National / The Times of India
DRDO has cleared the proposal by Safran, which already makes a variety of helicopter engines in India, as the best option for the twin-engine fifth-generation fighter called AMCA (advanced medium combat aircraft). The project, with DRDO's lab Gas Turbine Research Establishment, would cost almost $7 billion, an official said.
The order cites concerns flagged by intelligence agencies that they were found directly or indirectly affiliated with proscribed JeI and FAT. Deputy commissioners will take over management and take appropriate steps to ensure the academic career of the students is not affected in any manner, the order says. The order, issued late Friday, drew strong reactions in the Valley.
If a government employee is imprisoned for 50 hours, then he loses his job automatically, be it a driver, a clerk or a peon. But a CM, a minister, or even a PM, can enjoy staying in govt even from jail... Some time ago, we saw how files were being signed from jail and govt orders were given from jail, Modi said at a rally in Magadh University, Bodh Gaya.
The Congress party has criticized the Indian government after websites for Chinese apps TikTok and AliExpress became accessible in India, despite a previous ban. Congress accuses Prime Minister Modi of prioritizing relations with China over the sacrifices of Indian soldiers. While the TikTok website is partially accessible, the app remains banned, and AliExpress doesn't allow shopping.
India has committed nearly Rs 62,900 crore out of the Rs 65,000 crore earmarked for semiconductor manufacturing incentives, according to Electronics and IT Secretary S Krishnan. This leaves limited funding for only a few smaller projects under the 76,000 crore India Semiconductor Mission.
Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey has alerted mutual funds about rising operational risks like fraudulent redemptions, urging vigilance and swift action. Sebi is planning incentives for first-time female investors and those in B30 cities to boost financial inclusion. The regulator is also reviewing scheme categorization for clarity and simplifying regulations to ease compliance while protecting investor interests.
AAP MLAs protested outside Acharya Bhikshu Hospital, alleging BJP MLA Harish Khurana assaulted an intern doctor. They accused the hospital administration of suppressing the case under political pressure, claiming the Medical Superintendent refused to file an FIR despite a complaint signed by 42 doctors. AAP leaders warned of widespread protests if action isn't taken.
Former President Ram Nath Kovind is slated to be the chief guest at an RSS event in Nagpur on October 2, 2025, commemorating the organization's centenary. The Vijayadashami Utsav will be held at Reshimbagh, with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressing the gathering. As part of its centenary celebrations, the RSS has planned numerous programs, including Hindu Sammelans and symposiums, alongside a nationwide door-to-door outreach initiative.
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is rapidly developing infrastructure policies and essential elements for critical communication, according to Chairman A K Lahoti. Trai has recommended strengthening critical communication infrastructure to the government, including a pan-India Integrated Broadband PPDR network. Additionally, 10 MHz of paired spectrum in 700 MHz has been recommended for railway safety.
The GST Council is set to meet on September 3rd to discuss proposed GST rate rationalization. A Group of Ministers has endorsed a simplified structure with 5% and 18% slabs, potentially eliminating the 12% and 28% brackets.
Rahul Gandhi launched a strong attack on PM Modi and the BJP-led NDA government during a rally in Bhagalpur, accusing them of attempting 'vote theft' in Bihar through the Election Commission. He alleged the government's policies are destroying employment opportunities for the youth, citing issues like paper leaks and the Agniveer scheme.
Amidst opposition's inquiries about Jagdeep Dhankhar's whereabouts post-resignation, sources reveal he's engaged in yoga and table tennis. His abrupt departure, citing health reasons, has fueled speculation, drawing comparisons to past Vice Presidents who resigned early. The Election Commission has announced the Vice Presidential election for September 9.
Naukri's report indicates a strong white-collar job market in India for the latter half of 2025, with 72% of employers planning workforce expansion through new job creation. Hiring sentiment remains positive, with 94% of employers intending to recruit.
Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar are set to participate in Rahul Gandhi's 'Voter Adhikar Yatra' in Bihar. Shivakumar will join the march on Saturday and Sunday, while Siddaramaiah is scheduled to participate on August 29.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a diplomatic tour from August 29 to September 1, visiting Japan and China. In Japan, he will attend the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit, his first with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, to strengthen bilateral ties. Subsequently, he will travel to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Tianjin, engaging with other world leaders to promote regional cooperation.
India's space program reached a new milestone with the unveiling of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) model. ISRO plans to launch the first module by 2028, joining an elite group with orbital labs. The BAS-01, weighing 10 tonnes, will orbit 450 km above Earth.
US stocks experienced a slight increase as investors eagerly awaited Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's address at the Jackson Hole symposium. Treasury yields eased in anticipation of Powell's speech, while individual stocks like Ross Stores and Nio saw gains. Nvidia shares declined amid valuation concerns and discussions about a new GPU for China.
SEBI has issued a warning to investors regarding fraudulent trading schemes promoted on social media and mobile apps. These schemes falsely promise stock market access through FPIs, which is illegal for resident Indians except under specific regulations. Investors are urged to verify entity registration and use only genuine trading apps from SEBI-registered intermediaries.
India's foreign exchange reserves experienced a rise of $1.488 billion, reaching $695.106 billion during the week ending August 15, according to RBI data. This increase was primarily driven by a surge in foreign currency assets, while gold reserves saw a slight dip. These reserves act as a crucial buffer against external economic vulnerabilities.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized MK Stalin and Sonia Gandhi for dynastic politics during a BJP meeting in Tamil Nadu. He expressed confidence in the NDA forming a government in the state, highlighting alleged DMK corruption and lauding PM Modi's governance inspired by Thirukkural.
Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, is in discussions with the Trump administration regarding a potential new semiconductor for China, despite existing restrictions on advanced chip sales. The proposed B30A GPU, intended for AI data centers, would be a follow-up to the H20 but requires US government approval.
Sharad Pawar rejected Devendra Fadnavis's request to support NDA's Vice Presidential candidate CP Radhakrishnan, citing ideological differences and Radhakrishnan's alleged misuse of power as Jharkhand Governor during Hemant Soren's arrest. Pawar emphasized that his party cannot support individuals who do not uphold democratic principles. Fadnavis had sought support from Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray, highlighting Radhakrishnan's position as Maharashtra Governor.
Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha terminated two government employees, Siyad Ahmad Khan and Khurshid Ahmad Rather, for alleged terror links. Investigations revealed their involvement in smuggling arms and narcotics for Lashkar-e-Taiba. Rather, a teacher, procured and distributed weapons, while Khan, an assistant stockman, sheltered terrorists and smuggled arms across the LoC.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized the Congress-led India bloc's Vice President candidate, B. Sudershan Reddy, accusing him of supporting Naxalism through his Salwa Judum judgment. Shah claimed that this judgment delayed the end of Naxal terrorism and diminished Congress's chances in Kerala.
During its 618th meeting in Lucknow, the RBI's central board assessed the global and domestic economic situation, considering geopolitical risks and financial market trends. The board reviewed the performance of key departments, committees, and the Ombudsman Scheme. Indranil Bhattacharyya, Executive Director, was approved as an ex officio member of the Monetary Policy Committee.
The Asian Development Bank has approved a $410 million package for Pakistan's Reko Diq copper and gold mine project. This initiative aims to tap into one of the world's largest undeveloped reserves, potentially making Pakistan the fifth-largest copper source by 2028.
The Supreme Court has revised its order regarding stray dogs in Delhi-NCR, permitting the release of sterilised, immunised, and dewormed dogs back to their original locations, except for those with rabies or aggressive tendencies. The court also banned public feeding, mandating designated feeding zones, and extended the ruling nationwide, directing compliance with ABC Rules and planning a unified national policy.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren responded to the call for Bharat Ratna to be awarded to his father, Shibu Soren, acknowledging the sentiment of the House. The JMM has formally requested the state government to propose and pass a resolution recommending the honor for Shibu Soren, highlighting his contributions to the Jharkhand statehood movement, tribal rights, and social justice.
A recent HSBC report indicates that US corporations are increasingly adopting AI to offset the financial strain caused by tariffs. Analysis of S&P 500 companies reveals median cost reductions of 1.5% and productivity gains averaging 24%. AI adoption is viewed as a strategic move to modernize operations and mitigate external economic shocks, similar to changes seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bajaj Auto has ensured a sufficient supply of rare earth magnets and other crucial materials, securing production for the festive season. Demand for their Chetak electric scooter remains strong, with deliveries now underway as supplies normalize.
Jackie and Ayesha Shroff's strategic investment in Sony Entertainment Television's Indian launch proved to be a game-changing financial move. This early bet, made two decades ago, yielded substantial returns, becoming their most profitable venture. The couple's 15-year stake in Sony provided not only financial success but also invaluable insights into corporate dealmaking, shaping their future business decisions.
To achieve Viksit Bharat objectives and regulatory reforms, the government has formed two high-level committees led by Rajiv Gauba. One committee focuses on Viksit Bharat goals, while the other addresses non-financial sector regulations. These committees, including secretaries and industry leaders, will collaborate with ministerial groups led by Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, following the Prime Minister's call for next-generation reforms.
India's private sector soared to record levels in August, with the Composite PMI reaching 65.2, fueled by surging order volumes. The services sector led the charge, hitting an all-time high, while manufacturing also showed strong growth. Increased international orders and robust employment growth contributed to the positive outlook, despite rising inflation pressures and businesses remain optimistic about future market conditions.
The Supreme Court has expressed concern over the limited involvement of political parties in rectifying voter deletions during Bihar's Special Intensive Revision. Despite the Election Commission adding 85,000 new voters, only two objections were filed by political parties.
China is easing urea export restrictions, allocating 7 million tonnes more for export. India is expected to be a major recipient. This follows earlier allocations and discussions on trade arrangements including rare earth magnets and fertilizers.