LABOUR SECRETARY
Thousands march in Antalya, calling out COP31's lack of climate ambition
Thousands of demonstrators marched peacefully from Aydin Kanza Park to Republic Square in central Antalya, expressing disappointment that while world leaders recognise that average global temperatures are set to increase by more than 1.5 degree Celsius, there is no plan on how to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels, protect ecosystems and deliver the climate finance needed to make it happen and support communities to adapt.
US assures India of tariff edge over competitors in trade pact
India and the US are working to finalize an interim trade deal by the end of this financial year. Ongoing negotiations focus on tariff advantages and customs issues as outlined in the agreement. New Delhi will uphold concessions on Scotch whiskey in its trade relationship with London. Concerns have been raised over high import duties on bulk Scotch at Indian ports despite reductions proposed in the trade pact.
Central government sets Rs 1.5 lakh laptop price limit for employees; Rs 1.8 lakh for Make-in-India devices
The central government has issued new guidelines allowing officers in Pay Levels 8 and above to buy laptops for their official duties. Eligible officers can invest up to Rs 1,50,000, or Rs 1,80,000 for Make-in-India devices. After four years, these laptops can be kept, provided that all data is erased prior. In case of transfers or retirements, officers can retain laptops by settling the book value.
Tea industry groups back panel's proposal for minimum sustainable price as costs outpace prices
Five tea industry associations have welcomed the government committee's recommendation for a minimum sustainable price for tea. This recommendation aims to address rising production costs that are exceeding the prices received by producers. The proposed benchmark price is linked to wage movements and consumer price indices, which will be reviewed periodically. Producers believe this pricing mechanism will help absorb wage increases and support investment in tea production.
Women must feel safe using cabs for worry-free career, NCW chief says: Report
The National Commission for Women has recommended strict safety measures for women using app-based cabs. These include driver background checks and emergency response systems to improve safety during rides. The growing presence of women in various sectors highlights the need for these guidelines. Rahatkar emphasises that safety concerns should not hinder women's professional growth in the workforce.
Democrats' US midterm sweep may give India more room to negotiate a balanced trade deal with Trump
Democrats' takeover of both chambers of the US Congress could ease pressure on India in trade negotiations with the Trump administration, experts said. Greater Congressional scrutiny of tariffs may create opportunities for Indian exporters, although the existing 18% tariff is unlikely to change immediately and the bilateral trade agreement could face delays.
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Supreme Court directs Centre to set up special cell to monitor child labour law
The Supreme Court has instructed the Centre to create a special cell for monitoring child labour law implementation. This special cell is to ensure compliance with the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016. The Ministry of Women and Child Development is responsible for issuing directions to state enforcement agencies. The court noted the importance of strict enforcement of the amended provisions of the law.
US midterm election results: Indian-origin US Congressman Ro Khanna wins California election, backs H-1B visa reform and immigrant rights
In a resounding victory, Congressman Ro Khanna, of Indian descent, has been re-elected in California's 17th District, garnering an impressive 72 per cent of the votes cast against his Republican opponent, Ritesh Tandon. As a notable progressive figure in Congress, Khanna is a fierce advocate for immigrant rights and champions reforms in the tech sector.
Election Day 2026 results so far: Abdul El-Sayed vs Mike Rogers in Michigan Senate race; who is Democrat's wife Sarah Jukaku?
Election Day 2026 results so far: Michigan's closely watched 2026 Senate race pits Democrat Abdul El-Sayed against Republican Mike Rogers, with both candidates competing for a crucial seat. Most polls predict that Abdul El-Sayed might win. As voters head to the polls, here's what to know about El-Sayed's career, political background and wife, psychiatrist Sarah Jukaku.
'Very sad' that 23 states, UTs not yet responded to Centre over discrimination in jails: SC
The Supreme Court has expressed disappointment regarding the lack of responses from 23 states and Union Territories. These regions have not provided the requested information about eliminating jail discrimination. The apex court previously deemed caste-based discrimination unconstitutional in jail regulations. A final opportunity has been given to these states to reply, with a hearing scheduled for January 13. The court has indicated potential consequences if responses are not received.
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood scraps 15-year settlement wait for migrant care workers earning £25,000
The UK government has revised its immigration settlement rules, particularly for foreign care workers. Eligible care workers can now qualify for permanent residency after five years instead of 15. In addition, changes will extend the standard settlement period for most migrants from five to ten years. Stricter eligibility conditions are also being introduced for all applicants and refugees.
India, EU discuss FTA implementation ahead of December signing
In an effort to advance their free trade agreement, India and the European Union held pivotal discussions led by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal, who visited Brussels for dialogues with prominent EU officials. Central to the talks were customs cooperation and trade facilitation, deemed critical for the agreement's efficacy. Additionally, industry stakeholders from the diamond sector were engaged to harness opportunities within India's expanding market.
India, EU discuss FTA implementation, customs cooperation and market access in Brussels
India and the European Union engaged in discussions regarding the implementation of their Free Trade Agreement. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held meetings with various senior European Commission officials in Brussels, focusing on market access and customs procedures. The FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on the majority of exports from both regions. Both parties are working towards the proposed signing and full ratification of the agreement.
Uttar Pradesh to launch state Quantum Mission, steps up push for AI and robotics
The state of Uttar Pradesh is gearing up to launch a transformative Quantum Mission, poised to bolster its technology framework. By focusing on quantum technology within a broader digital transformation agenda, the initiative aims to ignite innovation. At the ETGovernment AI Vision Conclave, leading industry figures explored the adoption of AI, investment avenues, and workforce readiness.
DA hiked by 3% to 63%: Know the impact of hike on salaries of Level 1-10 central government employees
DA hike news: In a significant update for central government employees, a 63% dearness allowance will be implemented for the period of July to December 2026. This marks a 3% rise in the current allowance, providing enhanced financial assistance. Level 1 employees can expect an increase of Rs 540 in their monthly salary.
British PM Burnham commits to 'strongest possible' links with India in Diwali address
During his first Diwali as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham expressed his commitment to strengthen UK-India relations. The celebration at 10 Downing Street included lighting lamps and cultural performances. Burnham emphasized the importance of harmony among various communities in the UK. Key speakers highlighted the ongoing free trade agreement between the two countries and its benefits. The festive events reflect the growing partnership between the UK and India.
UK new minimum wage 2027: What will the new rates be, how much more will workers earn, and when does the new minimum wage start?
UK minimum wage 2027: The UK minimum wage will rise by 3.9% in April 2027, taking the hourly rate to £13.21 for workers aged 21 and over and £11.27 for those aged 18 to 20. Here's what to know about the new minimum wage 2027, how much more workers will earn and when the new rates take effect.
What time is UK budget today and where to watch it? Will income tax rise, fuel prices increase and pensioners get relief in John Healey’s big announcement?
When will UK budget be announced? UK Chancellor John Healey will deliver his first Budget today, with the key announcements expected on income tax, fuel duty, pension payments and household energy bills. John Healey is set to deliver his first Budget this afternoon, with the chancellor expected to outline the proposals at approximately 12.30pm.
DA hike for central government employees: Can government announce dearness allowance increase on Wednesday?
DA news: More than 55 lakh central government employees are anticipating a dearness allowance hike announcement soon. The hike is expected to be announced following the cabinet meeting scheduled for October 28, 2026. If approved, the DA rate may increase from 60% to an estimated 63%, resulting in salary increases. Employees are hopeful for the announcement after delayed expectations in previous meetings this month.
India and US fine-tune trade pact after concluding most talks, says Piyush Goyal
India and the United States have nearly finalized discussions regarding a proposed bilateral trade agreement. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal mentioned that fine-tuning of the agreement is currently underway. This follows remarks from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about a few remaining details. Initially, the US removed a penalty on Indian goods related to Russian oil purchases.
"Nothing to fear": Top bureaucrat says IDBI staff, pensioners' service conditions won't change after Fairfax deal
The DIPAM secretary's assurance comes as IDBI Bank employees oppose the government’s divestment plan and have called for a strike across the lender’s branches in early November. The United Forum of Bank Unions has also extended support to the proposed strike.
No additional EPS contribution by government on higher wage ceiling of Rs 25,000; know what it means for your pension
EPS pension: In a recent notification, the central government confirmed that the Employees' Pension Scheme contribution will remain at the current cap of Rs 15,000, despite announcing a new wage ceiling of Rs 25,000. This choice reflects findings from earlier actuarial evaluations pointing to a potential funding shortfall. Additionally, the government has promised supplementary budgetary support to ensure current pension payouts, although sustainability concerns have been voiced in Parliament.
First terrorism, then Naxalism, now drugs: By 2029, Amit Shah sets hard deadline to wipe out India’s narcotics menace & Punjab crisis
Union home minister Amit Shah has set December 31, 2029, as the target to make India drug-free, saying the Centre will focus on tackling the narcotics menace after its fight against terrorism and armed Naxalism. Speaking on Police Commemoration Day, Shah also credited security forces for their role in LWE-affected regions. Around 7,000 people from 126 districts affected by left-wing extremism will attend the Ekta Diwas parade in Gujarat on October 31.
Poonam Dhillon breaks silence over Rs 90 lakh FD fraud allegations by Nagma, Upasana Singh amid CINTAA row: 'It’s not like anyone else has taken a single rupee...'
Poonam Dhillon has openly countered accusations of misappropriating CINTAA's fixed deposits amid current management conflicts. Upasana Singh alleged that money from a fixed deposit account was improperly accessed despite it being intended to remain untouched. Poonam refuted these claims, affirming that all financial dealings are transparently documented for committee review.
DA hike: Why is there delay in DA hike announcement and when can government make it?
DA hike announcement: Central government employees are eagerly anticipating an announcement regarding a dearness allowance hike, which remains uncertain. The recent weekly meeting, where such an announcement could have taken place, was not convened. In response, the Confederation of Central Government Employees and Workers staged a protest highlighting the overdue DA hike. While previous discussions centered around performance-linked bonuses, the DA hike was overlooked.
Keralam to form special committee with trade union representatives on labour codes; report due in 10 days
Keralam government is forming a special committee that will include trade union representatives to review Labour Codes. This committee will submit recommendations within ten days regarding the state's rules implementation. Chief Minister V D Satheesan emphasized the need for protecting workers' interests during the meeting. All trade unions will be invited to provide their suggestions for amendments to the draft prepared in 2021.
‘Vote chori sarkaar’ perfected ‘gramin mazdoori chori’: Congress slams VB G RAM G Act after alleging no workers found at 5 Beed sites
Congress has accused the Modi government of replacing MGNREGA with VB-G RAM G, undermining rural support systems. Allegations of attendance fraud and wage theft have emerged from investigations in drought-hit Maharashtra. The VB-G RAM G Act, effective from July 1, aims to modernize rural employment while facing criticism. Local politicians are reportedly benefiting at the expense of workers' rights within this new framework.
India-New Zealand FTA comes into effect today
The FTA will provide Indian exporters with 100% duty-free access to the New Zealand market, opening opportunities for MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, farmers and artisans. This is expected to facilitate $20 billion in investments into India in 15 years that would create opportunities across manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and innovation.
J&K administration orders probe into IAS officer's 'misconduct' with female JKAS officer
An inquiry has been ordered by the Jammu and Kashmir administration regarding alleged misconduct by IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan. This misconduct involved abusive language directed towards a junior JKAS officer during an online review meeting. Ranjan also threatened to suspend the officer and questioned JK Public Service Commission's authority. The incident has had strong reactions from political leaders and the JKAS officers' fraternity.
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