The Economic Times

India is seeking to raise its global toy market share from under 1% to 5% by 2032, after higher import duties, safety standards and government support helped domestic manufacturers challenge Chinese imports. Toy exports reached $186 million in FY26. However, fragmented production, limited scale, dependence on Chinese components and weak brand ownership remain key challenges to becoming a major global toy exporter.

Renault is rapidly expanding its Indian market presence with new vehicle models. The company plans to introduce factory-fitted CNG and updated powertrains soon. Next-generation electronic architecture will feature in value segment vehicles. Renault aims to become a top three global market by 2030.

During a seven-month odyssey in 1974, Steve Jobs explored the depths of spiritual enlightenment across India. Travelling on a shoestring budget, he resided in various villages and temples, exposing himself to alternative ways of living. Read on to know more about Steve Jobs' journey before founding Apple.

India's economy grew at a brisk 7.8% pace in the recent quarter. Manufacturing, construction, and services sectors drove this strong economic expansion. Household demand also remained a consistent source of economic strength. Gross fixed capital formation reached an all-time high, indicating increased spending. Economists anticipate this investment momentum will continue supporting future growth.

Congress leader P Chidambaram has flagged Indias 106th position among 179 countries in V-Dems Electoral Democracy Index. India scored 0.38 for 2025, its lowest since 1975, according to V-Dem, which classifies the country as an electoral autocracy.

JSW MG Motor India saw a fourteen percent sales increase in August. The company reported wholesales reaching seven thousand five hundred eight units. This growth occurred across both ICE and New Energy Vehicle portfolios. The new Tomahawk SUV was launched with EV and PHEV options. Dispatches of the MG Hector Tomahawk EV have now commenced.

'India continues to progress rapidly': PM Modi hails India's 7.8% GDP growth

School Holidays in September: In September 2026, various Indian states will celebrate a range of festival holidays, including Janmashtami on September 4 and Ganesh Chaturthi on September 14, both of which hold special significance. Other notable holidays include Vishwakarma Puja on September 17 and Anant Chaturdashi on September 25. It's important for students to confirm the precise dates with their educational institutions to ensure accurate observance.

Following a critical oil crisis, India has surfaced as a pivotal fuel supplier. Refineries reached peak performance, promoting export expansion. This development facilitated fuel provision to nations like Kenya. Nonetheless, the crisis underscored India's reliance on Gulf gas sources, emphasizing the need for varied suppliers and robust strategic oil reserves for future preparedness.

India's first quarter GDP expansion reached 7.8 percent, exceeding market expectations. This growth reflects strong domestic economic activity and government reforms. Experts noted that sustained expansion requires higher private investment rates. Future growth depends on productivity, manufacturing, exports, and employment generation. Overall full-year growth outlook remains healthy despite expected moderation.

2027 Kawasaki Ninja 500 India Price: Check price, specifications, features, mileage, top speed and other key details: Kawasaki has officially unveiled its highly anticipated 2027 Ninja 500 model in India, showcasing an eye-catching updated Lime Green color. Motorcycle enthusiasts can now secure their ride by booking at authorized dealerships nationwide. Deliveries for this impressive model are set to begin in late August 2026, with a competitive pricing tag of Rs 5.76 lakh ex-showroom.

India has evacuated 158 citizens from Nepal following devastating floods. Specialized Indian forensics and tunnel rescue teams are assisting Nepal's ongoing operations. These teams are coordinating with Nepalese counterparts on technical and forensic matters. Humanitarian aid, including essential supplies, has also been delivered to Kathmandu. Rescue efforts continue despite challenging weather and access conditions.

Operating under a fresh local entity fully registered with India's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) and compliant with local tax frameworks, Coinbase has achieved a major competitive breakthrough: a custom-built, bespoke Indian Rupee (INR) on-ramp and off-ramp.

Toxic experiences a dip in box office earnings after a strong debut weekend. Collecting in single digits in India on day six, the film's worldwide totals now stand at Rs 304.05 crore. Headlined by Yash, Toxic also features Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth and Nayanthara.

India's economy demonstrated remarkable strength with a 7.8% growth rate in the June quarter, outpacing earlier estimates and navigating through global economic uncertainties. The surge was fueled by strong investments and robust manufacturing output. Furthermore, the services sector emerged as an essential driver of growth, hinting at a bright outlook as forecasts indicate ongoing economic resilience for the nation.

Gurgaon entrepreneur Jasveer Singh has questioned why sleeping until 9 am is often associated with laziness while waking at 5 am is praised in many Indian households. The Knot Dating co-founder argued that adequate sleep should matter more than the clock time of waking. His post triggered a debate over traditional early-rising advice, sleep habits and the meaning of discipline.

India has rejected an award from the World Bank's Court of Arbitration concerning the Indus Waters Treaty. The Ministry of External Affairs stated the court is illegally constituted and lacks jurisdiction over the matter. India categorically rejects the court's pronouncements and considers them to have no effect. The court had previously stated the treaty remains fully in force for India.

India's educated youth face frustration as job opportunities lag behind rising aspirations. This growing cohort feels upward mobility is blocked despite educational achievements. Politicians may offer unemployment doles as a quick electoral fix for this group. Cash transfers to unemployed youth are already a trend in several Indian states. Future elections will focus on delivering jobs that match these increasing expectations.

Indian businesses are actively redesigning supply chains for resilience and growth. Supplier diversification and strategic inventory are key priorities for companies. Technology adoption and entry into new markets are also significant drivers. India's trade growth will be defined by resilience and connectivity. Businesses are positioning inventory closer to customers for better market access.

School assembly news headlines September 1: Get the latest updates across India, the world, sports and business. Todays key stories include the launch of Semicon 2.0, Delhis draft electoral roll, developments in Nepal, PM Modis diplomatic engagements, major US Open results, Indias womens Asia Cup win and new railway and uranium cooperation initiatives.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is redefining the narrative of Hindutva by promoting inclusivity, asserting that Muslims hold a rightful place in India. His international outreach focuses on themes of service and global unity, aimed at expanding the organizations influence. The RSS aims to reframe its vision of nationalism to embrace and celebrate religious diversity across the nation.

CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke urged the Bharatiya Janata Party to heed RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's counsel. Dipke stated the ruling party mistakenly believes it surpasses its parent organization. Bhagwat recently asserted that anyone disallowing Muslims in India is not Hindu. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's label for protesting youth was also criticized by Dipke.

A court hearing for the Shahi Jama Masjid-Harihar temple dispute was postponed to September 29. This postponement occurred due to an interim stay imposed by the Supreme Court in November 2024. The legal dispute began when Hindu petitioners claimed the mosque was built over a temple. Following a court-ordered survey, unrest led to deaths and injuries in November 2025. The matter remains stayed pending further Supreme Court directives.

The Supreme Court is set to consider setting up a special bench regarding the OBC creamy-layer ruling, which holds significance for the selections of the Civil Services Examination 2025. The govt aims to revert to previous criteria for 958 candidates to ensure fairness for earlier applicants. The court will consult with judges prior to making a decision.

The Supreme Court has denied journalist Tarun Tejpal's request to be exempted from surrendering. Following his conviction, he is required to surrender within a two-week timeframe. The Bombay High Court has imposed a ten-year rigorous imprisonment sentence on him, reversing a prior trial court acquittal. Tejpal's appeal contesting the conviction is set to be addressed in the future.

The Supreme Court advised Tamil Nadu to approach the Cauvery Water Management Authority. This follows Tamil Nadu's plea for Karnataka to release its due water share. The court noted Tamil Nadu had previously received more water than allocated. Tamil Nadu's counsel argued the authority had not directed proportionate water release. The matter will be heard again on August 31.

The Supreme Court has directed a committee to prioritize sexual assault complaints. This committee was established to investigate police violence during recent NEET protests. Senior advocate Shobha Gupta requested the court to take suo motu cognisance of these allegations. The High-Powered Enquiry Committee will examine these serious matters on a priority basis.

Nicholas Bandurak put England ahead in the 13th minute but India fought back and took 2-1 lead through goals from captain Harmanpreet Singh (16th) and Dilpreet Singh (24th) in the Pool D match.

A total of 210 Indian peacekeepers were honored with UN medals for their exceptional service in South Sudan. These brave soldiers showcased remarkable courage and compassion amidst crises and medical emergencies. India plays a crucial role in global UN peacekeeping efforts, with over 4,200 personnel actively involved in missions around the world.

India's GDP growth forecast stands at seven percent for the April-June quarter, marking a four-quarter low and a slowdown from prior growth rates. The industrial sector is projected to expand by seven point seven percent, with agriculture and services also seeing improvements. Overall growth is expected to moderate, yet nominal GDP growth is set to reach a remarkable four-year high.

Indian Army chief General Dhiraj Seth was conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army by President Ramchandra Paudel during his Nepal visit. The honour reflects a longstanding reciprocal military tradition between India and Nepal. Seth also held talks with Nepali Army chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel and discussed strengthening bilateral defence ties.

India and Armenia explored new avenues to bolster defence cooperation. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met with Armenia's Defence Minister Suren Papikyan. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen the defence partnership. Singh's visit aims to chart the course for future strategic cooperation. The meeting took place in Yerevan on Monday.

India has facilitated fresh agricultural and processed food exports in July. These items found buyers in new overseas markets, widening the country's export palette. Shipments included mangoes, cherries, French fries, and turmeric to various nations. Exporters are stepping up efforts to diversify markets beyond traditional commodities.

India's reverence for snakes goes far beyond mythology. From Agumbe's king cobra research forests to Chennai's historic snake park, these seven destinations let you see these creatures in their actual element. This Nag Panchami, that might be the most fitting way to truly appreciate what the festival is about.

Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth received the Honorary General rank from Nepal's President. He arrived in Nepal for a four-day official visit at the invitation of his Nepalese counterpart. General Seth met with Nepalese Army officials to discuss strengthening bilateral military relations. He also met with the Indian Ambassador to further comprehensive relations between the two nations.

Indrajaal Autonomous Defense Systems and Sigma Advanced Systems have announced government orders worth approximately Rs 155 crore for the Indrajaal Ranger mobile counter-drone platform. The orders include Rs 145 crore for border-security deployment and around Rs 10 crore for urban police and VVIP security, expanding the system's intended use beyond fixed installations.

Yoga guru Ramdev said Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan would eventually reintegrate with India and urged patience. He also said no major religion was under threat in India, while calling for stronger national unity and opposing religious conversions.

India's unemployment rate fell to 5.1% in July 2026, showing positive labor market trends. Both labor force participation and worker population ratios saw notable improvements across the nation. Rural unemployment decreased significantly, while urban rates remained relatively stable during this period. Male unemployment declined month-on-month and year-on-year, indicating positive shifts. Female labor force participation and worker population ratios also experienced a substantial increase.

India and Thailand are conducting Exercise Maitree from August 18 to August 31. This joint military exercise will enhance combined capabilities in counter-insurgency operations. Troops from the Indian Army and Royal Thai Army will participate in this event. The exercise focuses on operations in jungle and semi-urban environments.

The Ministry of Defence has contracted General Atomics for two Sea Guardian drones. These advanced remotely piloted aircraft systems will serve the Indian Navy for thirty months. The contract, valued at approximately Rs 1,943 crore, was signed on August 17, 2026. These drones will significantly boost the Navy's maritime domain awareness capabilities. Persistent surveillance will strengthen India's monitoring across the Indian Ocean Region.

Concluding their first innings at 462 runs on the third day, India showcased a remarkable performance with Devdutt Padikkal scoring 167 runs. Asitha Fernando, who took the final Indian wicket, added to his figures. The standout bowler for Sri Lanka, Prabath Jayasuriya, achieved four wickets, especially after rain had caused disruptions on the second day.

BGMI Lite Krafton: Battlegrounds Mobile India Lite is set to make its debut in India by the end of 2026, as confirmed by Krafton India. This streamlined version aims at catering to gamers using budget-friendly and older smartphones. Insights from PUBG Mobile Lite suggest exciting features for BGMI Lite. Stay tuned for more updates as the launch date approaches.