News for 'The Economic Times'

Rupee plunges to fresh lifetime low of 96.86 against US dollar

Rupee plunges to fresh lifetime low of 96.86 against US dollar

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The Indian rupee depreciated 16 paise to settle at a fresh lifetime low of 96.86 against the US dollar, marking its ninth consecutive session of decline, driven by elevated global crude prices and a strong dollar.

IIP basket gets a refresh: Rare earths in, kerosene out

IIP basket gets a refresh: Rare earths in, kerosene out

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The new Index of Industrial Production (IIP) series, which shifts the base year from 2011-12 to 2022-23 and is scheduled for release on June 1, will, for the first time, track rare earths and minor minerals, piped natural gas (PNG), and water supply, sewerage and waste management.

Mumbai Couple Held In Rs 31 Crore Investment Scam

Mumbai Couple Held In Rs 31 Crore Investment Scam

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Faridabad police have arrested a husband and wife from Mumbai for allegedly defrauding people of approximately Rs 31 crore through fraudulent investment schemes in forex trading and film production.

'We Need Petrol More Than Gold Right Now'

'We Need Petrol More Than Gold Right Now'

Rediff.com11 May 2026

'What exactly is on the prime minister's mind, we do not know. But it feels like the government wants the country to be prepared for unseen challenges ahead.'

In Theatres In June: Cocktail 2, Welcome To The Jungle...

In Theatres In June: Cocktail 2, Welcome To The Jungle...

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Summer blockbusters spill on to June, as theatres line-up delayed releases at the box office. The month has a good mix of movies, and Joginder Tuteja lists your options.

India: World's Biggest Plastic Polluter

India: World's Biggest Plastic Polluter

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

India generates 9.3 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, nearly 20 per cent of the world's total.

PF Withdrawal Through ATM, UPI Soon

PF Withdrawal Through ATM, UPI Soon

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The proposed facility seeks to simplify and speed up PF withdrawals by allowing Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) subscribers to access up to 75 per cent of their balance through ATMs and UPI-based systems, while retaining at least 25 per cent in their accounts.

Govt Eyes Steps To Contain CAD

Govt Eyes Steps To Contain CAD

Rediff.com22 May 2026

'The situation globally is quite challenging, but we have the confidence and courage of conviction that we will come out winners even in this challenging time.'

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Dr Subhash Kashyap not only enhanced Parliament's image in India and abroad, but also the position of Lok Sabha secretary-general which succeeding secretary-generals have upheld thorough neutrality, objectivity and high degree of professionalism, notes Rup Narayan Das.

Xi Jinping lands in North Korea to deepen ties, Kim receives him at airport

Xi Jinping lands in North Korea to deepen ties, Kim receives him at airport

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Pyongyang for his first official visit in seven years, meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to reaffirm their long-standing friendship and pledge further development of bilateral relations amidst Pyongyang's deepening military ties with Moscow and China's assertions against Japan's 'new militarism'.

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to be football's largest tournament but will unfold against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions, including conflicts, strained alliances, and complex immigration policies, challenging its traditional role as a symbol of global unity.

Kashmir airport to shut for runway repairs, tourism sector fears hit

Kashmir airport to shut for runway repairs, tourism sector fears hit

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Srinagar International Airport will suspend all flight operations for 15 days from October 1 for crucial runway maintenance, raising alarm bells within the tourism industry that fears the shutdown will deal a massive blow to the sector as it directly clashes with the peak Durga Puja holiday season.

UK health minister quits, may challenger Starmer for PM

UK health minister quits, may challenger Starmer for PM

Rediff.com14 May 2026

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from the Cabinet, citing a loss of confidence in Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership, potentially triggering a Labour leadership contest.

India trashes claim of declining minority rights, media freedom

India trashes claim of declining minority rights, media freedom

Rediff.com17 May 2026

India has rejected allegations of declining media freedom and erosion of religious and minority rights, asserting that the country is a vibrant democracy that guarantees free speech to all.

Beyond Fees: The Racket Of School 'Add-Ons'

Beyond Fees: The Racket Of School 'Add-Ons'

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

A viral Rs 2.5 lakh school trip to Japan has exposed the soaring, extraneous costs of modern Indian education. From textbook monopolies to elite excursions, these hidden fees create intense classroom peer pressure even as parents face a financial spiral. We ask you, Dear Reader, to share your experience with us.

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting 'Melody' toffees to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, calling it a 'gimmick' while India faces an 'economic storm'. He accused Modi of prioritising public relations over addressing the struggles of farmers, labourers, and youth, a sentiment echoed by other Congress leaders.

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that any attempts to undermine India's sovereignty through 'threats of sanctions' would 'boomerang immediately' under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, highlighting India's sovereign decision-making and strong national interests.

Trump-Xi Engagement Raises India's Concerns

Trump-Xi Engagement Raises India's Concerns

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The US-China rapprochement, however tenuous, is not without implications for India. Both China and Pakistan have become closer to the US, notes Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

How Fuel Price Hikes Are Impacting Kerala's Economy

How Fuel Price Hikes Are Impacting Kerala's Economy

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Kerala is facing increased inflationary pressure due to recent hikes in petrol and diesel prices, according to Chief Minister V D Satheesan. The state's economy is also impacted by the decline in remittances from the Gulf and higher oil prices.

Rupee breaches 93/dollar for the first time, down 19 paise

Rupee breaches 93/dollar for the first time, down 19 paise

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Indian rupee weakened to a record intra-day low against the US dollar due to a strengthening greenback, continuous foreign capital outflows, and elevated global crude oil prices amidst the West Asia conflict.

No vehicle days, convoy cut, public transport, WFH: Andhra's fuel saving plan

No vehicle days, convoy cut, public transport, WFH: Andhra's fuel saving plan

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Andhra Pradesh cabinet has recommended a series of measures, including 'No Vehicle Day,' online classes, and reduced foreign tours, to mitigate the economic impact of the Gulf war.

Dropping Fertility Rates: Chance For India To Be Pandavas

Dropping Fertility Rates: Chance For India To Be Pandavas

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The falling Total Fertility Rate offers India a chance to become the Pandavas -- fewer in number, but each citizen genuinely empowered, educated, and capable of contributing to a civilisation worth building, asserts Amberish K Diwanji.

BJP Aims To Save Punjab From AAP Government's Failures

BJP Aims To Save Punjab From AAP Government's Failures

Rediff.com31 May 2026

BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh has criticised the AAP government in Punjab, citing failures in tackling drug trafficking, mafia activities, and a deteriorating law and order situation. He urged party workers to launch awareness campaigns against drugs and assist in the Special Intensive Revision exercise for upcoming elections, envisioning a drug-free, fear-free, and development-oriented Punjab.

'Pakistan Threatened India With Nuclear Weapons Three Times Before 1998'

'Pakistan Threatened India With Nuclear Weapons Three Times Before 1998'

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

'We were in a heavily nuclearised environment. China had tested for Pakistan in the 1980s and helped their missile programme stay just one step behind us.'

Fadnavis Calls For Maharashtra Police To Combat Cybercrime

Fadnavis Calls For Maharashtra Police To Combat Cybercrime

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has emphasised the need for the state police to enhance their preparedness in addressing modern challenges such as cybercrime and financial offences. He highlighted the importance of the police force in maintaining law and order and contributing to the state's economic progress during the closing ceremony of the 36th Maharashtra State Police Sports Competition.

Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghanistan a violation of sovereignty, India tells UN

Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghanistan a violation of sovereignty, India tells UN

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

India has strongly condemned Pakistan's military airstrikes against Afghanistan, citing significant civilian casualties, and criticised its 'trade and transit terrorism' against Afghan traders, calling these actions blatant violations of international law and UN norms.

'Evidence of...': Oppn slams Modi over 'WFH, no gold' pitch

'Evidence of...': Oppn slams Modi over 'WFH, no gold' pitch

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for citizens to make economic sacrifices in response to the West Asia conflict, calling it 'evidence of failure'. Gandhi accused Modi of shifting responsibility onto the public and being incapable of running the country.

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

A source familiar with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's thinking revealed on Saturday that the department "intends to utilise all available authorities to make Iranian assets accessible for rebuilding and repair efforts related to any future damage inflicted by Iran."

'Shivakumar Is The Richest Politician In The Country'

'Shivakumar Is The Richest Politician In The Country'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'In the (election) affidavit, he had declared Rs 1,400 crores as his assets. He has educational institutions, real estate, malls, etc.'

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

"The US President's statements are within the framework of efforts to reduce energy prices and gain time to implement his military plans," the ministry stated.

India, US strike landmark critical minerals deal amid China concerns

India, US strike landmark critical minerals deal amid China concerns

Rediff.com27 May 2026

A readout by the US said the agreement marked a milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations to ensure that the foundational elements required for advanced technology and energy are available within trusted networks.

Jewellers back PM's gold appeal, propose monetisation scheme enhancements

Jewellers back PM's gold appeal, propose monetisation scheme enhancements

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Leading Indian jewellery bodies, including the All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) and Malabar Gold & Diamonds, have expressed support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to reduce gold imports and are advocating for enhancements to the Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) to unlock India's vast idle gold reserves.

Jacqueline Fernandez to face charges in Rs 200cr money laundering case

Jacqueline Fernandez to face charges in Rs 200cr money laundering case

Rediff.com30 May 2026

A Delhi court has ordered the framing of charges against actress Jacqueline Fernandez, Sukesh Chandrashekhar, and others in connection with a Rs 200-crore money laundering case. The court also ordered charges against Chandrashekhar and others for offences including those under MCOCA in a separate case.

Govt raises import duty on gold, silver after PM's appeal

Govt raises import duty on gold, silver after PM's appeal

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The Indian government has increased import duties on gold and silver from 6 per cent to 15 per cent to curb inbound shipments of precious metals amid a rising import bill due to the West Asia crisis.

China's Real Choke Point Starts at Hormuz, Not Malacca: Report

China's Real Choke Point Starts at Hormuz, Not Malacca: Report

Rediff.com29 May 2026

A new report suggests China's maritime vulnerability lies in the Strait of Hormuz, not Malacca, creating strategic competition in the Indian Ocean.

'Indians Are Not Buying Too Much Of Gold'

'Indians Are Not Buying Too Much Of Gold'

Rediff.com19 May 2026

'Even last year, when India bought gold, the physical quantity was much less than the previous years.'

As FIFA World Cup nears, homeless in US host city feel the heat

As FIFA World Cup nears, homeless in US host city feel the heat

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

When Atlanta hosted the 1996 Olympics, police were accused of arresting homeless people by the thousands. The crackdown resulted in a welter of lawsuits and news stories that caused long-term damage to the city's reputation. Now the Georgia state capital is looking to show the world that it has moved on, as it hosts World Cup games this summer.

Satheesan, Suvendu, Vijay Will Struggle To Fund Poll Promises

Satheesan, Suvendu, Vijay Will Struggle To Fund Poll Promises

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have been fiscally stressed for a considerable period of time, and there are no easy ways to mobilise revenues to meet the cost of the promised freebies, particularly in the prevailing difficult economic scenario, points out M Govinda Rao.

Trump agrees with Xi's 'US declining' remark, blames Biden

Trump agrees with Xi's 'US declining' remark, blames Biden

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Donald Trump agreed with Xi Jinping's assessment of the US as a 'declining nation,' but attributed the decline to the policies of the Biden administration.

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Following through announcements with enforcement of measures is key, as a run through recent Indian economic history shows, points out A K Bhattacharya.