VIABILITY
Equinix seeking land for India data centres: CEO
The world’s largest data centre operator by footprint, valued at nearly $100 billion, has invested $365 million in India and sees significant opportunities in AI inference, the process of using trained models to generate responses and run business applications. Such workloads require proximity to enterprise data, users and networks.
AI boom turns chip packaging into the next battleground for semiconductors
Billions of dollars are being invested in advanced chip packaging due to the demand for AI chips. This growing need is pushing companies to expand their production capacities significantly. Taiwan's TSMC is at the forefront of packaging technology, yet limitations have spurred alternatives.
Noida removes FAR cap on projects along 45-metre roads, paving way for high-rises
Noida’s decision to remove the maximum FAR cap for residential projects along 45-metre roads is expected to encourage high-rise development and increase housing supply. With land prices exceeding ₹200 crore per acre, developers say the move will improve project viability and land use.
Cabinet approves VGF plan for grid-scale energy storage with Rs 14,500 crore support
The Union Cabinet has approved a significant ₹14,500 crore funding scheme to develop 92 GWh of energy storage capacity. This initiative supports both hydro pumped storage and battery energy storage systems aimed at accelerating renewable energy. Additionally, a scheme has been approved for processing critical minerals like lithium and nickel to reduce import dependency. The government aims to modernize its statistical system with a ₹4,371.10 crore scheme.
Government prepares draft sustainable aviation fuels policy; moots mandatory blending in ATF from 2027
The civil aviation ministry has circulated the draft National Policy on Sustainable Aviation Fuels which mandates use of only indigenously manufactured SAF to be blended with Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF).
Ballot questions 2026 results: From Marijuana, abortion rights, transgender athletes, to voter ID -- all polls verdicts are out
Massachusetts ballot questions 2026 results are out and voters have rejected midterm elections attempt to repeal the legalization of Marijuana.
- Go To Page 1

Cabinet approves ₹14,500-crore scheme to add 92 GWh energy storage capacity
The Union Cabinet has approved a significant ₹14,500-crore scheme aimed at developing new energy storage capacity. This funding will support the establishment of 92 GWh of grid-scale energy storage across India. Additionally, 850 fast-track courts will be set up to expedite cases involving child abuse and rape. The government has also created a pathway for the enrollment of 25% of Agniveers in the armed forces.

US midterms 2026: Voters back abortion rights and reject Trump's redistricting in state ballot measures
During the recent midterm elections, abortion-rights supporters marked significant achievements in both Missouri and Virginia, highlighting shifts in voter attitudes. Concurrently, President Donald Trump's redistricting strategies faced backlash in several states. In Florida, an amendment was adopted that offers critical property tax relief to homeowners. Meanwhile, Nebraska solidified transgender medical limitations in its constitution, demonstrating active citizen participation in legislative decisions.

FLY91 plans to expand fleet to 60 aircraft in five years, targets 350 weekly flights: CEO Manoj Chacko
Regional airline FLY91 plans to expand its fleet from six to around 60 aircraft over five years, backed by an order for 40 planes scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2032. The airline also aims to operate nearly 350 weekly flights this winter, prioritising domestic expansion before exploring international routes.

Czech TV, radio workers strike against funding overhaul, warn of threat to independence
Czech public television and radio employees initiated a one-day strike to protest government funding cuts and proposed changes. The planned funding shifts have raised concerns over media independence and potential political influence. Public protests supporting the strike were organized, attracting backing from artists and students. Opposition parties warn that these proposals could undermine democratic media practices, similar to changes seen in Hungary.

India wants more factories, fabs and data centres. Where will the water come from?
India's ambition to become a developed nation by 2047 is constrained by growing water resource challenges. Industries across sectors, including thermal power and semiconductor manufacturing, face water scarcity issues that could hinder growth. Many regions are already experiencing severe water stress, impacting economic development plans drastically. Adopting recycling and reuse technologies will be crucial for managing water in industries effectively.

Pixxel's Indian ownership comes under scrutiny
Pixxel founder and chief executive Awais Ahmed in a blog post on X said the company remains “headquartered, owned, managed and controlled in India,” on Monday. Indian investors, including the founders, collectively hold the largest shareholding in the company, followed by investors from Singapore, the UK and the US, he added.

AI debt surge pushes Magnificent Seven borrowing to $578 billion, up 45%: SBI Research
The combined debt of the seven largest US technology companies, widely known as the Magnificent Seven, has increased nearly 45 per cent to USD 578 billion by mid-2026, raising concerns over the financial risks linked to the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure, according to a report by SBI Research.

Uttarakhand helicopter operators suspend Char Dham flights over DGCA's new two-pilot rule
Helicopter operators in Uttarakhand have decided to suspend their Char Dham charter operations from November 2. This action follows a letter sent to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation expressing their concerns. The operators oppose the new regulation that requires all helicopters to have two crew members on board. They argue that the mandate will significantly impact their financial viability and operational efficiency.

Good intentions, unintended consequences: The cost of regulation
Regulation is vital for protecting consumers and building trust, but unpredictable or poorly calibrated policy changes can disrupt business economics, valuations and investment.

India's 500 GW RE target hinges on LDES scale-up; FY28 viability gap funding key enabler: IESA report
With a target of 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, India recognizes the urgent need for long-duration energy storage solutions. The India Energy Storage Alliance stresses the pivotal role of viability gap funding to promote quicker adoption of these technologies. Current data reveals substantial solar energy curtailment caused by grid restrictions, highlighting the necessity for strategic policy support and innovative business paradigms.

Why are nearly 2,000 MBBS seats vacant in India? Private and state medical authorities ask NMC to step in
Despite numerous rounds of counseling, approximately 2,000 MBBS seats in India still remain empty. High tuition fees are deterring potential candidates from enrolling, especially in states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where significant vacancies persist. Authorities are contemplating lowering eligibility cut-offs to fill these spots, prompting discussions on the accessibility of medical education and its future ramifications for students.

India’s CBG push hits manure bottleneck as plants struggle to find buyers
India’s compressed biogas expansion faces a growing hurdle as plants struggle to sell organic manure generated alongside gas, threatening project viability. With only 217 of 1,908 registered plants commissioned, operators face rising storage costs and underutilisation. Industry executives say the lack of assured manure offtake threatens the sector despite government support.

Anti-cancer medicines: How to protect the patient today without weakening India's healthcare capacity for tomorrow
India should examine trade margins across medicines, medical devices and consumables using a common, scientifically credible method - not a one-size-fits-all formula - to identify where and how intervention is needed. Meaningful stakeholder consultation must form part of this exercise to help design a framework that is both effective and workable. It can ensure that unjustified margins are addressed while recognising legitimate differences in clinical settings, infrastructure, safety requirements, geographical reach and the cost of delivering quality care.

Himalayan Pole: Not just North Pole & South Pole, Sikkim has an idea for third global pole named after yak; here's what it means
Sikkim’s first Himalayan Yak Festival has renewed calls for yak conservation, with Yak Federation of India executive member Thupden Lachungpa proposing a ‘Himalayan Pole’ or ‘Yak Pole’ to highlight the animal’s importance to the region. Held in Gnathang Valley near the India-China border, the festival aims to protect the declining yak population, support herders’ livelihoods and encourage younger generations to take up traditional yak rearing.

Vedanta explores Rs 80,000 crore investment in Bengal for power, aluminium projects: Anil Agarwal
In a promising development, Vedanta's Chairman Anil Agarwal has signaled interest in investing up to Rs 80,000 crore in West Bengal, concentrating on energy and aluminium manufacturing. This venture could generate thousands of jobs, with Asansol identified as a pivotal site due to its resources and infrastructure. Moreover, Agarwal is committed to fostering smaller businesses for downstream industry growth, with thorough feasibility studies to ensure the project's potential success.

Sebi to review FPI compliance norms, issue consultation paper to align with global standards
Sebi Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey stated they will review compliance requirements for foreign portfolio investors in India. A consultation paper will seek feedback on aligning these norms with global standards while ensuring investor protection. This initiative aims to enhance foreign investor participation in domestic markets and streamline access procedures. Additionally, Pandey emphasized the significance of domestic savings along with international capital to support market development.

Indian petrol demand to peak by 2035, says top refiner Indian Oil
Indian petrol demand is projected to peak by the year 2035 as electric vehicles become more prevalent. The chairman of Indian Oil Corp highlighted that ethanol blending and more gas vehicles will also contribute. In contrast, the consumption of diesel and jet fuel is expected to grow due to industrial expansion. Additionally, demand for certain heavy fuel grades like petcoke will rise significantly.

Godzilla Minus Zero vs Ramayana clash: Japanese monster film’s India release pushed back by 2 weeks ahead of Ranbir Kapoor’s epic
Ranbir Kapoor's much-anticipated film Ramayana is set to hit theatres on November 5 this year. In a strategic move, Godzilla Minus Zero has pushed back its release by 2 weeks to enhance its prospects in the Indian box office. Sources indicate that Ramayana will claim a majority of premium large-format screens such as IMAX, thus limiting Godzilla's screen availability, reflecting strategies from past film releases.

US stocks today: US stocks end higher as AI rally lifts Nasdaq ahead of Fed decision
US stocks saw gains as renewed optimism about artificial intelligence lifted chipmakers while corporate earnings were evaluated. Although concerns about AI spending persist, news of Anthropic's IPO provided a relief rally for the sector. The Federal Reserve began its policy meeting, with expectations for interest rates to remain unchanged. Nearly half of S&P 500 companies reported earnings, with many exceeding estimates while some major firms faced declines.

Missouri voted to protect abortion. Why could Amendment 3 take those rights away just two years later?
Missouri voters protected abortion rights in 2024, but those protections face another vote on November 3, 2026.A new Amendment 3 would replace them with an abortion ban carrying limited exceptions.

NABARD proposes roadmap to strengthen cooperatives in Delhi, Cabinet note suggested
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the Draft Diagnostic Study Report on Cooperatives in NCT of Delhi, prepared by NABARD with technical support from NABCONS.

Paper mills seek PM’s intervention as coal costs surge 50% in two months
The Indian Paper Manufacturers Association has appealed to the Prime Minister for assistance with inadequate coal supplies. Escalating coal costs and irregular railway rake availability are significantly impacting paper mill operations across India. The Association stressed that higher fuel costs are straining manufacturing economics while domestic producers face competition from imports. They requested priority coal allocation for the pulp and paper industry’s captive power plants.

Singapore launches first LNG term supply tender, weighs third import terminal
Singapore’s state gas buyer GasCo has launched its first LNG procurement exercise to secure long-term supplies as the country prepares to expand gas-fired power generation. Singapore, which relies on natural gas for about 95% of its electricity, is also exploring a third LNG import terminal. The government plans to add five gas-fired power plants, increasing generation capacity by around 26% early next decade.
Load More