas Ngangom for Hindustan Times, summarised by Leela Menon
India Today
Saudi-led airstrikes kill 14 at Yemen market as Houthis tighten Taiz siege
Saudi-led airstrikes killed 14 people, including children, at a market in northern Yemen, while Iran-backed Houthi rebels tightened their siege of Taiz and fired ballistic missiles at Aden airport. Yemeni officials sought international support as the city faced water shortages and intensified fighting. Separately, Israeli strikes in Gaza killed at least four people, and a police officer fatally shot a knife-wielding attacker outside the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade in an incident described as a terrorist attack.
By: India Today World Desk for India Today, summarised by Leela Menon