‘Provocation’ could accelerate Taiwan reunification, retired PLA major general says

Andy Burnham urged to rule out tax rises in next month's Budget - after being stung by jibe that he's just 'another tax and spend socialist'

Shadow chancellor Andrew Griffith called for a moratorium on further tax rises, warning they are 'crushing' the economy.

Inquiry into SAS 'war crimes' in Afghanistan has already cost £58million as special forces troops say three-year probe is hurting nation's defence

The inquiry was commissioned to investigate alleged war crimes committed by soldiers serving with the SAS in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013.

'Loneliness' in China is now a $1 trillion 'singles economy' in the world's second most populous country with 1.4 billion people

China’s growing number of people living alone is driving a $1 trillion singles economy, with businesses offering products and services tailored to solo consumers, from one-person meals and travel to pets, gaming and AI companions. The economy is likely to grow to $4 trillion by 2030. The trend is also reshaping spending habits, ageing concerns and China’s wider consumer market.

Hundreds of forecourts already charging £2 a litre for fuel as near-record prices threaten to further stoke inflation, piling pressure on Labour to abandon planned Fuel Duty hike

Analysis of thousands of forecourt prices found 236 were selling diesel at more than £2 a litre, with a further 633 pricing it at 199.9p.

Lovers are flogged 100 times each for adultery with girlfriend begging for mercy then collapsing in pain during brutal Sharia caning in Indonesia

A couple was flogged 100 times each for adultery under an Indonesian province's strict Sharia laws.

India-US tariff saga under Trump: A look at key turning points

New U.S. tariffs and sanctions legislation create a new flashpoint for India-U.S. relations. Washington imposed tariffs on Indian goods, citing continued Russian oil purchases by New Delhi. The U.S. also proposed tariffs on countries reducing dependence on Russian energy sources. India warned that these actions could negatively impact bilateral trade and engagement. Both nations are working towards a limited trade deal and aim to double bilateral trade.

Means-test disability benefits to save £8billion and cut handouts to middle-class youngsters with anxiety, Labour told

Andy Burnham could slash a further £2.2billion from Britain's bloated benefits bill by limiting disability benefit claims in under-30s to those with the most severe conditions, a report found.

Modinomics at 76: The birthday cake, the candles and the numbers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 76 as he completes nearly 12 years in office, a period that has reshaped India’s economic landscape through infrastructure expansion, digitalisation, financial inclusion and policy reforms. While India has emerged as a major global economy, private investment, manufacturing depth and quality employment remain key unfinished parts of the economic story.

Modinomics at 76: The birthday cake, the candles and the numbers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 76 as he completes nearly 12 years in office, a period that has reshaped India’s economic landscape through infrastructure expansion, digitalisation, financial inclusion and policy reforms. While India has emerged as a major global economy, private investment, manufacturing depth and quality employment remain key unfinished parts of the economic story.

From mountain fighters to Red Sea power: How the Houthis rose to control Bab el-Mandeb

Yemen's Houthi group now controls the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This group evolved into a formidable fighting force with Iranian support. They have disrupted vital shipping and struck critical oil facilities. Houthi missiles and drones have reached over 1,000 miles away. Their military tactics focus on infiltration and drone attacks.

84% of Indian small and medium enterprises plan to increase cybersecurity spending, but readiness gaps persist: Study

A large majority of Indian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are planning to increase their cybersecurity investments over the next 12-24 months, but gaps in preparedness, monitoring and skilled expertise continue to remain a challenge, according to a study by Tata Tele Business Services (TTBS) and CyberMedia Research (CMR).

India secures 1.9 MT steel export quota to EU, expects total access to reach 2.8 MT

India secured a 1.9 million tonne annual steel export quota to the European Union. Exporters anticipate an additional 0.9 million tonne from residual quotas. This agreement protects the EU's steel industry against global overcapacity issues. Indian steel exports will face the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. The pact is expected to be implemented next year after signing.

Two Brits are among three dead after plane crashed in Swiss Alps

The small single-engine aeroplane crashed high in the mountains near the town of Leukerbad in the southern canton of Valais, Switzerland on Tuesday.

Finance Ministry rejects US pressure claims over new UPI MDR, says RuPay has no special edge

India's Finance Ministry rejects claims of US influence on UPI payment charges. The new framework prioritizes RuPay credit cards for UPI transactions. This move aims to foster domestic competition and create a sustainable revenue model. Small merchants and certain transactions will remain exempt from the new charges. The government emphasizes protecting India's electronic payment ecosystem sovereignty.

Lebanon security talks in Paris focus on replacing UN mission

Leaders from France, Lebanon, and Jordan met in Paris to discuss future support. They are planning a new force to replace the UN peacekeeping mission. This comes as the UNIFIL mandate concludes after nearly fifty years of operations. Lebanon seeks a European or other force to prevent a security vacuum.

Tata Sons approves five-year extension for N Chandrasekaran to prepare for IPO

Tata Sons' board approved N. Chandrasekaran's reappointment as executive chairman for five years. The company also initiated plans for a potential public listing following regulatory directives. This decision reverses Chandrasekaran's earlier announcement about not seeking another term. The listing follows the RBI's rejection of Tata Sons' request to exit shadow banking regulations. This move prepares Tata Sons for significant structural changes and a new operational phase.

AITUC calls for periodic revision of wage ceiling under EPFO

A day after the government announced a revision in wage ceiling under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to Rs 25,000 per month from Rs 15,000, the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) AITUC demanding the wage ceiling to be fixed at Rs 30,000 per month to keep pace with increase in workers’ earnings.

Pakistan to seek bigger China swap line as $30 billion facility nears renewal

Pakistan plans to request an increased swap line with China upon its 2027 expiration. The nation anticipates a U.S. response regarding a proposed $10 billion stabilization facility soon. Discussions are ongoing with U.S. entities for potential aircraft and refinery financing. Pakistan navigates elevated crude oil prices due to Middle East conflict concerns. The government currently sees its financial situation as manageable without additional IMF support.

Kiran Bedi moves Delhi HC in Satya Niketan building collapse case, Centre opposes

Retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi approached the Delhi High Court seeking intervention. She wishes to be a party in the Satya Niketan building collapse case. This incident tragically resulted in seven fatalities and several injuries. Authorities opposed her application and requested time to file objections. The court granted them three days to respond to Bedi's plea.

Kiran Bedi moves Delhi HC in Satya Niketan building collapse case, Centre opposes

Retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi approached the Delhi High Court seeking intervention. She wishes to be a party in the Satya Niketan building collapse case. This incident tragically resulted in seven fatalities and several injuries. Authorities opposed her application and requested time to file objections. The court granted them three days to respond to Bedi's plea.

Taipei donates coastguard vessel to Manila amid South China Sea tensions

Taiwan has quietly acknowledged donating a coastguard vessel to the Philippines, potentially adding to Manila’s maritime patrol capacity amid its long-running stand-off with Beijing in the South China Sea. Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration said on Wednesday that “this case” was being handled in line with previous transfers of vessels to the Marshall Islands, Palau and Tuvalu. Unlike those three Pacific states, which all maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taipei, the Philippines recognises...

In 2012, Elon Musk paid $17 million for a 16,251-square-foot Bel-Air mansion with rooftop solar; 8 years later, he sold it for $29 million

In 2020, Elon Musk made headlines by selling a lavish Bel-Air mansion at a hefty profit. This sale unfolded against a backdrop where countless young adults confronted an increasingly unaffordable housing market. With home prices spiraling, Musk's lucrative real estate dealings highlight a stark divide between his financial gains and the struggles of a generation unable to secure proper housing.

The 'forgotten' migrant route into Britain: I'm the boss of a haulage company - and while everyone is outraged by small boats, THIS is what I find in the back of my lorries... and my drivers get the blame!

When you open up the trailer, it's a disgrace,' says Lorenzo Zaccheo, standing in the yard of his international haulage company in Kent, just ten miles from the Channel Tunnel.

Father spent Rs 2,000 on son’s Roblox promotion, forgot to delete card; 9-year-old created a Rs 1 crore bill problem from saved details

A nine-year-old Minecraft and Roblox creator reportedly used his father’s saved company card details to promote videos on his YouTube channel, resulting in $118,000 in advertising charges over three weeks. His father, marketing professional David Sarkisyan, said he had initially spent about $20 on promotion but failed to remove the payment information, allowing his son to access it later.

Quote of the day by former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy: ‘There comes a time in life when you walk away from all the drama…’ – a reminder to choose peace over negativity

Jacqueline Kennedy, known for her role as First Lady, shared her insights on navigating life's obstacles. She emphasized the importance of distancing oneself from negativity while cherishing supportive connections as key to true happiness. Her experiences, marked by significant personal trials and unwavering dedication to public service, enhanced her wisdom.

Tata Trusts split spills into Tata Sons boardroom as SDTT seeks to block nominee’s listing vote

A split within Tata Trusts is affecting Tata Sons' boardroom decisions regarding its impending listing. Sir Dorabji Tata Trust seeks to prevent its nominee director from supporting the public offering. The Reserve Bank of India has mandated that upper-layer NBFCs must list on stock exchanges. Tata Sons board is expected to accept this directive, prompting swift regulatory compliance preparations.

Asian Games 2026: India aim to turn World Cup lessons into action, defend hockey title and seal LA Olympics berth

India’s men’s hockey team will seek to put its disappointing World Cup campaign behind it as it begins its Asian Games title defence in Nagoya. Coach Craig Fulton said the team has identified areas for improvement and is focused on translating those lessons into action, with Sunday’s opener against Indonesia next.

Use rubbing alcohol for routine pruning; reserve a 1:9 bleach solution for tools exposed to fire blight

Recent millennial gardening trends highlight a crucial oversight regarding tool sanitation, which can contribute to the spread of plant diseases. Many suggest using bleach for cleaning, though it risks damaging metal tools over time. A safer alternative is rubbing alcohol, ideal for daily upkeep. Still, bleach is vital for combating specific diseases like fire blight in fruit trees. Properly cleaning gardening tools promotes healthier plants and prolongs their longevity.

Ohio house of horrors mom-of-16 pleads not guilty to child abuse charges as she cradles stomach in court - but lawyer refuses to say if she's pregnant again

Elizabeth Siders, 34, appeared to be cradling a protruding bump under her bright orange prison garb during her court appearance on Wednesday in Ohio.

India shooters face long commutes, bus delays at Asian Games as coach flags arrangements

A senior coach voiced disappointment with Asian Games arrangements in Nagoya. Shooters face long commutes to the competition venue daily. Buses experienced significant delays, impacting training schedules for athletes. The coach noted Japan's image was somewhat tarnished by these issues. Despite challenges, the team must adapt and focus on their performance.

Osama bin Laden's eldest son 'FAKED his death in 2019 with the help of mafia clan dubbed the Sopranos of Afghanistan - and is plotting to attack the West'

Osama bin Laden's eldest son faked his death in 2019 with the help of al-Qaeda and a ruthless mafia clan dubbed 'the Sopranos of Afghanistan', according to a new intelligence assessment.

BCCI AGM: Andaman & Nicobar associate membership, ICC representative and IPL Governing Council on agenda

The upcoming 95th Annual General Meeting of the BCCI promises to tackle significant issues including associate membership and ICC representative roles. Arun Dhumal's unopposed re-election to the IPL Governing Council will also be formalized. Moreover, the agenda encompasses a review of financial data, annual budgets, and selections for committees, while contemplating the direction of the chairman of selectors, addressing critical governance in Indian cricket.

A Virginia dairy takes 105,000 tons of discarded food and drink each year instead of sending it to waste; it becomes renewable gas

A Virginia dairy farm is pioneering a method to convert food waste and cow manure into renewable energy. By producing renewable natural gas, the farm is able to support the operations of a local pharmaceutical company. This project not only diverts significant amounts of waste from landfills but also highlights the economic viability of sustainable energy solutions, aided by federal incentives and policies designed for environmental progress.

Nirmala Sitharaman cries while listening to legendary Carnatic vocalist M.S. Subbulakshmi at a Bengaluru event

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman became emotional at an event in Bengaluru. The program honored the 110th birth anniversary of Carnatic vocalist M.S. Subbulakshmi. Subbulakshmi's great-granddaughters performed some of her renowned compositions during the celebration. The minister reflected on Subbulakshmi's dedication and her significant musical legacy. M.S. Subbulakshmi received the Bharat Ratna and performed at the United Nations.

Quote of the Day by French poet Alfred de Musset: ‘A happy memory is perhaps on this earth truer than happiness itself’ - a tender reflection on memory, joy and the moments we carry with us

Quote of the Day by Alfred de Musset: Nostalgia often presents a brighter picture than current joy. Our memories refine emotions, capturing pure and cherished instances. It's through the lens of time that we come to value joy more profoundly once it transforms into a memory. As time passes, experiences enhance their worth, becoming one-of-a-kind treasures.

1966 Asian Games hockey gold: Olympic medallist Harbinder Singh recalls how 10-man India beat Pakistan in Bangkok final

Recalling the triumph at the 1966 Asian Games, Harbinder Singh speaks of a gold medal won amidst the spirit of a patriotic anthem and fierce competition. He believes contemporary hockey lacks the finesse of the past and emphasizes the importance of having international players participate in local matches to enhance the sport's appeal. Singh confidently declares that the Indian team is poised to emerge victorious again at the Asian Games.

‘Our engineering talent pool is gold mine’: Modi woos chipmakers, unveils $13.5 bn SEMICON phase

‘Our engineering talent pool is gold mine’: Modi woos chipmakers, unveils $13.5 bn SEMICON phase

India’s August exports rise 26.1%, trade deficit narrows to $26.9 billion

India’s merchandise exports jumped 26.1% year-on-year to $43.8 billion in August, accelerating from 19.6% growth in July, while slower import growth narrowed the merchandise trade deficit to $26.9 billion from $32 billion in July.

In 1982, a near-fatal ‘Coolie’ accident left doctors declaring Big B ‘clinically dead’; Amitabh Bachchan now has no pulse in his wrist

Amitabh Bachchan shared a startling detail about his 1982 Coolie accident. He explained that doctors made several cuts around his wrist during treatment. This severe injury resulted in him having no pulse on that particular wrist. He humorously stated that his pulse is now only detectable on his neck. Bachchan recalled this during an episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 13.