SOCIAL REFORM
Lula da Silva: A metalworker who rose from poverty to reclaim Brazil's presidency
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has secured a fourth, non-consecutive term as Brazil’s president, defeating Flávio Bolsonaro in a fiercely contested election. The victory strengthens the left’s position in Latin America amid Donald Trump’s growing influence, marking another remarkable comeback for the former metalworker who overcame corruption convictions and imprisonment.
Brazil presidential election results: Five economic challenges facing re-elected President Lula
Brazil's economy is encountering significant challenges as President Lula starts his fourth term in January. Soaring public debt and rising mandatory spending limit budget flexibility, complicating fiscal management. High interest rates and persistent inflation hinder economic growth, impacting household and business debt levels. Lula's ability to implement reforms may be constrained by a conservative Congress, complicating his agenda.
Who was Nigel Durham? Saxon drummer dies at 61 months after denying death hoax in July
Nigel Durham drummer: Former Saxon drummer Nigel Durham has died at 61, months after dismissing false death rumours in July. Durham had faced false reports of his death just months earlier. Here's a look at his musical career, his time with Saxon and the bands he played with after leaving the heavy metal group.
Parliamentary Committee on Finance to examine 46 economic issues, including virtual digital assets, AI, in FY'27
Parliament’s Standing Committee on Finance, chaired by BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, has selected 46 subjects for examination in 2026-27, including artificial intelligence in finance, virtual digital assets, currency management and financial sector regulation.
Global Market: French bond selloff raises debt concerns across Europe amid social unrest
French 10-year bond yields surged above 5%, reaching a 24-year high, as fiscal deficits, political deadlock and social unrest unsettled investors. Rising borrowing costs are spreading to Italy and Belgium, intensifying concerns over eurozone debt sustainability, fiscal reforms and the region’s financial stability amid mounting economic pressures and uncertainty.
GST return forms likely to be tweaked to curb mismatches
The government is looking to revamp GST return forms to minimise discrepancies between reported sales and tax payments. Draft forms will be available for public feedback starting November 1 and the changes take effect on April 1, 2027.
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NSDC raises Rs 4 crore through Social Stock Exchange for global skilling initiative
The funds raised will be used to provide skilling and employment opportunities to 600 youth from economically weaker other backward classes (OBC) households in Madhya Pradesh. The programme, with an estimated outlay of Rs 11.25 crore, aims to prepare 600 candidates for international employment opportunities, with 300 candidates earmarked for Japan and another 300 for Germany, the ministry of skills development and entrepreneurship said in a statement on Thursday.
Building India’s future food system
The future of India’s food system must be examined through three interconnected pillars: availability, accessibility, and affordability.
Social Security gets a 3.6% raise in 2027, but a 22% cut looms by 2032: Could a 40% payroll tax hike make Millennials and Gen Z pay more?
Your Social Security payment will rise 3.6% in January 2027, about $75 more a month on average. But the bigger story is 2032, when the retirement fund runs dry and benefits could be cut 22%. Fixing it may mean higher payroll taxes for workers, and the clock is already ticking.
PSBs step up AI adoption, cyber resilience under EASE₹ise 8.0 reforms
Public sector banks in India are focusing on adopting artificial intelligence and enhancing cyber security measures. They are modernizing their banking systems to ensure better customer service and financial inclusion. The efforts outlined in the EASE₹ise 8.0 Annual Report aim to strengthen the resilience of these banks. Additionally, banks are developing frameworks to assess climate-related risks and improve accessibility for various groups.
France’s proud tradition of protests
France is witnessing significant protests involving thousands of participants expressing grievances about living costs and police methods. Recent upheavals have seen violent clashes, looting, and numerous arrests across the country's cities. This protest culture, born from the historical French Revolution, continues to shape civic engagement today. Critics argue that the government's response to these protests has fueled distrust among citizens.
From Dhirubhai to Akash Ambani, Reliance made stocks popular with Indians
Jio Platforms’ IPO is putting the Ambani family’s relationship with India’s retail investors on a new footing, almost five decades after Dhirubhai Ambani took Reliance Textile Industries public in 1977. The Rs 30,213-crore issue was fully subscribed within two hours of opening, but Jio’s long-term success as a listed company will depend on whether it can turn its massive telecom and digital reach into sustained earnings growth and investor returns.
Global Market: Eurozone banking crisis fears return as government borrowing costs surge
Rising euro zone borrowing costs have renewed fears of a sovereign debt crisis, particularly in France. European banks’ stronger capital buffers, diversified bond holdings and tighter regulation offer protection, but prolonged market volatility could increase funding costs, weaken profitability and revive investor concerns over banks’ exposure to government debt.
With France embroiled in protest, a look at the nation's economic standing by the numbers
France is grappling with significant economic challenges as public debt continues to rise, exceeding 119% of GDP. Government spending represents a substantial portion of the economy, reaching 57.2%, which constrains fiscal options. The country has recently reported low growth predictions, with only 0.4% expected for the upcoming period. Comparatively, borrowing costs for France are higher than those for Germany, impacting public service funding.
Government to review 2019 mineral policy amid new sector priorities
The Centre is initiating a review of the National Mineral Policy, 2019, to address current sector demands. A nine-member committee will review the policy to reflect recent developments, especially in critical minerals. The committee is expected to submit recommendations within two months after its formation. Experts emphasize the need for a revised policy to enhance India's mineral potential and investment.
Permanent India UNSC seat an 'obvious element' of global governance reform: Polish envoy
Poland's Ambassador to India affirmed support for India's permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. This endorsement aligns with broader reforms in global governance that recognize emerging powers from the Global South. India has been praised for its diplomatic efforts concerning the Russia-Ukraine war, promoting peace and dialogue. A potential trilateral summit between Russia, the United States, and China could address this conflict further.
France is on fire but something more dangerous burns below the unrest
France is engulfed in protests as the public gives vent to growing anger over soaring expenses and diminishing educational quality. Citizens are voicing their demands for improved services, yet the government grapples with managing an overwhelming public debt. Amid budget cuts proposed by President Macron's administration, increasing political challenges may hinder these efforts.
US midterm elections 2026: What could change for H-1B & green cards as US' immigration rules face a poll test
The looming US midterm elections are set to play a crucial role in shaping immigration policy, particularly concerning H-1B visas. Various proposals are under consideration that could reshape how employment-based green cards are processed and issued. With lawmakers from both sides offering contrasting changes, the outcome of these elections will be vital in influencing potential reforms, as current administrative policies and congressional actions will dictate future immigration frameworks.
Brazil elections: Lula, Bolsonaro face off in first debate ahead of Presidential runoff
Brazil's presidential election runoff includes a crucial debate between President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro. Lula's campaign has shifted, engaging younger influencers for improved social media strategies to connect with voters. Bolsonaro has criticized Lula's promises, accusing him of deceiving people for electoral gain. Recent polls show a tightening race, and both candidates are ramping up their efforts.
'Anti-democratic, emergency-style mindset': BJP's CR Kesavan counters P Chidambaram, slams Rahul Gandhi
Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson CR Kesavan criticized Rahul Gandhi for associating with advocates of regime change. He stated that Gandhi's silence on the issue reflects an anti-democratic mindset. This response came after P Chidambaram defended the use of the term 'regime change' as a legitimate political process. The ongoing agitation against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has intensified tensions between the BJP and Congress.
'India needs 8-9% growth to become a developed nation by 2047'
India aims to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047, from its current size of around $4 trillion. The country's gross domestic product (GDP) grew 7.8% in the June quarter, exceeding expectations.
Nirmala Sitharaman pitches for public, private capital to build financially sustainable cities
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the importance of creating sustainably investable cities in India. She proposed a combination of public investment alongside private capital to achieve these goals. Various urban development initiatives have been established to support this approach effectively. The Urban Challenge Fund aims to improve municipal finances and is pivotal for project preparation. Overall, the strategies discussed will enhance urban planning and infrastructure development throughout the country.
EC carries Special Summary Revision to silence opposition after voter deletions in SIR: DMK
The opposition DMK alleges that the Special Summary Revision is intended to appease parties after voter removals. Senior leader T K S Elangovan expressed concerns over the election process and criticized the Chief Minister's lack of accountability. He called the Election Commission's actions biased towards the ruling party at the Centre. Elangovan supported complaints about MLA poaching and noted neglect of fishermen's issues.
IMF applauds India’s GDP data revamp, says currency pain is no sign of failure as country entered energy shock with strong fundamentals
The International Monetary Fund has raised India's growth forecast to 7% for this year and next. India is seen as having strong fundamentals which allow it to manage external pressures effectively. The exchange rate fluctuations are not indicative of economic failure according to IMF officials. Structural reforms and domestic demand contribute to India's resilience in the global economy. However, risks such as geopolitical tensions and fiscal pressures remain present.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expands drought-hit talukas to 305, announces ₹5,000 Diwali bonus for farmers
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the expansion of the drought declaration to 305 talukas. A Diwali bonus of ₹5,000 will be deposited into farmers' accounts to alleviate financial distress. The government is also monitoring drinking water supply and combating severe water scarcity with GPS-tracked tankers. Fadnavis praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his contributions to infrastructure and welfare projects in Maharashtra.
Neha Bora age, education, father, family, Delhi protest: Things people are searching about AISA president on Google
Neha Bora Protest: Neha Bora, the national president of AISA, has drawn attention following protests in Delhi against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Here is what to know about her age, educational qualifications, father, family background, student politics and recent protests.
GST reforms: What changes in compliance, input tax credit, refunds and litigation from 2027
The latest changes proposed by the GST Council will help cut costs and ease cash flow for companies. To curb cascading tax, ease working capital pressures and reduce disputes, the Council has reduced ITC restrictions on expenses such as health and life insurance and out door catering. It has also allowed refunds of accumulated ITC on input services in specified inverted duty cases for eligible credits from 1 November 2026.
Child marriage: Progress made, but millions of girls still at risk in India, say experts
India still exhibits troubling child marriage rates, with one in three child brides globally residing in the country. Significant improvement has been made, with current prevalence declining from over 50 percent in 1996 to slightly above 20 percent. However, regional disparities suggest that some states still face acute challenges regarding early marriages. Continued efforts and targeted strategies are deemed essential for reducing these rates before the 2030 target.
Parliamentary panel indicts NTA; hope 'arrogant' Modi govt takes it seriously: Congress
Congress raised serious issues regarding the National Testing Agency, including malpractice and incompetence. A recent Parliamentary Standing Committee report outlines claims of paper leaks since 2017, contradicting official statements. The NTA's structure lacks accountability, as it heavily relies on private contractors for examinations. Additionally, the agency has earned significant revenue but failed to invest in improving examination infrastructure.
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