Global brokerage Jefferies forecasts a double-digit compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for India's defence spending, estimating a cumulative domestic opportunity of over $60 billion across four years, driven by geopolitical tensions and the government's indigenisation push.
From Kareena Kapoor Khan's 'cop who wears lipstick' in Daayra to Rani Mukerji's relentless Shivani Shivaji Rao in the Mardaani series, Bollywood has seen a rise in powerful and nuanced portrayals of female police officers tackling brutal crimes and societal challenges.
Veteran spinner Imran Tahir, at 47, attributes his continued success and record-breaking five-wicket haul in the Caribbean Premier League to the motivation provided by his son, who encourages him to play 'one more year'.
Tennis star Coco Gauff and her mother are speaking out against acquaintances who only resurface to ask for free tickets to the US Open. Gauff revealed that her mother's recent Instagram post, which bluntly told friends and family to stop asking for tickets, was a much-needed intervention after years of absurd requests, particularly during the New York tournament.
Smallcap funds topped the net inflow chart for the second consecutive month, as investors poured record Rs 7,973 crore into one of the best-performing MF categories.
Seven-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz has spoken about the "intrusive thoughts" he experienced during his nearly five-month layoff due to a wrist injury. Ahead of his U.S. Open title defence, the Spaniard revealed the mental challenges of not knowing his return date, especially after missing major tournaments. He is now set to compete, though his rival Jannik Sinner has withdrawn.
India's proposal to link BRICS payment systems, including central-bank digital currencies (CBDCs), was notably absent from the grouping's New Delhi Declaration, despite being a key agenda item for India's chairmanship. This omission leaves the 16-year effort for trade in local currencies without a settled payment architecture, with the declaration only 'acknowledging' the work of the BRICS Payment Task Force.
Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, opened higher on Monday, driven by strong buying in blue-chip stocks like HDFC Bank and Infosys, despite persistent geopolitical tensions and elevated crude oil prices.
India's venture capital deal value grew by a modest 5 per cent in the first seven months of the year, significantly lagging the global average surge of 161 per cent, reflecting continued investor caution and valuation discipline.
The benchmark Sensex plummeted 813 points to a three-month low, with the Nifty settling below 23,450, as escalating tensions in West Asia drove crude oil prices above USD 100 per barrel, leading to widespread selling in IT, FMCG, financial services, and oil & gas shares.
It is important to understand that the rupee's appreciation, driven by the 2013 special swap scheme, reduced India's import costs for petroleum, oil, and gold, points out Dr Ashwani Mahajan, National Co-Convenor, Swadeshi Jagaran Manch.
'If crude remains above $100 per barrel, with restricted retail-price increases, OMCs could face negative petrol and diesel marketing margins, higher LPG under-recoveries, higher crude-landing, freight and insurance costs, working capital and debt accumulation and inventory losses if crude subsequently corrects sharply.'
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has issued a public health advisory on the seasonal surge in Influenza A (H1N1), or swine flu, urging people not to self-medicate with antibiotics and antivirals and advising immediate medical attention for severe symptoms.
A senior Geological Survey of India official warns that the Himalayas are vulnerable to cascading disasters, where one high-altitude event can trigger a chain of destructive events downstream, as evidenced by Nepal's recent floods. He stresses the need for integrated monitoring using satellite data and ground investigations to identify high-risk areas and improve preparedness in the Indian Himalayas.
Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, experienced declines in early trade due to elevated crude oil prices and persistent geopolitical uncertainties, particularly following the expiry of the US-Iran ceasefire. Track Sensex, Nifty on August 19, 2026.
Analysts predict that developments in the West Asia conflict, crude oil prices, and upcoming US inflation data will be the primary factors influencing the Indian stock market next week, alongside foreign investor activity and global market trends.
The Indian junior men's hockey team secured a 3-3 draw against Japan in their second Pool A match of the Junior Asia Cup. India initially led 2-0, but Japan fought back to take a 3-2 lead in the final minute before India equalised with a penalty corner in the dying seconds.
US President Donald Trump is expected to sign the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 later on Friday (local time). A White House official confirmed the development to ANI without revealing further details.
Champions Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Sunderland, maintaining their perfect start to the Premier League season and moving clear at the top. Meanwhile, title contenders Liverpool and Chelsea were held to draws against Fulham and Hull City respectively. Other notable results include Aston Villa's loss to Nottingham Forest, Ipswich's win against Crystal Palace, and Tottenham's continued struggle to score goals.
Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, continued their downward trend for the fifth consecutive day, with the Sensex dropping 281 points and Nifty falling 78 points, primarily driven by surging crude oil prices and persistent geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
India has dispatched a fresh tranche of 35 tonnes of humanitarian aid to flood-ravaged Nepal, marking the eighth special flight since devastating flash floods struck the Himalayan nation on August 26. The aid includes relief materials, specialised rescue equipment, and expert personnel, with Indian teams actively assisting in tunnel rescue operations and forensic identification of victims. The death toll has climbed to 1,365, and thousands remain missing as India reaffirms its commitment to supporting Nepal's recovery efforts.
Delhi is experiencing a significant surge in H1N1 (swine flu) cases, with over 1,777 infections reported this year, a six-fold increase from last year. Doctors highlight that children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses are most susceptible to severe infection. The rise has prompted increased inquiries about seasonal influenza vaccination, and medical experts are cautioning against self-medication and delayed consultation, urging early medical attention for severe symptoms.
Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange has agreed to take water and saline treatment but vowed to continue his indefinite fast until all demands for Maratha reservation and Kunbi certificates are met. His health is deteriorating, prompting concerns from doctors and appeals from authorities. Jarange criticised the state government and mediating ministers, alleging political infighting and a lack of serious engagement on the issue.
Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, closed lower due to persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and elevated crude oil prices, with investors remaining cautious ahead of fresh US sanctions on Iran.
Investors should cap gold allocation at 10-15 per cent and consider staggered purchases through gold ETFs.
A Manipuri musician, C Vikram Singh, was allegedly beaten to death by a group of delivery workers and dhaba staff in Delhi after he objected to their loud behaviour. The incident has led to the arrest of seven men and a juvenile. The local Northeastern community has expressed outrage, alleging that the incident highlights persistent racism and discrimination they face in the city, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into potential racist motives.
The benchmark BSE Sensex rebounded by 362 points, ending a four-day losing streak, driven by strong buying in metal, private banking, and oil and gas shares, while the broader NSE Nifty saw modest gains despite paring some advances in the closing session.
Former India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, who lost his spot in the national team after struggles with form and an inconsistent IPL season, has stated he is working hard for a comeback. The 35-year-old, a key player for Mumbai Indians, last played for India in Tests and ODIs in 2023.
'Modi had his own cricket team in his school days. He was a good cricketer.'
East Zone pacers Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar chipped away at the wickets to leave South Zone tottering on 242/6 at stumps on Day 3, of the Duleep Trophy final.
The BRICS summit in New Delhi brings together leaders from major emerging economies to address global challenges like trade disputes, geopolitical upheavals, and the economic impact of conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia. India, as chair, aims to position BRICS as an economic growth engine, focusing on the Global South's food, energy, and supply chain security. The summit also highlights the grouping's expansion and its growing influence in global governance.
India's national record holder in shot put, Tajinderpal Singh Toor, is determined to breach the 22m mark, aiming to elevate the standard for future generations of Indian shot putters, drawing inspiration from Neeraj Chopra's impact on javelin throw. Despite a history of injuries, including a recent calf tear at the Commonwealth Games, Toor is now fit and focused on achieving a hat-trick of gold medals at the upcoming continental event.
India's unincorporated non-agricultural sector, excluding construction and corporate enterprises, added approximately 7.5 million workers in a single year, reaching 128.1 million employed in 2025, according to the NSO's ASUSE 2025 report.
The Tamil Nadu assembly descended into chaos, leading to the eviction of DMK MLAs, as they vehemently protested Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's statements.
A Pakistani court has ordered the return of 21-year-old Hindu girl Shirimati Reeta to her parents after she was allegedly lured, pressured to convert to Islam, and marry a Muslim man. Reeta, who had gone missing from Sindh, was recovered by police in Punjab and stated in court her desire to return home, highlighting the ongoing issue of forced conversions among minority girls in Pakistan.
Yoga may help improve digestion and reduce bloating by relaxing the body, reducing stress, and encouraging healthy movement of the digestive system, says rediffGURU Pushpa R, founder of Radiant Yoga Vibes.
Electric commercial vehicle manufacturers in India are struggling to meet localisation requirements under the PM eDRIVE scheme, set to begin on Tuesday. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam) has requested a seven-month extension until April 1, 2027, citing disruptions in the supply of rare earth magnets due to China's export restrictions and geopolitical tensions. The government is yet to decide on the request, which aims to prevent production disruptions and allow time for local supply chain development.
The magnificent Kailasa temple stands as a testament to ancient Indian engineering and artistic brilliance, carved meticulously from a single mountain.
Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, rebounded in early trade, driven by a recovery in world markets due to easing US Treasury yields and fresh foreign fund inflows, halting a multi-day losing streak. Track Sensex, Nifty on August 20.
The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution, co-sponsored by India, to designate November 27 as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage. This global initiative aims to raise awareness and accelerate efforts to combat this harmful practice, which disproportionately affects women and girls, hindering their education, health, and overall human rights.
