MONSOON PATTERNS
Patanjali Foods Q2 Results: Net profit falls 19% YoY to Rs 420 crore, revenue rises 16%
The FMCG company’s revenue from operations meanwhile increased 15.55% YoY to Rs 11,322.58 crore during the second quarter of FY27, from Rs 9,798.84 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year. Its total expenses rose around 18% YoY to Rs 10,997.51 crore during the quarter under review, from Rs 9,344.98 crore in the year-ago period.
2026 set to rank among four warmest years on record, says WMO
The World Meteorological Organization indicates that 2026 will likely be among the four warmest years recorded. The global average temperature so far in 2026 is notably above pre-industrial levels, with more increases expected. El Nino's influence is expected to contribute substantially to this warming trend later in the year. Additionally, sea levels have reached unprecedented heights and ice loss continues to accelerate.
Bayer CropScience Q2 profit rises 9% to Rs 166 crore despite 19% decline in revenue
Bayer CropScience Ltd has announced an impressive 8.84% growth in net profit, totaling Rs 166.2 crore for Q2 FY27. However, total income saw a 19.4% decline year-over-year, attributed to ongoing market challenges. Factors such as unpredictable monsoon patterns have disrupted both sowing and crop protection demand. In response, the company emphasizes efficiency improvements and portfolio enhancements, while the board has declared an interim dividend of Rs 90 per share.
Mumbai, India's financial hub is losing its coastal edge as pollution surges
Mumbai has faced unusually poor air quality throughout October as the average air quality index has sharply increased. According to data, this month has seen significant concentrations of PM2.5 particles that pose health risks. The ongoing El Niño effect is causing slower coastal winds that usually help disperse pollution. Factors such as construction activity and urban development further contribute to the deteriorating air quality.
Coal stocks may rise 10 million tonnes by December-end as electricity demand eases in winter
The government expects coal stocks at domestic coal-based thermal power plants to increase by around 10 million tonnes by December, supported by higher rake availability and lower electricity demand during winter. Coal stocks rose to 18.1 million tonnes on October 28 from 17.4 million tonnes five days earlier, while the number of plants reporting critically low stocks declined. The government is also considering a higher year-end stock target to prepare for next summer's peak power demand.
India is addressing Wall Street’s favourite ‘elephant’ in the room to its own advantage
The Indian government has identified 762 potential applications of artificial intelligence across 62 ministries and departments, spanning farming, railway safety, tax compliance, public grievances, customs and healthcare. While some tools are already in use, others remain in pilot or development stages.
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Arunachal Pradesh faces protests over 11,000-MW Siang dam, 1,605-MW Subansiri project
Protests erupted in Arunachal Pradesh over proposed hydropower projects, causing violent clashes and significant unrest. People oppose the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project and the Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project, voicing concerns over environmental damage. Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the need for careful assessment of the projects before proceeding. The proposed developments are linked to fears of water security due to China's dam projects upstream.

Gangetic West Bengal. parts of northeast India have moved out of tropical climate zone over seven decades, IMD study finds
Gangetic West Bengal has transitioned to a temperate climate zone, influencing the rainfall and agricultural patterns. The recent study indicates a notable decline in annual rainfall over the region from 1981 to 2020. This change has been linked to ocean temperature patterns, which also affect long-term agricultural planning.

Money managers say there’s nowhere to hide as Super El Niño forms
Investors are preparing for the impacts of an unprecedented El Niño cycle affecting global markets. The weather phenomenon is linked to rising food prices and inflation estimates, heightening economic concerns. Analysts identify several vulnerable nations, including Indonesia, Brazil, and Colombia, likely to experience spillover effects. Strategies to cope include focusing on businesses developing technologies for extreme weather resilience. The widespread effects of El Niño necessitate adaptations spanning various sectors globally.

Giant 'heat storms' are scorching the Earth. This is the story of the biggest one on record
Heat storms have increased dramatically, causing severe global consequences including excess deaths and environmental catastrophes. Recent heat storms have been identified as a new classification, representing larger and more persistent heat events. The intensity of these heat storms has worsened due to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. Associated weather patterns have significantly disrupted ecosystems and agriculture worldwide.

FMCG firms grapple with input cost inflation in Q2, brace for margin pressure in H2
FMCG companies are experiencing increased margin pressure as input costs continue to rise. Rising inflation is affecting profitability, forcing firms to consider price hikes after the festive season. Companies are currently absorbing some costs to maintain consumer demand in urban and rural markets. The expectations for the second half of FY27 remain cautious amidst fluctuating commodity prices. Consumer purchasing behavior may shift if food prices increase or rural incomes decline.

Super El Nino: What the potential arrival of a stronger 'little boy' means for India’s water, power, health, winter and summer?
India is projected to experience a warmer and drier start to winter as a super El Niño develops. A weak monsoon has led to concerns over water availability and crop health across the country. The World Meteorological Organization anticipates significant temperature increases and shifts in rainfall patterns. This unusual weather pattern may lead to increased health risks, especially during the summer months.

India's retail inflation quickens to 5.54% in September from 4.83% in August, hits near two-year high
India's retail inflation accelerated to 5.54% in September 2026, a notable rise from August's 4.83%. This jump is particularly linked to rising food prices, predominantly in vegetables. Rural inflation hit 6.08%, outpacing urban inflation at 4.88%. In response, the Reserve Bank of India increased the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points on October 7, 2026, and revised its inflation outlook for the fiscal year 2027.

India’s monsoon risks may raise food industry costs: D&B
India is experiencing agricultural risks attributed to monsoon conditions, which could impact food processors and poultry producers. Procurement costs and inventory needs are likely to rise significantly due to these agricultural challenges. Rice and wheat stocks provide immediate buffers against potential food-supply issues, but maize faces direct risks from production shortfalls. Affected states include Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, which contribute significantly to overall foodgrain output.

El Nino pushes Pacific to its hottest ever, and global temperatures show no sign of cooling
El Nino has reached an all-time high in sea surface temperatures, significantly surpassing previous peaks. The rising temperatures are expected to have long-term effects on global climates until at least 2027. In India, El Nino typically leads to reduced monsoon rainfall, which already showed a deficit this year. Experts have warned that this phenomenon could further threaten agricultural yields and increase inflation.

Mumbai heatwave alert widens across Maharashtra as IMD warns of hot conditions
Mumbai and nearby districts are currently under a yellow alert for potential heat-wave conditions. The India Meteorological Department forecasts dry weather following the retreat of the southwest monsoon. Economic analysts are monitoring agricultural impacts due to rising temperatures and potential food inflation risks. Weather patterns in the region will influence future policy decisions regarding economic conditions. Normal weather conditions are anticipated to return by October 12, 2026.

Weather Today October 9: When will winter begin in India? IMD shares cold-wave update as Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Karnataka brace for rain
Winter in India: The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka, with a low-pressure area likely to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 13. The Southwest Monsoon is expected to withdraw from the entire country by mid-October, as the Northeast Monsoon sets in over south Peninsular India. India recorded a 72% rainfall deficit during October 1-7.

El Nino could rank among strongest since 1950, peak in December, last through February: UN body
El Nino is forecasted to intensify and peak by December, lasting through February 2027. Sea surface temperatures are expected to reach unprecedented levels during this phenomenon, affecting global weather patterns. It could be one of the strongest El Ninos since at least 1950, according to the World Meteorological Organization. India may experience economic repercussions, including increased food prices and disrupted agricultural practices.

Weather today October 8: Will there be heavy rain in Tamilnadu, Delhi? check IMD latest update
Patna, Lucknow Weather today: IMD has issued fresh warnings for October 8, with heavy rain forecast over Tamil Nadu and Kerala, scattered showers expected in Delhi, Patna and Lucknow, and Odisha staying under watch through week as monsoon withdrawal picks up pace from central India.

RBI Inflation FY2026-27: Malhotra & Co raises inflation forecast to 5.2% for FY27
RBI Inflation 2026-27 Forecast: The Reserve Bank of India has updated its inflation forecast for FY27 to 5.2% from 5.0% previously. This revision comes as retail inflation exceeds the RBI's target for three consecutive months. The rise in crude oil prices and food costs is a significant contributing factor. Additionally, a weaker rupee adds to imported commodity expenses and inflationary pressures. El Niño is also expected to impact food supply, further influencing inflation.

As Thailand cracks down on foreigners, a tourist paradise reconsiders its welcome
Thailand is facing a growing backlash against foreign influence in its tourist hotspots, particularly southern islands such as Koh Phangan, Phuket and Koh Samui. Locals fear foreign investors and businesses are reshaping communities, driving up property prices and pushing residents out.

Auto sales surge in September, but GST base clouds the picture. Can stocks rebound ahead of Q2 results?
India’s auto sector delivered a mixed September, with strong passenger- and commercial-vehicle sales offset by weak tractor and domestic two-wheeler demand. Festive buying could support growth, but rural stress, rising input costs and excess dealer inventory pose risks to margins.

India's sunflower oil imports seen up 30% on duty cut, industry official says
India’s sunflower oil imports are expected to jump 30% to 3.5 million tonnes in 2026-27 after the government cut the basic import duty on crude sunflower oil to zero, making it more competitive. The shift could reduce soyoil imports by about 11%, while overall vegetable oil imports are expected to remain broadly steady at 16.5-17 million tonnes.

Foodgrain output target cut over El Nino impact
Of the overall target, 177.72 mt is expected to come from the rabi season, agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, said at the National Agriculture Conference-Rabi Campaign 2026 Tuesday.

Kharif data gives India a pleasant advance glimpse of the year's pickings; full picture a little while away
Kharif cultivation this season has fallen from last year, but exceeded the five-year average despite lower rainfall. The number coming above five-year average is noteworthy, because monsoon rainfall between June 1 and September 26 was 12% below normal.

El Nino may turn 'very strong' by late 2026: IRI; experts see elevated risk for India
The El Nino weather pattern is expected to strengthen significantly in late 2026 and early 2027. This development raises concerns over increased climate risks for India, particularly regarding monsoon rainfall. The Indian Ocean Dipole is also predicted to become positively strong during this period, which may influence weather patterns. Predictions indicate a 100 percent probability of El Nino conditions until February 2027.

Weather tomorrow, September 27: Heavy rain likely in Uttarakhand, UP and MP, check full India forecast
Weather tomorrow, September 27: It is expected to remain active across India, with several regions likely to see rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds. Uttarakhand faces a warning for extremely heavy rainfall, while parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh could also receive intense showers. Rain is forecast across central, eastern, northeastern and southern states, though conditions will vary by region.

ISRO satellite INSAT-3DS captures contrasting weather across India, here’s what the image shows
The September 24 INSAT-3DS image captured a notable contrast across India, with extensive cloud formations covering central and eastern areas while parts of the northwest remained comparatively clear. The satellite view also showed moisture extending from the Bay of Bengal as a deep depression influenced rainfall across several states, offering a glimpse of the uneven nature of the late-monsoon transition.

AIIB eyes bigger India water funding push as El Niño threatens dry spell
AIIB intends to expand its water sector funding in India, which faces severe drought conditions this monsoon season. The bank is prioritizing water-related projects as extreme weather threatens agricultural growth. It has allocated $13.8 billion in total funding to India since 2016, but only 7% is aimed at water projects.
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