Maharashtra deploys AI to detect power theft, flags 28,000 cases in 3 months

The Hindu Business Line - Sep 17, 2026

The utility deployed more than 190 flying squads after its AI and machine learning module identified unusual electricity consumption patterns.

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Coal ministry launches 16th round of commercial coal mine auctions
Sep 17, 2026
Coal ministry launches 16th round of commercial coal mine auctions

The latest auction round covers fully and partially explored mines across eight States, as the government seeks wider participation in coal mining.

Asian Games women’s cricket: Bangladesh advance without playing, Pakistan edge Thailand to reach semis
Sep 17, 2026
Asian Games women’s cricket: Bangladesh advance without playing, Pakistan edge Thailand to reach semis

Bangladesh advanced to the semifinals without playing their match. Pakistan secured their semifinal spot after a close match against Thailand. Their quarterfinal match was abandoned due to wet outfield conditions. Thailand posted ninety-one runs, and Pakistan chased it down with difficulty. Both teams now await their next opponents in the semifinals.

Psychology says people who love their afternoon nap may be responding to more than tiredness
Sep 17, 2026
Psychology says people who love their afternoon nap may be responding to more than tiredness

One person may be highly productive in the morning, take an afternoon nap and return to work feeling recharged. Another may avoid naps altogether because sleeping during the day makes them feel sluggish or disoriented. These different preferences reflect individual sleep patterns and responses rather than revealing a particular personality type.

‘Provocation’ could accelerate Taiwan reunification, retired PLA major general says
Sep 17, 2026
‘Provocation’ could accelerate Taiwan reunification, retired PLA major general says

Progress towards reunifying with Taiwan hinges on factors like the island’s level of provocation, retired PLA major general Luo Yan told the South China Morning Post, warning that Taiwan’s leader had challenged Beijing’s red lines. Speaking on the sidelines of the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing on Wednesday, Luo said the timeline for reunification with mainland China was shaped by “the development of our national strength, our defence needs, the global security environment, as well as the degree of...

34-year-old woman told Rs 9 crore sent to her from abroad was stuck at customs; she paid for its release, lost Rs 1.2 crore to fraud
Sep 17, 2026
34-year-old woman told Rs 9 crore sent to her from abroad was stuck at customs; she paid for its release, lost Rs 1.2 crore to fraud

A 34-year-old West Delhi woman allegedly lost around Rs 1.2 crore after fraudsters told her a diplomatic parcel containing £7 lakh was stuck at customs. The alleged scam continued for nearly a year, with fake bank, high commission and international officials demanding customs, tax and transaction payments while promising a parcel, cheque and bank transfer.

Up to 152X return! Rentomojo IPO delivers eye-popping gains to Nitish Mittersain, other early backers
Sep 17, 2026
Up to 152X return! Rentomojo IPO delivers eye-popping gains to Nitish Mittersain, other early backers

Rentomojo’s stock market debut has turned into a major windfall for early investors, with Nazara Technologies founder Nitish Mittersain set to clock a 152X return on his investment based on the IPO’s upper price band. Several other early backers, including Accel India, Madison India and Rajeev Chitrabhanu, are also poised to unlock multi-fold gains following the company’s listing on Thursday.

Govt should roll-back population control rules, incentives: EAC-PM Working Paper
Sep 17, 2026
Govt should roll-back population control rules, incentives: EAC-PM Working Paper

The paper, titled ‘the Ghost of Population Past’and co-authored by Sanjeev Sanyal, member of the Economic Advisory Council to the PM, Aakanksha Arora, director, EAC-PM and Virat Singh, consultant, EAC-PM, said there is no need for India to suppress the total fertility rate (TFR) any further else we risk falling into a low-fertility trap sooner, citing historical experience of other countries.

Govt should roll-back population control rules, incentives: EAC-PM Working Paper
Sep 17, 2026
Govt should roll-back population control rules, incentives: EAC-PM Working Paper

The paper, titled ‘the Ghost of Population Past’and co-authored by Sanjeev Sanyal, member of the Economic Advisory Council to the PM, Aakanksha Arora, director, EAC-PM and Virat Singh, consultant, EAC-PM, said there is no need for India to suppress the total fertility rate (TFR) any further else we risk falling into a low-fertility trap sooner, citing historical experience of other countries.

India secures 1.9 mt annual steel export quota from EU
Sep 17, 2026
India secures 1.9 mt annual steel export quota from EU

Indian steel exporters have begun shipping to the 27-nation bloc, with quota access already available following the EU regulation’s July 1 implementation

Road ministry lays out SOPs for removal of stray cattle from NHs and Expressways
Sep 17, 2026
Road ministry lays out SOPs for removal of stray cattle from NHs and Expressways

The standard operating procedures laid out by the ministry comes after the Supreme Court directive to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in 2025 to devise a structured mechanism for the safe removal and coordination of stray animals on NHs and Expressways. As per the SOPs, the national highway agencies will be responsible for removal of stray cattle and other animals from NHs, and their transportation to a shelter or pound or gaushala, designated by the state government for the purpose as applicable while the state, district or local administration will be responsible for identification, establishment and maintenance of shelter or pound.

Road ministry lays out SOPs for removal of stray cattle from NHs and Expressways
Sep 17, 2026
Road ministry lays out SOPs for removal of stray cattle from NHs and Expressways

The standard operating procedures laid out by the ministry comes after the Supreme Court directive to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in 2025 to devise a structured mechanism for the safe removal and coordination of stray animals on NHs and Expressways. As per the SOPs, the national highway agencies will be responsible for removal of stray cattle and other animals from NHs, and their transportation to a shelter or pound or gaushala, designated by the state government for the purpose as applicable while the state, district or local administration will be responsible for identification, establishment and maintenance of shelter or pound.

Gen Z asks one-day WFH, HR denies citing policy; what he did when company’s biggest client called at 10 PM left HR stunned
Sep 17, 2026
Gen Z asks one-day WFH, HR denies citing policy; what he did when company’s biggest client called at 10 PM left HR stunned

Gen Z employee was reportedly denied permission to work from home for one day but later questioned by HR after missing an urgent client call at 10 pm. He pointed out the contrast between the company’s refusal to offer remote-work flexibility and its expectation that he remain available beyond office hours, asking HR to clarify the after-hours requirements for his role.

TCS, Tata Chemicals, other group stocks zoom up to 14% on Tata Sons IPO nod, N Chandra’s term extension
Sep 17, 2026
TCS, Tata Chemicals, other group stocks zoom up to 14% on Tata Sons IPO nod, N Chandra’s term extension

Tata Sons has granted Chairman N Chandrasekaran a five-year extension, setting the stage for the long-awaited initial public offering of the group. This announcement spurred a surge in several Tata group stocks, particularly Tata Chemicals and Tata Investment Corporation, which experienced significant price increases. This development follows the Reserve Bank of India's decision to deny the company's request to remain privately held.

'Loneliness' in China is now a $1 trillion 'singles economy' in the world's second most populous country with 1.4 billion people
Sep 17, 2026
'Loneliness' in China is now a $1 trillion 'singles economy' in the world's second most populous country with 1.4 billion people

China’s growing number of people living alone is driving a $1 trillion singles economy, with businesses offering products and services tailored to solo consumers, from one-person meals and travel to pets, gaming and AI companions. The economy is likely to grow to $4 trillion by 2030. The trend is also reshaping spending habits, ageing concerns and China’s wider consumer market.

India-US tariff saga under Trump: A look at key turning points
Sep 17, 2026
India-US tariff saga under Trump: A look at key turning points

New U.S. tariffs and sanctions legislation create a new flashpoint for India-U.S. relations. Washington imposed tariffs on Indian goods, citing continued Russian oil purchases by New Delhi. The U.S. also proposed tariffs on countries reducing dependence on Russian energy sources. India warned that these actions could negatively impact bilateral trade and engagement. Both nations are working towards a limited trade deal and aim to double bilateral trade.

Modinomics at 76: The birthday cake, the candles and the numbers
Sep 17, 2026
Modinomics at 76: The birthday cake, the candles and the numbers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 76 as he completes nearly 12 years in office, a period that has reshaped India’s economic landscape through infrastructure expansion, digitalisation, financial inclusion and policy reforms. While India has emerged as a major global economy, private investment, manufacturing depth and quality employment remain key unfinished parts of the economic story.

Modinomics at 76: The birthday cake, the candles and the numbers
Sep 17, 2026
Modinomics at 76: The birthday cake, the candles and the numbers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 76 as he completes nearly 12 years in office, a period that has reshaped India’s economic landscape through infrastructure expansion, digitalisation, financial inclusion and policy reforms. While India has emerged as a major global economy, private investment, manufacturing depth and quality employment remain key unfinished parts of the economic story.

Brookfield to invest up to $600 million in ACME Cleantech Ventures
Sep 17, 2026
Brookfield to invest up to $600 million in ACME Cleantech Ventures

The investment will enable the development of green molecule projects as a scalable solution to help industries decarbonize their operations across Asia and Europe

From mountain fighters to Red Sea power: How the Houthis rose to control Bab el-Mandeb
Sep 17, 2026
From mountain fighters to Red Sea power: How the Houthis rose to control Bab el-Mandeb

Yemen's Houthi group now controls the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This group evolved into a formidable fighting force with Iranian support. They have disrupted vital shipping and struck critical oil facilities. Houthi missiles and drones have reached over 1,000 miles away. Their military tactics focus on infiltration and drone attacks.

84% of Indian small and medium enterprises plan to increase cybersecurity spending, but readiness gaps persist: Study
Sep 17, 2026
84% of Indian small and medium enterprises plan to increase cybersecurity spending, but readiness gaps persist: Study

A large majority of Indian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are planning to increase their cybersecurity investments over the next 12-24 months, but gaps in preparedness, monitoring and skilled expertise continue to remain a challenge, according to a study by Tata Tele Business Services (TTBS) and CyberMedia Research (CMR).

India secures 1.9 MT steel export quota to EU, expects total access to reach 2.8 MT
Sep 17, 2026
India secures 1.9 MT steel export quota to EU, expects total access to reach 2.8 MT

India secured a 1.9 million tonne annual steel export quota to the European Union. Exporters anticipate an additional 0.9 million tonne from residual quotas. This agreement protects the EU's steel industry against global overcapacity issues. Indian steel exports will face the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. The pact is expected to be implemented next year after signing.

RBI withdraws $5.2 billion via first net open market debt sale in 9 years
Sep 17, 2026
RBI withdraws $5.2 billion via first net open market debt sale in 9 years

The Reserve Bank of India has taken steps to absorb liquidity from the banking sector by selling bonds worth 500 billion rupees. This strategic move included the sale of securities with maturation dates slated between fiscal 2029 and fiscal 2032, marking the first net sale since November 2017. Consequently, an amount equivalent to nearly 0.2% of total deposits has been withdrawn from circulation.

Finance Ministry rejects US pressure claims over new UPI MDR, says RuPay has no special edge
Sep 17, 2026
Finance Ministry rejects US pressure claims over new UPI MDR, says RuPay has no special edge

India's Finance Ministry rejects claims of US influence on UPI payment charges. The new framework prioritizes RuPay credit cards for UPI transactions. This move aims to foster domestic competition and create a sustainable revenue model. Small merchants and certain transactions will remain exempt from the new charges. The government emphasizes protecting India's electronic payment ecosystem sovereignty.

Lebanon security talks in Paris focus on replacing UN mission
Sep 17, 2026
Lebanon security talks in Paris focus on replacing UN mission

Leaders from France, Lebanon, and Jordan met in Paris to discuss future support. They are planning a new force to replace the UN peacekeeping mission. This comes as the UNIFIL mandate concludes after nearly fifty years of operations. Lebanon seeks a European or other force to prevent a security vacuum.

How Fed rate hike can impact Bitcoin and other crypto investors
Sep 17, 2026
How Fed rate hike can impact Bitcoin and other crypto investors

The Fed’s rate hike could keep pressure on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies by raising the appeal of safer assets and limiting cheap funding. ETF outflows, tighter liquidity, inflation risks and potential further hikes may shape investor demand. For Indian investors, currency movements add another layer to Bitcoin’s dollar-price volatility.

Tata Sons approves five-year extension for N Chandrasekaran to prepare for IPO
Sep 17, 2026
Tata Sons approves five-year extension for N Chandrasekaran to prepare for IPO

Tata Sons' board approved N. Chandrasekaran's reappointment as executive chairman for five years. The company also initiated plans for a potential public listing following regulatory directives. This decision reverses Chandrasekaran's earlier announcement about not seeking another term. The listing follows the RBI's rejection of Tata Sons' request to exit shadow banking regulations. This move prepares Tata Sons for significant structural changes and a new operational phase.

Homebuyers remain bullish on real estate despite rising prices; premium homes, new launches gain traction: Anarock survey
Sep 17, 2026
Homebuyers remain bullish on real estate despite rising prices; premium homes, new launches gain traction: Anarock survey

Anarock’s H1 2026 survey shows homebuyers remain committed to residential property despite rising prices, with growing preference for larger homes, premium housing, new launches and established developers, while resale and rental potential are gaining importance.

SEBI F&O settlement tweak may cut reliance on closing auction, says Kotak
Sep 17, 2026
SEBI F&O settlement tweak may cut reliance on closing auction, says Kotak

Brokerage says blended 40-minute trade pool could help, but cash-market depth still needed to make CAS robust

AITUC calls for periodic revision of wage ceiling under EPFO
Sep 17, 2026
AITUC calls for periodic revision of wage ceiling under EPFO

A day after the government announced a revision in wage ceiling under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to Rs 25,000 per month from Rs 15,000, the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) AITUC demanding the wage ceiling to be fixed at Rs 30,000 per month to keep pace with increase in workers’ earnings.

Pakistan to seek bigger China swap line as $30 billion facility nears renewal
Sep 17, 2026
Pakistan to seek bigger China swap line as $30 billion facility nears renewal

Pakistan plans to request an increased swap line with China upon its 2027 expiration. The nation anticipates a U.S. response regarding a proposed $10 billion stabilization facility soon. Discussions are ongoing with U.S. entities for potential aircraft and refinery financing. Pakistan navigates elevated crude oil prices due to Middle East conflict concerns. The government currently sees its financial situation as manageable without additional IMF support.

Kiran Bedi moves Delhi HC in Satya Niketan building collapse case, Centre opposes
Sep 17, 2026
Kiran Bedi moves Delhi HC in Satya Niketan building collapse case, Centre opposes

Retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi approached the Delhi High Court seeking intervention. She wishes to be a party in the Satya Niketan building collapse case. This incident tragically resulted in seven fatalities and several injuries. Authorities opposed her application and requested time to file objections. The court granted them three days to respond to Bedi's plea.

Kiran Bedi moves Delhi HC in Satya Niketan building collapse case, Centre opposes
Sep 17, 2026
Kiran Bedi moves Delhi HC in Satya Niketan building collapse case, Centre opposes

Retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi approached the Delhi High Court seeking intervention. She wishes to be a party in the Satya Niketan building collapse case. This incident tragically resulted in seven fatalities and several injuries. Authorities opposed her application and requested time to file objections. The court granted them three days to respond to Bedi's plea.

GIFT City moves up 9 places to 37th globally, ranks among Asia-Pacific top 15
Sep 17, 2026
GIFT City moves up 9 places to 37th globally, ranks among Asia-Pacific top 15

GIFT City has surged nine positions to secure the 37th spot in the Global Financial Centres Index, marking a significant achievement for India as it joins the top 15 financial hubs in the Asia-Pacific region. With its FinTech ranking also improving by three places to 26th globally, this leap underscores the city's commitment to enhancing its financial services ecosystem and integrating technology.

Taipei donates coastguard vessel to Manila amid South China Sea tensions
Sep 17, 2026
Taipei donates coastguard vessel to Manila amid South China Sea tensions

Taiwan has quietly acknowledged donating a coastguard vessel to the Philippines, potentially adding to Manila’s maritime patrol capacity amid its long-running stand-off with Beijing in the South China Sea. Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration said on Wednesday that “this case” was being handled in line with previous transfers of vessels to the Marshall Islands, Palau and Tuvalu. Unlike those three Pacific states, which all maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taipei, the Philippines recognises...

In 2012, Elon Musk paid $17 million for a 16,251-square-foot Bel-Air mansion with rooftop solar; 8 years later, he sold it for $29 million
Sep 17, 2026
In 2012, Elon Musk paid $17 million for a 16,251-square-foot Bel-Air mansion with rooftop solar; 8 years later, he sold it for $29 million

In 2020, Elon Musk made headlines by selling a lavish Bel-Air mansion at a hefty profit. This sale unfolded against a backdrop where countless young adults confronted an increasingly unaffordable housing market. With home prices spiraling, Musk's lucrative real estate dealings highlight a stark divide between his financial gains and the struggles of a generation unable to secure proper housing.

Father spent Rs 2,000 on son’s Roblox promotion, forgot to delete card; 9-year-old created a Rs 1 crore bill problem from saved details
Sep 17, 2026
Father spent Rs 2,000 on son’s Roblox promotion, forgot to delete card; 9-year-old created a Rs 1 crore bill problem from saved details

A nine-year-old Minecraft and Roblox creator reportedly used his father’s saved company card details to promote videos on his YouTube channel, resulting in $118,000 in advertising charges over three weeks. His father, marketing professional David Sarkisyan, said he had initially spent about $20 on promotion but failed to remove the payment information, allowing his son to access it later.

Quote of the day by former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy: ‘There comes a time in life when you walk away from all the drama…’ – a reminder to choose peace over negativity
Sep 17, 2026
Quote of the day by former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy: ‘There comes a time in life when you walk away from all the drama…’ – a reminder to choose peace over negativity

Jacqueline Kennedy, known for her role as First Lady, shared her insights on navigating life's obstacles. She emphasized the importance of distancing oneself from negativity while cherishing supportive connections as key to true happiness. Her experiences, marked by significant personal trials and unwavering dedication to public service, enhanced her wisdom.

Tata Trusts split spills into Tata Sons boardroom as SDTT seeks to block nominee’s listing vote
Sep 17, 2026
Tata Trusts split spills into Tata Sons boardroom as SDTT seeks to block nominee’s listing vote

A split within Tata Trusts is affecting Tata Sons' boardroom decisions regarding its impending listing. Sir Dorabji Tata Trust seeks to prevent its nominee director from supporting the public offering. The Reserve Bank of India has mandated that upper-layer NBFCs must list on stock exchanges. Tata Sons board is expected to accept this directive, prompting swift regulatory compliance preparations.

Asian Games 2026: India aim to turn World Cup lessons into action, defend hockey title and seal LA Olympics berth
Sep 17, 2026
Asian Games 2026: India aim to turn World Cup lessons into action, defend hockey title and seal LA Olympics berth

India’s men’s hockey team will seek to put its disappointing World Cup campaign behind it as it begins its Asian Games title defence in Nagoya. Coach Craig Fulton said the team has identified areas for improvement and is focused on translating those lessons into action, with Sunday’s opener against Indonesia next.

Use rubbing alcohol for routine pruning; reserve a 1:9 bleach solution for tools exposed to fire blight
Sep 17, 2026
Use rubbing alcohol for routine pruning; reserve a 1:9 bleach solution for tools exposed to fire blight

Recent millennial gardening trends highlight a crucial oversight regarding tool sanitation, which can contribute to the spread of plant diseases. Many suggest using bleach for cleaning, though it risks damaging metal tools over time. A safer alternative is rubbing alcohol, ideal for daily upkeep. Still, bleach is vital for combating specific diseases like fire blight in fruit trees. Properly cleaning gardening tools promotes healthier plants and prolongs their longevity.

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