A report by IIT Bombay suggests that the proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions needs rationalisation before implementation to safeguard public trust in the digital payments system, highlighting that UPI's long-term economic benefits outweigh potential incremental income from merchant fees.
IBM India and South Asia MD Sandip Patel states that technology, especially AI, should not be "artificially paused." He advocates for vigilance and proactive governance to foster innovation while addressing potential risks. Patel also highlights IBM's India-specific initiatives like Bharat Core and a sovereign AI stack, and discusses the impact of AI on jobs and global supply chains.
IBM India and South Asia MD Sandip Patel stated that India is at a defining moment with a unique opportunity to shape exponential technologies like artificial intelligence, emphasizing that "when India builds, it builds for billions," leading to scalable impact. Speaking at the IBM Think 2026 event, Patel highlighted that the AI revolution is still in its early stages, requiring enterprises to redesign their operations around agents, real-time data, automation, hybrid architecture, and trust. He also introduced the concept of "digital swaraj" or sovereignty in the Indian context, stressing the importance of control over operating environments, data, technology, and AI execution. IBM also announced an MoU with MeitY Startup Hub to accelerate India's deep tech innovation and startup ecosystem, providing startups access to IBM's technology expertise and platforms like watsonx and Sovereign Core.
Pat Cummins says Australia must learn to grind out Test results as they prepare for a tricky South Africa challenge at Kingsmead.
South African jurist Navanethem 'Navi' Pillay, of Indian origin, has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her lifelong dedication to advancing human rights, peace, and international law, including her significant contributions to shaping international law on genocide and sexual violence.
India's hockey team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, secured a dramatic 4-3 semifinal victory against Pakistan at the Asian Games, despite squandering a 3-0 lead and facing disciplinary issues. Harmanpreet emphasized the need for composure and avoiding silly mistakes against strong opponents, while Manpreet Singh highlighted the coach's advice to focus on the game, not the occasion. The team acknowledged defensive vulnerabilities but remained confident for the final.
India captain Shreyas Iyer attributed his side's stunning six-wicket defeat against the West Indies in the second T20 International to the dew factor and the almost non-existent margin for error on the pitch, despite India posting a formidable 249 for five.
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has strongly criticised Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's decision to skip the BRICS summit in India, calling it "immature" and detrimental to Bangladesh's national interest. She argued that the absence lost opportunities for economic development and that foreign policy should not be driven by personal considerations. Hasina also highlighted the current "grave national crisis" in Bangladesh and her intention to return to restore democracy.
India's head coach Khalid Jamil and left-back Akash Mishra discuss the team's short recovery time and the significant challenge posed by two-time world champions Uruguay, following their 0-4 defeat to Brazil. Despite the demanding schedule, the team remains focused on performing well in the upcoming friendly, with players acknowledging the importance of competitive football.
Former India batter Suresh Raina has lauded seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the Indian T20I side after a four-year hiatus, praising his discipline, hard work, and resilience as 'truly inspiring'.
The INDIA bloc, comprising 17 opposition parties and civil society members, met at Rahul Gandhi's residence to strategize against alleged "vote chori" and the denotification of Jantar Mantar as a protest site. Leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Tejashwi Yadav, vowed to continue their united political and people's resistance, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and asserting that those responsible for undermining democracy would be held accountable.
In this new series on busting common health concerns, Cardiologist Dr Dipak Patil explains why walking and visiting the gym may not be enough to protect your heart health.
Former teammates Gouramangi Singh and Clifford Miranda meet in opposing dugouts as FC Goa take on Chennaiyin FC at Fatorda in the ISL opener on Saturday.
Seven para-cyclists, recommended by the national federation for the Asian Para Games, were largely omitted by the Sports Ministry, with only one receiving approval. The excluded athletes are planning a protest, alleging discrimination, while the Sports Authority of India (SAI) maintains selections were based strictly on performance criteria.
The Insurance Brokers Association of India (IBAI) has warned that the IRDAI's proposed overhaul of insurance distribution practices could lead to a 70 per cent fall in revenues for intermediaries and result in 10 lakh job losses, citing concerns over the tight feedback deadline and the global uniqueness of the proposed architecture.
The Meerut district court has found Muskan Rastogi and Sahil Shukla guilty of the murder of merchant navy officer Saurabh Rajput in the 'Blue Drum' murder case. The court will announce the punishment after 15 days, with the prosecution seeking the maximum penalty for the heinous crime.
India remains one of the Hyundai Motor group's most important and strategic markets globally. The initiative positions India as a strategic core market for the group's growth, emerging market expansion, and next-generation automotive innovation.
The Meerut district court has convicted Muskan Rastogi and Sahil Shukla for the murder of merchant navy officer Saurabh Rajput in the sensational 'Blue Drum' case. The court emphasised the need for strict punishment in serious crimes, with the order on sentencing to be announced in 15 days. The prosecution presented 22 witnesses, detailing the gruesome dismemberment and concealment of Rajput's body in a cement-filled blue drum.
Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal criticised the Centre for the security clampdown in central Delhi against the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest, calling it "worse than Emergency" and alleging dictatorship. He also accused Prime Minister Modi of being scared and protecting "vote chori" by crushing democracy, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Rahul Gandhi has ignited a political storm by accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, and CEC Gyanesh Kumar of "vote chori" and "treason".
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has revealed plans to utilise explosive batter Finn Allen in a middle-order role during the upcoming ODI series against India.
Enzo Maresca, Manchester City's manager, has emphatically defended the club's achievements, rejecting any suggestion their titles were tainted by financial-rule breaches and stating the ongoing investigation would not have deterred him from taking the job.
A report by IIT-Bombay professors recommends reducing the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions from 0.40 per cent to 0.08 per cent. It suggests that banks should fund the UPI ecosystem using their net interest margins from CASA deposits, rather than relying on MDR. The report also addresses transaction costs, credit card MDR, and ATM withdrawal allowances, aiming to ensure UPI's long-term sustainability and public trust by proposing remuneration only from large merchants.
Para-shooters have accused the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and its Shooting Technical Committee (STC) of financial corruption, extortion, and manipulation in the selection process for the upcoming Para Asian Games. They allege demands for a 20% commission from cash awards and manipulation of quota places, while the PCI denies all charges, asserting a merit-based selection.
The Bombay High Court affirmed the right of students to protest alleged malpractices in MPSC examinations, stating they are not anti-social elements. The court stressed the state's duty to ensure impartial exams and asked the government to submit a roadmap within three weeks, while also urging students to return to their studies.
'Growing up in Bangladesh, I always felt that I was a piece of meat. As soon as I walked down the street, I could be the president of Bangladesh and I would still be a piece of meat because I am a woman.'
The Supreme Court has strongly asserted the critical need to instill fear in criminals and enhance women's safety across Delhi-NCR, taking suo motu cognisance of recent alarming rape incidents.
Cardiologist Dr Vivek Mahajan explains the heart attack symptoms women often mistake for acidity, stress, menopause or fatigue, and when to seek help.
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey and West Bengal Minister Indranil Khan offered their perspectives on the Indian football team's 6-1 defeat against Uruguay. Chaubey highlighted the team's strong start and confidence, suggesting rain disrupted momentum, and stressed the importance of playing top-level opposition. Khan called the match a landmark moment for Indian football exposure but also criticised political interference in West Bengal's football ecosystem.
Former Pakistan pacer Sohail Tanvir has expressed his excitement for the India-Pakistan clash in the 2027 ICC Men's ODI World Cup, emphasising the importance of quality cricket. He highlighted the immense pressure from fans in such encounters, drawing from his own experiences of thriving under pressure while playing against India, including in the IPL and on bilateral tours. The article also notes the historical head-to-head record and details of the upcoming 2027 World Cup fixture.
An investigation is underway into a flydubai co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, who allegedly attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar in an attempt to crash an Israel-bound flight. The incident, which saw the plane plummet thousands of feet before the captain regained control, is being treated as a lone-wolf terrorist act, with probes by UAE, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.
A senior Pakistan Army general has confirmed the presence of Pakistani troops in Saudi Arabia, operating in "multiple capabilities" and "domains" amidst escalating Houthi attacks. This deployment is linked to the Makkah defence pact, a trilateral agreement with Turkiye and Saudi Arabia for collective deterrence, though specific details remain classified. Both Pakistan and Turkiye emphasise the defensive nature of their involvement.
Citizens in Delhi faced significant restrictions and detentions on Saturday while attempting to protest alleged irregularities in voter rolls. Despite barricades, metro closures, and vehicle diversions, individuals found various ways to reach central Delhi, determined to voice their concerns about the electoral process and fundamental rights.
Khalid Jamil, head coach of the Indian football team, expressed optimism despite a 4-0 defeat against five-time world champions Brazil. He highlighted the high quality of the Brazilian team and the learning experience for India, emphasizing the need for more high-profile matches to improve. Jamil also defended goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and looked forward to the upcoming match against Uruguay.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced that its new Executive Council will be elected on December 5, with Sanjay Kumar Srivastava appointed as the returning officer. The electoral process, which includes elections for the Athletes' Commission on November 3 and selection of Sportspersons of Merit (SOMs), will adhere to national sports governance acts and the amended IOA Constitution. The new council will serve a four-year term (2026-2030), with current President PT Usha highlighting the importance of good governance as India eyes hosting the 2036 Olympic Games.
The Chief Electoral Officer of Uttar Pradesh has strongly denied media reports alleging irregularities in the addition of 16.18 lakh voters during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The CEO asserted that the process was conducted with "utmost transparency" and in strict adherence to electoral laws and ECI instructions, clarifying the collection and processing of Form-6 applications.
'People started fearing Nana Patekar's frankness. Kuchh bhi bol sakta hai yeh. He once pointed to a major respected politician's belly and asked 'Kya hai yeh?''
India's head coach Khalid Jamil is preparing his team for a historic football match against five-time world champions Brazil. Jamil emphasizes handling pressure, keeping things simple, and giving their best, despite the significant gap in rankings. Defender Anwar Ali also stresses the importance of staying calm and following the coach's plan for the high-stakes encounter.
Navi Pillay, a South African jurist of Indian origin, has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote peace and international law. The announcement came as she was in Nuremberg, a symbolic location given her career's focus on international justice. Pillay dedicated the prize to survivors and those working for justice, warning against political attacks on international law and institutions like the ICC. Her extensive career includes roles in the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, the International Criminal Court, and as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Researchers have developed a lightweight, wearable polygraph system that adheres to the chest and measures heart activity, breathing patterns, sweat response, blood flow, and temperature to provide a real-time, whole-body view of stress.
