The Congress party has strongly criticised the Modi government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000, alleging it is a result of US pressure to benefit American card companies. The party also linked this move to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues, coining the term "Narendra's Ongoing Trump Appeasement." The government, however, clarified that consumers will not bear the charge, which applies only to merchants.
Daniil Medvedev fought back to defeat Nikoloz Basilashvili in three sets, defend his Almaty Open title, claim his fourth trophy of 2026 and boost ATP Finals qualification hopes.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment over his team's missed opportunities in the first two T20Is against India, acknowledging that while they played well for large parts, they failed to capitalise on crucial moments, leading to two close defeats.
Skipper Shreyas Iyer lauded all-rounder Naman Dhir for his crucial role in India's record-breaking 226-run chase against New Zealand in the first T20I. Iyer highlighted Dhir's versatility and calm demeanour under pressure. Sanju Samson's explosive start and the team's adaptation to changing pitch conditions were also key factors in India's highest-ever T20 chase.
Indian IT major Infosys announced a 6.2 per cent increase in its consolidated net profit, reaching Rs 7,823 crore for the second quarter ending September 30, alongside a 10.2 per cent growth in revenue from operations.
Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi voted in favour of a Russia sanctions act in the US House, diverging from his Democratic party and other Indian-American lawmakers. The bill, which passed, imposes tariffs on Russian oil and gas buyers, potentially impacting India and China, and exempts US uranium purchases from Russia.
US lawmakers are racing to amend the Russia sanctions bill before recess. One amendment specifically names India, China, and other countries as potential targets for 100% tariffs due to their oil trade with Russia. Another significant amendment proposes to scrap the tariff section entirely, while others address presidential waiver powers and aid to Ukraine.
The opposition has intensified its criticism of the government's decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. Leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh allege the move is a result of US pressure, particularly from American card companies, and demand an immediate rollback, warning of increased costs for consumers.
Aryna Sabalenka expressed her profound disappointment after losing the US Open final to Elena Rybakina, culminating in a furious racket-smashing incident. Sabalenka, who was aiming for a third consecutive US Open title, explained her emotional outburst as a way to release aggression and disappointment following the significant defeat.
AISA president Neha Bora appeared before a special executive magistrate after the Delhi High Court dismissed her challenge to a police notice requiring a Rs 10,000 "peace bond." Bora refuses to sign the bond, alleging it's used to curb democratic dissent, while the court has directed authorities to provide her with all material supporting the allegations by October 29.
Alexander Zverev defeated Ben Shelton in the U.S. Open final, securing his first title at Flushing Meadows and his second Grand Slam championship of the year, following his French Open victory.
The ongoing US conflict with Iran has cost the Trump administration an estimated $45.1 billion, according to a Pentagon estimate provided to the US Congress on Friday, CNN reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that using terrorism as an "instrument of statecraft" is unacceptable and cannot be justified. He highlighted that terrorism persists because some states do not exhibit "zero tolerance" and allow political calculations to override historical lessons. Speaking at an event, Jaishankar emphasised the indivisibility of peace and called for stronger global resolve to counter terrorism in all its forms.
Sivakasi, India's fireworks capital, is eyeing global markets as green crackers, rising demand and interest from overseas buyers offer a chance to challenge China's dominance.
New photographic evidence and a Pentagon inspector general's report confirm extensive damage to US military installations across the Middle East due to Iranian missile and drone strikes. The report details billions in financial costs, structural losses to hundreds of buildings, and damage to dozens of aircraft, contradicting previous assertions about US military readiness and ordnance stockpiles. The conflict also led to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil prices.
His remarks come amid a debate over whether Tata Sons, the holding company of India's largest conglomerate Tata group, is required to go public.
China has strongly rejected a US bill that would impose tariffs on countries, including India, for purchasing Russian oil and gas. Beijing views the "Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act 2026" as an act of "long-arm jurisdiction" and interference in its sovereign trade relations, asserting that its economic cooperation with other nations is based on equality and mutual benefit.
Frances Tiafoe discusses his U.S. Open semi-final loss to Ben Shelton, acknowledging the need to improve his match-closing ability. Despite the defeat, he expresses pride in his season, which will see him re-enter the world's top 10, and reaffirms his goal of becoming a Grand Slam champion.
Actor Dhanush has reorganised his fan club into a welfare movement, 'Dhanush Narpani Iyakkam', sparking widespread speculation in Tamil Nadu about his potential entry into politics, despite the actor not officially announcing any such ambitions.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes criticised his team's mentality, stating they adopted a 'mood of defeat' after conceding an early goal in their 4-1 Champions League loss to Como, a result that intensifies pressure on manager Michael Carrick.
Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested four individuals, including two women, in connection with the firing incident at actor Tiger Shroff's car in Mumbai. The suspects are believed to have acted under the instructions of Anil Pandit, a US-based gangster with alleged ties to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The arrests involved a complex operation spanning multiple states, with the accused now in transit remand to Mumbai Police for further investigation.
Shreyas Iyer admits India feared losing their chase against New Zealand before Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy showed character to seal a thrilling T20I win.
Indian and US Army personnel conducted a live-firing demonstration involving the M777 Ultra Light Howitzer at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan as part of the ongoing bilateral Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026, showcasing artillery capabilities, operational coordination and exchange of battlefield practices between the two forces.
The Congress party has accused the Indian government of imposing new charges on UPI transactions due to pressure from the United States, specifically to benefit American card companies. The opposition party demanded the withdrawal of the decision, calling it "anti-national" and alleging it fills the coffers of US firms while burdening Indian citizens. The government, however, clarified that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges apply only to commercial transactions above Rs 2,000 and are not levied on consumers, a stance supported by the BJP which accused Congress of spreading "fake news".
Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has been hospitalised in a stable condition after collapsing during reserve-team training, with sporting director Max Eberl confirming he will be sidelined for weeks due to a virus.
Donald Trump has ruled out using nuclear weapons or ground troops against Iran, despite the US military developing strike options including the "mother of all bombs" (MOAB) for Iranian energy and nuclear facilities. Trump clarified the MOAB is not nuclear and expressed confidence in non-nuclear options. He also discussed nuclear disarmament talks with Russia and China and his determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, even as questions arise about MOAB's effectiveness against deeply buried targets.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Wednesday that Ukraine stands prepared to freeze the conflict along the current front line and transition towards diplomatic negotiations as part of initiatives to end the war with Russia.dukr
A US Air Force colonel, identified by his call sign 'Bravo', survived nearly 50 hours behind Iranian lines after his F-15E fighter jet was shot down near Isfahan. Despite severe injuries, he evaded Iranian forces and was eventually rescued in a complex operation involving US military and intelligence personnel, highlighting a daring mission to leave no man behind.
There is a heartbreaking sincerity in the way Sumo Didi presents its protagonist and her story of courage. But there's a fine line between a sincere underdog story and a banal one, and the film never quite finds it, notes Mayur Sanap.
The US House of Representatives has advanced a bill that would empower President Donald Trump to impose 100 per cent tariffs on countries, including India, that purchase oil and gas from Russia, and also extend sanctions on Iran. The legislation, which previously passed the Senate, aims to curb Russia's energy revenue amidst the Ukraine conflict.
Europe is reeling under a fresh wave of protests as people march over the rising cost of living, pensions, housing, education, corruption and opposition to war. Groups across France, Albania, Italy, Spain and Portugal have held demonstrations in multiple cities, leading to clashes between protesters and the police.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stated on Sunday that the Indian Air Force's Operation Sindoor demonstrated its capability to strike targets across the Western front, serving as a warning to adversaries. He highlighted the operation's validation of the IAF's capability-centric approach, indigenous weapon systems, and commitment to zero collateral damage, while also outlining the force's long-term vision for 2047 to become a multi-domain aerospace power.
WazirX founder Nischal Shetty stated, "We have outdone ourselves, but it is a journey we are still on, and there is a long way to go," reflecting on the cryptocurrency exchange's year-long journey since restarting operations after a cyberattack and restructuring.
Indian squash sensation Anahat Singh, 18, achieved a career-defining victory by defeating eight-time World champion and top seed Nour El Sherbini in straight games at the Silicon Valley Open.
President Donald Trump is set to sign the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, which includes tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and gas, such as India. India has voiced concerns over the potential impact on its ties with the US and the global energy market.
'Questions give you courage, and they also give you answers. Sometimes those answers are uncomfortable, and sometimes they are comfortable.' 'You must be able to accept both in the same stride.'
The opposition has strongly criticised the government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15. They allege the move is a result of US pressure and will lead to increased commodity prices, calling it a "betrayal" of the common man. The government, however, clarifies that customers will not be charged, and the MDR applies only to merchants for larger transactions.
South African captain Temba Bavuma acknowledged the pressure of being World Test Champions after their series-levelling win against Australia. He highlighted the team's realisation of facing strong opposition and praised key performances from himself, Marco Jansen, and Kagiso Rabada. The victory sets up an exciting series decider in Cape Town.
India's foreign exchange reserves saw a decline of USD 5.011 billion, reaching USD 721.016 billion for the week ending October 16, as reported by the Reserve Bank of India. This marks a continued downward trend from their all-time high in September.
Former US National Security Adviser John Bolton has stated that China is not prepared to back India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. He highlighted that any expansion of permanent membership would require a UN Charter amendment, which China could veto. Bolton also discussed the broader institutional challenges facing the UN and suggested that regime change in Iran is crucial for long-term stability in West Asia, linking Houthi attacks to Iran's "ring of fire" strategy.
