India and the US are in trade talks, with India proposing zero-for-zero tariff arrangements on specific items like steel and pharmaceuticals, contingent on reciprocity and import volumes.

Mumbai traffic police conducted a major operation targeting auto and taxi drivers who were flouting traffic regulations. Over a two-week period, authorities issued more than 48,000 e-challans, with a significant number related to drivers refusing to transport passengers. Furthermore, the process of suspending licenses for nearly 29,000 drivers who refused to ply is currently underway at Regional Transport Offices.

Amid US-China trade tensions, Indian auto component manufacturers may benefit as global OEMs seek alternative suppliers due to rising tariffs on Chinese imports. While the US imposes tariffs on Indian auto parts, a potential bilateral trade agreement by 2025 could enhance India's competitive position. However, escalating trade wars and weakening US growth could pressure discretionary consumption in India.

Bengaluru was hit by severe thunderstorms Thursday evening, resulting in the tragic death of a 45-year-old autorickshaw driver due to a falling tree. The heavy rain and strong winds, reaching speeds of 35-40kmph, uprooted trees, disrupted power lines, and flooded roads across the city. Several areas experienced hailstorms, and a house collapsed near Kogilu Cross, adding to the widespread damage.

In Udupi, Hiriyadka police arrested Sandesh and Sushanth for allegedly attempting to murder Abubakkar. The accused claimed the attack was retaliation for the Bajpe murder. Abubakkar, responding to a ride request, was pursued by two men on a motorcycle near Athradi. They shouted abuse, brandished a sword, and attacked his autorickshaw. Abubakkar escaped, and a case has been registered.

EPFO is proposing to increase the auto settlement limit for its subscribers from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, pending approval by the central board of trustees. The organisation has already streamlined the claim process significantly, resulting in faster settlements and an expected record of over 6 crore settlements this year.

US President Trump has announced a 25% tariff on imported cars and components, significantly affecting US consumers and potentially inciting retaliation from the EU and Canada. Indian automakers might evade immediate impact, but the auto parts and tyre industries, particularly those with US-export dependencies, could face challenges.

The post-mortem reports of three youths from Kathua who were found dead suggest they died from trauma injuries caused by an accidental fall. There were no signs of physical assault or gunshot wounds, ruling out a terrorist attack. They were last in contact with family members before losing their way to a wedding, with alcohol found at the scene.

US companies Harley-Davidson and Tesla, despite President Trump's push for lower Indian import duties, prefer manufacturing outside the US. Harley imports its bikes from Thailand, and Tesla will ship its cars from Germany due to locational advantages and economies of scale. India's recent customs duty cuts are unlikely to change these import strategies.

Chief Minister M K Stalin has criticized the Union government for the Advocates Amendment Bill 2025, claiming it threatens the legal profession's autonomy. Although withdrawn due to protests, Stalin urges its total withdrawal and accuses BJP of undermining Tamil identity and judicial independence. He also mentioned that TNs population control work puts it at a disadvantage in the delimitation exercise, affirming rejection of the three language policy.

Former Goa MLA Lavoo Mamledar died in Karnataka's Belagavi after being assaulted by autorickshaw driver Amirsuhil Shakilsab Sanadi during a road rage incident. The altercation occurred when Mamledar's car brushed against the autorickshaw, leading to a heated argument and subsequent physical assault. Sanadi has been arrested and jailed.

Bhajan Singh Rana, an autorickshaw driver, received a surprise call from Saif Ali Khan's personal secretary and met the actor in the hospital. Rana had driven the injured actor to Lilavati Hospital after he was stabbed. Khan and his mother, Sharmila Tagore, expressed their gratitude and offered support.

PM Modi urged the auto industry to focus on eco-friendly mobility through EVs, hydrogen fuel cells, and biofuels while highlighting the role of the middle class and youth in driving car sales. At the Bharat Mobility Global Expo, he emphasized manufacturing in India for both domestic use and export, with the aim to reduce fossil fuel imports and promote sustainability.