New rules for small company loans were released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), giving banks more leeway in determining how much extra interest or spread to charge over the course of the loan.

The Reserve Bank of India has also loosened lending regulations for companies that use gold as a raw material.

The acquisition of gold or silver in any form, as well as lending secured by primary gold or silver, are generally forbidden for banks. However, the statement stated that Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) have been given permission to issue working capital loans to jewelers.

Previously, banks could only adjust the spread associated with a borrower’s credit risk once every three years when it came to commercial loans.

In order to help borrowers, banks are now permitted to lower additional spread components before the three-year period under the new regulation. At the time of reset, borrowers will also have the choice to convert to a fixed-rate loan.

The jewelry industry, which previously had few exceptions for financing the purchase of gold and silver, is now able to receive credit through working capital loans from banks to any business that uses gold as a raw material.

Three of the RBI’s seven directives for lenders are required, while the remaining four are available for discussion. The RBI has until October 20 to receive input on these initiatives.

The central bank has extended the accessibility of credit by increasing the involvement of smaller urban cooperatives in lending.

Additionally, capital regulations have been relaxed, allowing banks to employ overseas rupee and foreign currency bonds as Additional Tier 1 capital, which facilitates access to international markets.

Credit Institutions (CIs) were required by the RBI’s directive to submit credit information to Credit Information Companies (CICs) every two weeks or less frequently.

The RBI has now suggested that CIs submit credit information to CICs once a week.

According to the statement, the draft amendments also call for actions to speed up data reporting and error correction by the CIs.

Additionally, it is suggested that the Central Know Your Customer (CKYC) number be included in a distinct section in the consumer segment’s reporting format in order to make it easier for CICs to aggregate credit data, the announcement stated.

A revised electronic challan-cum-return (ECR) method was introduced by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) beginning with the September salary month, as per the Central Provident Fund Commissioner‘s most recent announcement. This is meant to help businesses and employers file returns more easily and accurately.

The new facility divides the creation of payments from the return submission process. Additionally, system-based validations are included to stop improper returns from being filed.

In accordance with Employees’ Provident Funds Act sections 14B and 7Q, the revised system will compute interest and damages automatically.

Along with monthly contributions, it will also require employers to pay interest under section 7Q.

While Section 14B permits EPFO to apply penalties for payment defaults, Section 7Q mandates that employers pay interest on outstanding balances until the date of payment.

The current return file format (.txt) will not change in spite of the modifications. The technology will allow employers to submit regular, supplemental, or amended returns.

The action is part of an effort to make the organization more user-friendly, according to an EPFO representative.

It is anticipated that the modifications will lessen data-entry errors that previously made submitting returns difficult.

Additionally, the updated system would assist in preventing mistakes in Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) pension contributions.

For example, many businesses erroneously pay contributions under the EPS heading even though employees making more than Rs 15,000 per month are not eligible. To ensure accurate submissions, the new system will highlight such mistakes prior to filing.

In a similar vein, unless an employee chooses to participate in deferred pension, EPS participation expires at age 58.

Previously, there were complaints because the system did not halt payments to the pension fund for workers above the age of 58.

The updated ECR will now automatically limit contributions after 58 years unless the employer designates them as delayed pensions.

The EPFO anticipates that these steps will make compliance easier, cut down on errors, and provide businesses and employees more clarity.

Tilak Varma became India’s hero on a night full of drama, tension, and high stakes when he scored an undefeated 69 to lead his team to a five-wicket triumph over bitter rivals Pakistan and secure the Asia Cup for the ninth time at the Dubai International Stadium.

Fans celebrated the historic victory with chanting, fireworks, and a flurry of activity on social media in cities, towns, and villages.

India’s chase got off to a rough start. The scoreboard read grimly against the men in blue, and fans were left gnawing their nails when three wickets fell for just 20 runs.

With the composure of an experienced player, Tilak, however, steadied the innings. He navigated India through the anxious periods and crossed the finish line with two balls remaining by combining sharp strokes with soaring sixes.

He hit three boundaries and four enormous sixes. Each shot conveyed a sense of timing, endurance, and boldness—the ideal combination for an emotionally powerful finale.

After Pakistan had swept to 113/1 in 12.4 overs, India’s bowlers orchestrated a stunning comeback, setting the stage for Tilak’s heroics. The star of the show was Kuldeep Yadav, who destroyed Pakistan’s middle and lower order with four wickets, including three in a single over.

With the vital assistance of Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Jasprit Bumrah, Pakistan was bowled out for 146 in just 19.1 overs.

Pakistan enjoyed a strong start to their innings. A competitive total was promised by half-centuries from Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46), but the subsequent stunning collapse—nine wickets going for only 33 runs—displayed India’s astute bowling, vigilant fielding, and capacity to perform under duress.

In the end, the match was characterized by Tilak Varma’s composed genius. He led India through a tense final to a historic victory by anchoring the chase when others faltered.

India’s triumph demonstrated cooperation, tenacity, and the excitement of one of cricket’s most intense rivalries. For supporters, it was a memorable final; for Tilak, it was a performance that would go down in Asia Cup legend.

“The boys gave a fantastic show tonight. In the second inning, we were a little behind the game. Our power play with the bat wasn’t the best. The guys used the ball to summarize the situation. At the post-match presentation, India bowling coach Morne Morkel remarked, “Nice opportunity for (Shivam) Dube, and he set the tone beautifully, and what a way to finish with the bat.”

India’s triumph was more than just a sporting accomplishment; it was a moment of national pride and happiness. The victory demonstrated Team India’s talent, poise, and cooperation, and supporters are now anticipating the team’s upcoming international contests.

After the victory, Team India Captain, Suryakumar told the reporters that he had never seen something like this in his cricketing career. “It is unprecedented for a winning team to be disqualified from receiving the trophy. I thought the boys deserved the accolades because we put up a good fight and played two fierce games in a short period of time. He said, “I don’t want to say much more, but it was disappointing.”

The captain, however, referred to his teammates and support staff as the “real trophies” of the campaign and thanked them. I have 14 trophies in my dressing room already, if you ask me, and they belong to my staff and players. I will always cherish the moments we made at this Asia Cup,” he continued.

In order to help our Armed Forces and the families of those killed in the Pahalgam terror assault, I have made the decision to give my match fees from this competition. I never stop thinking about you,” Suryakumar Yadav remarked.

Also read: Asia Cup 2025: Know About Match Schedule

Memes, congratulations, and tributes to the team’s top performers were all over social media.

On the field, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to it as “Operation Sindoor” and declared that India had won once more.

“#OperationSindoor on the field of play.” The result is the same: India prevails! Shortly after the win, Modi wrote on X, “Congratulations to our cricketers.”

As he praised the Indian cricket team for their outstanding performance, Home Minister Amit Shah brought up the recent armed conflict between India and Pakistan.

“A tremendous triumph. Our boys’ ferocious energy destroyed the competitors once more. In his post on X, Home Minister Amit Shah stated, “Bharat is bound to win in any field.”

India’s decisive five-wicket victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup final in Dubai was hailed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as a “powerful statement on and off the field.”

The BCCI said in a succinct but forceful social media post: “3 blows. No answer. Asia Cup winners. The message was delivered. The squad and support personnel will receive 21 crores in prize money.

In addition to demonstrating skill and poise, Team India’s victory conveyed a powerful message of supremacy on the continental scene, and the BCCI’s recognition highlighted the accomplishment’s importance for both players and support personnel.

India’s management had asked who will be presenting the silverware prior to the ceremony. Khalid Al Zarooni, vice-chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board, expressed their willingness to accept it, but Naqvi reportedly turned down the offer.

The Indian side made it apparent that they would not take the trophy from Naqvi when he eventually took the dais. Shortly after, the trophy was stealthily taken out of the arena, depriving the winners of their award.

The diplomatic drama that followed what should have been a night of joy raised concerns about cricket administration in the area.

The last Asia Cup Super Fours match was forced into a super-over on Friday night when Charith Asalanka’s Sri Lanka put on an outstanding batting display and finished with the same score as India. It was a batting feast at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Sri Lanka finished at 202/5 after chasing 203 runs for victory, tying India. Kusal Perera and Dasun Shanaka came out to play the Super Over, but Arshdeep Singh took a wicket off the first and sixth deliveries as Sri Lanka could only score two runs, handing India a final target of three runs.

Suryakumar Yadav, the captain, faced the opening ball as he and his deputy Shubman Gill came out for the chase. He only needed one delivery to end the match, and the two scored three runs off it to secure an incredible victory.

Earlier, when India set a target of 203, Sri Lankan spinners gave up a lot of runs. However, with Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka dominating at bat, the Indian spinners were unable to hold the opposition hitters.

Hardik Pandya’s dismissal of Kusal Mendis for a golden duck gave India a strong start to their defending efforts, but they were unable to stop the opposition’s top-order, which took charge and ultimately won the match.

Sri Lanka finished the Power-play with 72 runs scored thanks to a fantastic 127-run partnership between Perera and Nissanka. The Indian bowlers were astonished by the pair’s relentless play.

Also read: Asia Cup 2025: Know About Match Schedule

When Varun Chakaravarthy wove a web to trap Perera late in the 13th over, India finally made progress. As Perera came down the track to thump the ball, the World No. 1 T20I bowler delivered it down outside off at a flatter length. But Sanju Samson swiftly disassembled the bails, and he miscalculated the line entirely.

After taking quick wickets in the middle, Sri Lanka briefly lost momentum when Asalanka and Kamindu Mendis were removed by Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh. Nevertheless, Nissanka scored a wonderful first century and dominated with a brilliant knock.

In the end, Sri Lanka needed 23 runs from the final two overs, which was lowered to 12 runs from the final six balls as they got closer to the goal. Harshit Rana kept the opposition hitters on edge by dismissing Nissanka on the opening delivery of the last over as the pressure increased.

But after scoring 202 runs in their 20 overs, the Sri Lankan batsmen forced the match into a Super Over. There, they were unable to do much with the bat as India easily chased down the three-run target to win.

Brief scores:

India 202/5 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 61, Tilak Varma 49*; Maheesh Theekshana 1-36, Charith Asalanka 1-18)
Sri Lanka 202/5 in 20 overs (Pathum Nissanka 107, Kusal Perera 58; Kuldeep Yadav 1-31, Varun Chakaravarthy 1-31, Hardik Pandya 1-7)

Super Over: Sri Lanka 2/2 in 1 over (Arshdeep 2-2) lost to India 3/0 in 0.1 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 3 not out).

With a nomination for an International Emmy Award, Punjabi worldwide superstar Diljit Dosanjh has further cemented his fame and skill on a global scale.

The actor’s performance in the biopic “Amar Singh Chamkila” has earned him a nomination for Best Actor in a Lead Role. Imtiaz Ali co-wrote and directed the Hindi-biographical drama film, which stars Parineeti Chopra as Chamkila’s wife and Diljit Dosanjh as the title character.

Known as the “Elvis of Punjab,” Chamkila’s provocative songs enthralled rural Punjab in the 1980s. The story tackles topics of caste, desire, and conservatism by fusing performance scenes with the societal realities that inspired Chamkila’s lyrics.

Diljit Dosanjh, the Punjabi global superstar, has further solidified his notoriety and talent on a global level with a nomination for an International Emmy Award.

A nomination for Best Actor in a Lead Role has been given to the actor for his work in the biopic “Amar Singh Chamkila”. The Hindi-biographical drama film, which was co-written and directed by Imtiaz Ali, features Diljit Dosanjh as the eponymous character and Parineeti Chopra as Chamkila’s wife.

In 2024, he also made an appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” where he gave a lively, upbeat performance of “Born to Shine” and “G.O.A.T.” Jimmy Fallon joined in the excitement on stage and referred to him as “the biggest Punjabi artiste on the planet.”

Diljit has brought regional music to a worldwide audience by fusing traditional Punjabi sounds with modern beats. His accomplishments demonstrate how Indian musicians are becoming more well-known worldwide in popular music and cultural events.

The 53rd International Emmy Awards will take place in New York City on November 24, 2025.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India has three strengths: diversity, demand, and scale. He added that the nation produces all kinds of fruits, vegetables, and grains, which gives it a special place in the world economy.

Speaking to a crowd at the “World Food India 2025” event at Bharat Mandapam in this city, the prime minister stated that before investing, any investor considers a location’s inherent advantages.

He emphasized that investors from around the world, particularly those in the food industry, are now quite optimistic about India.

According to PM Modi, India’s great culinary diversity is reflected in the food and flavors that change every 100 kilometers. The prime minister emphasized that India has a competitive advantage and is a top investment destination because of its robust domestic demand.

“India is functioning on a scale that has never been seen before. The Prime Minister said that 25 crore people have risen out of poverty in the last ten years and are now part of the neo middle class, which is India’s most vibrant and aspiring demographic. The aspirations of this class are influencing food trends and driving consumption.

He emphasized that the food industry is just one of several industries where India’s bright young people are innovating.

With numerous start-ups operating in the food and agriculture industries, Modi declared that India is now the third-largest start-up ecosystem in the world. He also noted that the industry is integrating technology like artificial intelligence (AI), e-commerce, drones, and apps, which are revolutionizing supply chains, retail, and processing techniques.

He confirmed that the main reasons India is the most desirable place to invest are its diversity, demand, and innovation.

“Now is the right time to invest and expand in India,” the Prime Minister said, restating his message from the Red Fort.

“The government is strengthening the entire food and nutrition ecosystem by engaging every stakeholder,” the Prime Minister said, highlighting India’s commitment to increasing its capabilities and contribution in the global interest.

He emphasized that 100% FDI is now allowed and that the food processing industry is being actively encouraged. He pointed out that the PLI program and the growth of giant food parks had also helped the industry. India is currently operating the biggest storage infrastructure project in the world, Modi said.

PM Modi confirmed that the government’s efforts are paying off, as processed food exports have more than doubled and India’s processing capacity has grown twentyfold in the last ten years.

PM Modi said that the government is assisting these groups through credit-linked subsidies and that Rs 800 crore has already been disbursed to recipients, pointing out that self-help groups, which comprise crores of people throughout India, are running micro food processing units.

He emphasized the government’s efforts to connect lakhs of small farmers through Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), of which 10,000 have been founded since 2014.

The Prime Minister declared, “India is moving forward on a new path of innovation and reforms, with widespread discussion around the Next Generation GST reforms,” emphasizing that these reforms will benefit farmers by lowering costs and increasing profits.

At the Dubai International Cricket Stadium here on Wednesday, India crushed Bangladesh by 41 runs to advance to the Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 final. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy were outstanding with the ball, taking five wickets between them.

Sri Lanka is eliminated from the continental tournament as a result of India’s victory. The second finalist will be determined on Thursday by a virtual knockout match between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

After being dropped three times, twice in an over by Varun Chakravarthy, Bangladesh’s lone warrior, opener Saif Hassan, top-scored with 69. Axar Patel dropped him as he was playing on the ground in the 1940s.

After receiving a second lifeline from Shivam Dubey in the deep square leg, wicketkeeper Sanju Samson then grassed a catch on his own call in Chakravarthy’s subsequent over.

The two batsmen established a 42-run partnership for the second wicket, with Hassan scoring 21 and Parvez Hossain Emon scoring 21 as well.

The Indian spinners dominated the middle overs, and other from these two, none of the Bangladeshi batters appeared to be in contact. Together, Kuldeep 3-18 and Chakravarthy 2-29 eliminated half of the Bangladeshi team. After being costly in the previous game against Pakistan, Jasprit Bumrah returned and claimed 2-18 in his four overs.

Earlier, Abhishek Sharma ignited India’s batting attack against Bangladesh with a scorching performance, scoring 75 off just 37 balls to help the side reach 168/6 in 20 overs.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: Know About Match Schedule

In addition to giving India a strong start, the left-hander’s assault broke the record held by his guru Yuvraj Singh for the most T20I innings by an Indian player with five or more sixes.

Abhishek now has six of these knocks, second only to Suryakumar Yadav (9 and Rohit Sharma 13). In the 2025 edition, he smashed 17 sixes, the highest ever in a single event across all formats, setting a new Asia Cup record.

“I have, of course, performed my duties for the squad. As I mentioned earlier, I usually follow the crowd. Even if it’s the first ball of my innings, I’ll go for it if it’s in my arc. After winning Player of the Match (POTM), Abhishek stated, “I try to get the Power-play for my team.”

India came out fire in the powerplay after stand-in Bangladesh captain Jaker Ali won the toss and was put into bat. Before Abhishek changed tactics and punished anything loose, Shubman Gill started working early. When Jaker Ali missed a chance, he had a lucky break, but he made Bangladesh pay handsomely. The Indian openers took full grip of the game as they sped to 72/0 in just six overs.

However, Bangladesh recovered admirably following the Power-play. Just after the fielding limitations ended, Rishad Hossain gave the breakthrough, and Shubman Gill fell for 29 off 19.

Jaker Ali, the captain of Bangladesh, gave his bowlers appreciation. It’s really unexpected, but the boys deserve all the praise because they bowled incredibly well and adjusted well after ten overs. There are several benefits to this game. Tomorrow, we have another game. We must remember that we are capable of winning and making it to the final. Let’s see what I can discuss with management. Tomorrow, we’ll choose the mix and then give it our all,” he stated.

Shivam Dube was sent at number three by India as a surprise attempt to counter the spinners, but the gambit backfired as he left for just two. After that, Suryakumar Yadav joined Abhishek, and before a turning point, the two of them scored a quick 29 off 13 balls. India’s attack was stopped by Rishad Hossain’s outstanding fielding, which saw him run out Abhishek for a thrilling 75.

After that, the innings became unfocused. Tilak Varma barely managed five, while Suryakumar Yadav lost his timing and fell for five off eleven. India reached 165 thanks to Hardik Pandya’s steady 38, but Axar Patel found it difficult to gain momentum at the other end and ended up undefeated on 10 off 15.

Even though they got off to a fast start, India was only able to reach 168/6 from 20 overs, with just 70 runs coming in the last ten. Bangladesh’s most impressive bowler was Rishad Hossain, who claimed 2/27 in addition to his crucial run-out.

Brief scores:

India 168/6 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 75, Hardik Pandya 38; Rishad Hossain 2-27, Tanzim Hasan Sakib 1-29)
Bangladesh 127 all out in 19.3 overs (Saif Hassan 69, Parvez Hossain Emon 21; Kuldeep Yadav 3-18, Varun Chakravarthy 2-29)

The Reserve Bank of India is expected to step in to control excessive volatility after the Indian rupee dropped below the 88 mark versus the US dollar due to FII outflows and tariff concerns.

A soft dollar, a strong yuan, India’s manageable current account deficit, and the possibility of a US-India trade agreement all helped CareEdge Ratings retain its FY26-end USD/INR projection at 85–87.

“India’s forex reserves remain healthy at around $703 billion, near an all-time high, giving the RBI scope to intervene in the currency market and curb currency volatility if needed,” according to the rating agency.

Due to US tariffs, higher H-1B visa costs, and continuous withdrawals of foreign portfolio investors, analysts predicted that the rupee would continue to experience short-term pressure.

According to CareEdge ratings, the higher FPI selling this year may be the result of worries that the 50% tariffs will remain in effect and hinder India’s growth in FY26, bringing it down to about 6%.

Due to a rise in outbound investments by Indian companies, net FDI fell to about $4.9 billion in Q1 FY26, while gross FDI inflows reached about $25.2 billion.

Due to uncertainty surrounding US trade policy, budgetary concerns, and the prospect of further Federal Reserve cuts after a drop in September, the dollar index has lost about 10% of its value so far this year.

A source of competitive pressure on the Rupee that was present during the first trade war in 2018–19 has been eliminated as the yuan has increased by about 2.5% year to date.

“We do not anticipate an RBI rate cut at the October MPC meeting on the domestic front. However, FY26 GDP growth may drop to about 6% if hefty US tariffs continue. This might pave the way for future rate decreases, perhaps another 25 basis points, along with possible inflationary pressure from the rationalization of the GST, the paper stated.

It further stated that the interest rate disparity may increase in favor of the rupee, offering some support, since the US Fed is anticipated to lower rates more aggressively than the RBI.

India formally presented its proposal to the Commonwealth Sport Evaluation Committee here on Tuesday, marking another stage in their ambition to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

An Indian delegation of officials, including representatives from the state and federal governments as well as the Indian Olympic Association, made the request.

Harsh Sanghavi, the Gujarat government’s minister of sports, and PT Usha, the president of the Commonwealth Games Association (CGA) India, led the Indian squad.

The team that presented the proposal also included Ashwini Kumar, Principal Secretary, Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department, Government of Gujarat; Banchha Nidhi Pani, Commissioner, Amdavad Municipal Corporation; Raghuram Iyer, CEO, Commonwealth Games Association of India; Lt Gen Harpal Singh, Executive Board Member, CGA India; and Ajay Narang, EA to President, CGA. Hari Ranjan Rao is the secretary of sports in the Department of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS); Government of India.

The 2030 edition is significant because it commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Commonwealth Sport Movement.

According to a release from CGA India, India’s bid places Ahmedabad as the host city for this Centenary edition, providing a small Games footprint focused on venues of world caliber, reliable transportation, and first-rate lodging.

The concept strongly emphasizes affordability, inclusion, adaptability, and sustainability, all of which are in line with the Games Reset ideals. It pledges to incorporate parasport, safeguard human rights, advance gender parity, and establish a lasting legacy structure that guarantees advantages for athletes, communities, and the larger Commonwealth beyond the Games.

India’s candidacy is further strengthened by Ahmedabad’s demonstrated ability to host major events, like the Indian Premier League, the ICC Cricket World Cup, and the 2022 National Games.

In order to gain operational experience in the years leading up to 2030, the city will also host the Asian Aquatics 2025, Asian Weightlifting Championships 2026, World Police and Fire Games 2029, and a number of other multi- and single-sport events.

“Holding the Centenary Commonwealth Games will be a proud milestone, not just for Gujarat but for India,” remarked Harsh Sanghavi, Minister of Sports, Government of Gujarat.

To uplift our young people, hasten the transition to Viksit Bharat 2047, and fortify the Commonwealth Movement for the next century, we view these Games as a catalyst.

“India’s bid is not just about capability, but about values,” added PT Usha, head of the Commonwealth Games Association of India. Amdavad is prepared to take over from Glasgow 2026 and serve as a launching pad for the 2034 Games, making sure that the Centenary edition pays tribute to the past while influencing Commonwealth Sport‘s future.

The plan demonstrates India’s goal to provide Games that are small, sustainable, inclusive, and have an international impact, with the strong and concerted backing of the Government of India, the Government of Gujarat, and the Commonwealth Games Association of India.