INDIAN COUNTERPART
BPO jobs on a seesaw as bots call the shots
Voice AI is driving call centres even as hiring grows, but the shift towards complex tasks leaves freshers scrambling for a new career ladder.
Zelenskyy dials Modi ahead of Abu Dhabi peace talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Modi expressed India's willingness to assist in achieving a peaceful resolution and emphasized dialogue and diplomacy. India's past peace proposal included suggestions for a ceasefire and protection of Indian seafarers in the Black Sea. Peace talks involving Russia, Ukraine, and the US are set to occur in Abu Dhabi.
E20 petrol supplied by PSU oil firms meets prescribed quality standards: Oil Min
The government's statement confirmed compliance of 893 petrol samples with prescribed ethanol content standards. Karnataka's Department of Food contested these findings, claiming higher ethanol levels in some petrol samples. Oil marketing companies asserted their sampling procedures were not followed during inspections in Karnataka. They requested access to sampling documentation and proposed joint testing of the ethanol content.
Piyush Goyal to visit Egypt with big business delegation; India eyes trade, investment partnerships
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will visit Egypt next week with a large business delegation to explore investment and collaboration in sectors including startups, fintech, pharmaceuticals and automobile components. The visit comes as India seeks to deepen its strategic engagement with West Asia and position Egypt as a gateway to African, Arab and European markets.
IOCL, BPCL, HPCL dispute Karnataka's claim of excess ethanol in petrol, seek fresh tests
Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation have disputed Karnataka's ethanol content claims in petrol. They reported testing showing their supplies adhere to prescribed ethanol standards. The companies also raised concerns about the sampling and testing methods used by the state government. They noted discrepancies in density readings related to the alleged high ethanol content.
EU and India conclude negotiations on association to Horizon Europe to push innovation ties
India and the European Commission have completed negotiations for India’s association with Horizon Europe. The agreement is expected to enhance scientific cooperation between Europe and India significantly. Researchers from India will gain access to Horizon Europe funding and can lead joint projects addressing pressing global challenges. This association aims to facilitate collaboration in various fields, including health, climate, and energy.
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Nifty’s 8% surge this week is the best since January 2021. Are bulls here to stay?
Nifty surged 8% this week, marking its biggest weekly gain since January 2021, as foreign investors returned to Indian equities. Strong Q2 earnings, attractive valuations and a global shift away from AI-linked stocks supported the rally. The key question now is whether renewed buying can sustain the market's recovery.
EAM Jaishankar discusses economic partnership, CETA with UK’s Burnham on CHOGM sidelines
S Jaishankar met UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Antigua and Barbuda for CHOGM 2026 discussions. They focused on strengthening economic partnerships under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of digital solutions and climate initiatives during a Commonwealth meeting. He highlighted local distribution networks and the role of the Indian business community in fostering connections.
Law firms draft special teams to help GCCs navigate India terrain
Multinational companies expanding their global capability centres in India may face multiple regulatory and operational challenges going forward. Law firms are forming specialist teams to help these companies navigate complex issues including employment laws and data localisation.
India’s professionals keen to sharpen AI skills, see productivity gains
Nearly 97% of Indian professionals are willing to develop their AI skills, while 88% expect the technology to improve productivity and efficiency, according to Michael Page India’s Candidate Pulse Report 2026, based on a survey of 3,401 professionals across 11 APAC markets, including 2,550 in India.
A month after RBI’s rate hike, banks start raising deposit rates as liquidity shrinks, Bank of India the latest to move
Domestic banks are beginning to increase their deposit rates due to shrinking liquidity conditions in the market. Bank of India recently announced a rate hike on deposits for various maturities, including a special 500-day option. This decision reflects the growing cost of deposits in the banking system as demand for credit rises. Banking system liquidity has significantly decreased from its peak in early September.
'Modi's visit to Canada in December will be another building block': Jaishankar meets Anita Anand
S Jaishankar met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to discuss diplomatic relations between India and Canada. They agreed that Prime Minister Modi's visit in December will strengthen their ties further. Previous tensions arose after allegations against India regarding a separatist's killing earlier this year. Relations have improved since Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's election and visit to India.
'Took stock of our bilateral cooperation': EAM Jaishankar meets US Secy of State Rubio on sidelines of G20
S Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Atlanta. The meeting focused on enhancing India-US cooperation and addressing geopolitical issues. Jaishankar emphasized that military solutions are not viable for resolving global challenges. Rubio also highlighted the importance of protecting economic and maritime security during the discussions. The G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting concluded with crucial dialogues on international economic stability.
"Discussing ACITI": EAM Jaishankar holds trilateral meeting with Australian, Canadian counterparts
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a trilateral meeting with Canadian and Australian counterparts in Atlanta. They discussed the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation Partnership focused on green energy and supply chains. Jaishankar emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to global challenges and highlighted issues impacting the Global South. He noted the adverse effects of military actions on civilian shipping and emphasized market access issues.
Jaishankar has a message for the world: Give diplomacy a chance, as military solutions won't work
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stressed the importance of diplomacy to address global challenges at the G20 meeting. He highlighted ongoing conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in West Asia, while addressing seafarer safety. Jaishankar emphasized the impact of market flooding and supply chain issues on the Global South. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned of interconnected economic and geopolitical crises affecting the global economic order.
Jaishankar's Atlanta diplomacy: Quad meeting and several bilaterals on G20 sidelines
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has a busy schedule during the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Atlanta. He is expected to engage in discussions with multiple foreign ministers on trade, defense, and energy. Meetings with Canada and Brazil are crucial for redefining relationships and securing resources. Jaishankar will also address India's partnerships with European and East Asian nations.
India, Mexico sign terms of reference to kickstart trade pact negotiations
India and Mexico have signed the Terms of Reference to initiate negotiations on a Preferential Trade Agreement. This agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. Key negotiating areas include market access, customs procedures, and trade facilitation measures. Both delegations discussed organizing a Mexican business mission to India in early 2027.
Rajnath Singh meets US Secy of War Hegseth on sidelines of ASEAN defence ministers' meeting in Philippines
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met US War Secretary Pete Hegseth in Cebu during the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus. They celebrated the one-year anniversary of their Major Defense Partnership framework and discussed strengthening cooperation. Singh is also set to hold bilateral meetings with counterparts from several countries, including Japan, Australia, and South Korea. Upon arrival, he received a ceremonial welcome and interacted with local communities.
India, Azerbaijan move to reset ties, boost energy investments and connectivity
Delhi and Baku are currently taking steps to improve bilateral relations through enhanced economic cooperation and connectivity initiatives. After a positive meeting, the Foreign Ministers of both nations emphasized the importance of the International North-South Transport Corridor. There has been a notable increase in Indian investment in Azerbaijan's energy sector, with cumulative investments reaching $1.26 billion. Additionally, both countries are working to strengthen security cooperation against transnational crime.
India to emerge as major exporter to China, ASEAN, get edge in US trade pact, says Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted India's potential to expand exports to China and ASEAN. Negotiations are underway for a trade pact with the United States that could provide India a comparative advantage. The country is also working towards an Investment Protection Agreement with the European Union. Goyal indicated that discussions for preferential trade agreements are progressing with multiple countries and groups.
US green card backlog explained: Why Indian EB-2 and EB-3 applicants face an eight-year disadvantage over Chinese nationals
Indian professionals face stark challenges in their pursuit of US green cards, with waits far longer than their Chinese counterparts. The November 2026 Visa Bulletin reveals a staggering eight-year backlog for Indian applicants in the EB-2 category, driven by limited annual visas and intense demand. Many find themselves changing jobs during this protracted period, which can complicate their green card applications.
We will see India becoming major exporter of goods and services to China: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasised India's willingness to engage with Chinese suppliers. He highlighted the importance of fair play and judicial processes regarding pricing discrepancies. India aims to enhance exports to China and the ASEAN region over the coming years. Recent trade data shows a significant increase in India-China bilateral trade. The Indian government is also addressing concerns related to China's export controls on key machinery.
"Explore new avenues to strengthen strategic partnerships": Rajnath Singh leaves for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus in Philippines
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has departed for Cebu, Philippines, to attend the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus. He will address regional and international security topics during the event on October 28 and 29. Singh plans to hold bilateral discussions with defence ministers from various countries to enhance strategic partnerships. India remains committed to ASEAN centrality and security in the Indo-Pacific region under the Act East Policy.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh to lead Indian team at ADMM-plus in Philippines
Rajnath Singh, India's Defence Minister, will take part in the forthcoming ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting in the Philippines, starting Wednesday. This vital gathering will involve dialogues surrounding key international security challenges. Singh is also scheduled to conduct bilateral talks with his counterparts from multiple countries, focusing on reinforcing existing defense relationships and enhancing strategic cooperation within the region.
‘Being not on time does not exist’: Vidyut Jammwal compares Hollywood vs Bollywood film sets. Street Fighter actor shares how discipline, punctuality and accountability set them apart
Vidyut Jammwal made his Hollywood debut with Street Fighter, which premiered on October 16. He takes on the revered role of Dhalsim, emphasising the importance of punctuality on film sets in the US. Jammwal highlights a collaborative environment where each crew member is accountable, which elevates the overall production quality. He also praises Indian filmmakers' talent for crafting compelling action scenes.
Millet vs maida: Can millet momos really be healthier than regular momos? Former Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat shares nutritional benefits
Using finger millet as an alternative to wheat flour for momos can elevate their nutritional profile. This shift not only increases dietary fiber and calcium but also promotes whole-grain benefits. However, the overall nutrition relies on various factors including the choice of fillings, preparation methods, and portion sizes. While steamed momos are preferable, excessive sauces can diminish their health advantages, so mindful ingredient selection is key.
FICCI seeks Dutch investment in mfg, tech; calls for project-level follow-up
FICCI has called for enhanced Dutch investments in India’s manufacturing and technology sectors during Piyush Goyal's visit. The discussions may lead to manufacturing partnerships and technology collaborations which would strengthen bilateral trade. Greater emphasis is placed on supply chain integration to meet Dutch quality and sustainability standards. The upcoming India-EU free trade agreement is expected to facilitate deeper commercial ties.
India, Uzbekistan discuss bilateral ties during foreign minister Jaishankar's Azerbaijan visit
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov in Azerbaijan’s Baku to discuss bilateral issues and stress the timely implementation of agreements reached at the highest level. The meeting follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s August visit to Uzbekistan, during which the two countries upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and set a $5 billion bilateral trade target.
'Told them we will put 250% tariffs...': Trump reiterates claim of India-Pakistan ceasefire through tariff threat
Donald Trump addressed a rally, asserting he halted hostilities between India and Pakistan with trade tariff threats. He claimed that his ultimatum led to both countries de-escalating their military actions. India, however, disputed Trump's assertions, particularly about aircraft losses during the conflict. The Indian government has consistently rejected any external mediation regarding its military operations.
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