Mint Business News

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint, I'm your host Nelson John — This is your smart, daily briefing on what matters. From big moves in business to headlines shaping India and the world, we cut through the noise so you start your day informed and ahead. Trump & Xi Strike Deal India Wins 6-Month Chabahar Exemption JioBlackRock Enters India Crypto Legally Recognized as Property in India OpenAI Eyes $1 Trillion IPO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Air India's flying through turbulence — a ₹4,000-crore hit from Pakistan's airspace closure, route detours, and a crash have made it Tata's biggest loss-maker despite rising revenue. Meanwhile, Apple's hitting new highs in India. The iPhone 17 is smashing records, driving Apple past $10 billion in local revenue as Indians buy premium phones like never before. In telecom, Vodafone Idea finally sees hope after the Supreme Court allowed a reassessment of its ₹9,450-crore dues — a potential lifeline for India's most indebted carrier. SEBI's also shaking up the mutual fund industry, slashing brokerage costs and boosting transparency to protect retail investors. Beyond business, Japan's new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, is ramping up defence spending to 2% of GDP ahead of her meeting with Trump, signalling Tokyo's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. And back home, India's pushing to seal a free-trade deal with New Zealand, reviving talks stalled for nearly a decade. From aviation shocks to trade talks and tech triumphs — this week's business headlines had everything. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint, I'm your host Nelson John — This is your smart, daily briefing on what matters. From big moves in business to headlines shaping India and the world, we cut through the noise so you start your day informed and ahead.  It's Wednesday, October 29th. Let's get started! crushing global card networks with UPI. SEBI's slashing mutual fund fees by 83%. Your phone's about to show caller names. Blume Ventures is betting big on AI. And shrimp farmers say Trump's tariffs might be the wake-up call India needed. Five stories, one episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. California Tragedy Sparks National Debate: Dashcam footage captured the terrifying moment a semi-truck slammed into stopped traffic on California's I-10 — killing three, injuring four, and igniting a firestorm over how commercial licenses are issued. The driver, 21-year-old Jashanpreet Singh, an undocumented immigrant allegedly high on drugs, had somehow obtained a California CDL. Federal officials are calling it a “systemic failure,” while Washington froze $40 million in funding over weak language standards for truckers. Singh faces manslaughter and DUI charges. Trump's High-Stakes Asia Trip: President Trump heads to Asia for his first meeting with Xi Jinping since returning to office — and it's make-or-break. After months of tariff threats and China's rare-earth export curbs, Trump's opening line to Xi will be about fentanyl. Washington blames Beijing for chemical flows fueling America's drug crisis. The outcome could reset U.S.-China trade — or reignite tensions. India's Big Defense Push: India approved ₹79,000 crore in new defense buys — missiles, warships, and AI-powered air systems — part of a wider push for self-reliance after Operation Sindoor. The move boosts combat readiness across all forces while backing Indian defense tech. Delhi Bets on Artificial Rain: Delhi may finally make it rain — literally. Using IIT Kanpur's cloud seeding tech, the city plans its first artificial rainfall by October 29 to fight smog. Five trials are planned — science versus pollution. India-Canada Thaw Begins: After a year of diplomatic frost, India and Canada are talking again. Ottawa can now send back diplomats under a “reciprocal” staffing deal — a cautious reset after Trudeau's explosive 2023 accusation over Hardeep Nijjar's death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Modi Skips ASEAN Summit as Trump Heads to Malaysia Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the ASEAN Summit virtually, skipping what's being billed as the largest gathering of world leaders in ASEAN history. The decision, officially linked to Chhath Puja, comes as US President Donald Trump lands in Kuala Lumpur in person. Over 30 leaders, including China's Li Qiang and Brazil's Lula, are attending. With India-US ties strained by Trump's steep 50% tariffs on Indian goods, Modi's absence avoids an awkward meet without a trade breakthrough. Talks to reduce tariffs to 15–16% are ongoing, but India is treading carefully amid delicate diplomacy — balancing QUAD and BRICS ties at once. Kuala Lumpur, meanwhile, is under lockdown with 16,000 officers on duty. Siddaramaiah's Son Upsets Karnataka's Succession Equation Yathindra Siddaramaiah has thrown a curveball into Karnataka politics by backing minister Satish Jarkiholi as his father's successor — sidelining Deputy CM DK Shivakumar. With the Congress government hitting its halfway mark, talk of a “November revolution” is gaining traction. For Shivakumar, once seen as next in line, the message is clear: the race is no longer his alone. Indian Army Goes Tech-First India's Army is arming up for the future — signing a ₹2,770-crore deal with Bharat Forge and Adani's PLR Systems for 4.25 lakh modern carbines. New drone platoons and elite commando battalions are rolling out, while US-made Javelin missiles are being added. The shift marks a major leap from manpower-heavy to AI-driven combat readiness. Meta Cuts 600 Jobs in AI Reality Check Meta's AI dream just hit turbulence — 600 layoffs at its AI Superintelligence Labs. Despite a $14 billion spree to hire top AI talent, several big names have already quit. CEO Alexandr Wang says “leaner is faster,” but the move reveals internal tension between expensive new hires and a thinning support base. Trump Slaps Russia with Oil Sanctions, Eyes India Next President Trump has sanctioned Russia's oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil, warning Putin to end the Ukraine war. The move also turns the heat on India, with Trump insisting Modi promised to cut Russian oil imports — claims New Delhi hasn't confirmed. The message from Washington: stop buying Russian oil or face crushing tariffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Politics and diplomacy are both running hot today — from Gandhinagar to Washington, and beyond. In Gujarat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has hit the reset button — all 16 ministers resigned, giving him a clean slate to rebuild his cabinet. BJP insiders call it a strategic reset ahead of the 2027 polls. The new team, to be sworn in at Mahatma Mandir, could nearly double in size. Amit Shah and JP Nadda are flying in, underscoring how high the stakes are for the BJP's strongest state. Across the world, Donald Trump's back in the headlines — twice over. First, he claimed PM Modi promised to stop Russian oil imports. India flatly denied it, saying its energy policy serves its own people, not foreign politics. Then, Trump revealed plans to meet Vladimir Putin in Budapest to “end the Ukraine war,” right as Zelensky lands in Washington. It's diplomacy — Trump-style — loud, unpredictable, and headline-hungry. Back in South Asia, India has clearly chosen sides in the Afghanistan–Pakistan border fight — and it's not Islamabad. Delhi slammed Pakistan for “sponsoring terrorism,” backing Kabul after deadly cross-border strikes. The timing is sharp — just as a Taliban minister visits India. And finally, a milestone worth celebrating — India's housing mission just crossed one million approvals under PM Awas Yojana 2.0, with half reserved for women. A quiet, inclusive success amid all the noise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. India's global playbook just got a shake-up. First, President Trump dropped a bombshell from the Oval Office—Prime Minister Narendra Modi has agreed to stop buying Russian oil. After months of U.S. pressure and hefty 50% tariffs on Indian goods, Modi reportedly told Trump the shift will happen “within a short period.” If India follows through, it could hit Moscow's war chest hard—India's been one of Russia's biggest crude buyers since the Ukraine war began. Trump called Modi “a great man,” even as he hinted next on his list is China. Next, India pitched its homegrown Akash missile system to Brazil. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met Brazilian leaders in New Delhi, offering co-development deals and training exchanges. The move underlines India's growing defense confidence—transitioning from an importer to a serious exporter of indigenous tech. Meanwhile, Washington was stunned when Ashley Tellis, a top U.S.-India relations expert, was arrested for allegedly leaking classified defense documents and meeting Chinese officials. Tellis, a key figure behind the landmark U.S.-India nuclear deal, now faces up to 10 years in prison. Back home, Tamil Nadu debunked viral claims of a “Hindi ban.” The government called it “completely false,” reinforcing the DMK's long-standing pro-Tamil stance amid renewed language politics. And in Delhi, the Supreme Court gave a cautious nod to Diwali celebrations—allowing only green firecrackers from Oct 18–20 under strict monitoring. It's a delicate balance between tradition and air quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. First up, China's rare earth chokehold just tightened. Beijing has slapped export bans on companies linked to foreign militaries — a blow to the US, whose fighter jets and missiles rely on these critical minerals. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says allies like India and Europe are rallying to build alternative supply chains. Washington's betting on India's new Strategic Mineral Recovery plan to extract rare earths and lithium from heavy industries. The race to break China's monopoly has officially begun. In South Asia, India quietly revealed Operation Sindoor's real score — over 100 Pakistani soldiers killed during May's LoC clashes, far higher than known. Pakistan inadvertently confirmed it through its own awards list. For India, this marked a new era of “controlled yet decisive” military action that forced a quick ceasefire. Meanwhile, India and Mongolia deepened their bond with 10 new pacts covering uranium, oil refining, and defense. A $1.7 billion Indian-funded refinery will anchor Mongolia's energy security by 2028, while New Delhi eyes its vast uranium and copper reserves. Back home, Google's $15 billion bet on India made waves. Its new AI hub in Visakhapatnam will be the largest outside the US, built with Adani and Airtel. A subsea cable and mega data network aim to power India's digital future. And finally, India's exporters are on the brink of a windfall — duty-free access to Europe's $25 trillion market. With the EU free trade deal nearly done, apparel exports could more than double. India's trade game is shifting from America to Europe, one handshake at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. 1. Trump's “Peace Talk” Moment Gets Awkward At the Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt, Donald Trump had a classic off-script moment. While praising PM Modi, he turned around to ask Pakistan's Shehbaz Sharif if India and Pakistan will “live very nicely together.” Sharif smiled, and the cameras loved it. Trump has been claiming he stopped a war between India and Pakistan last May by threatening massive tariffs. India denies any US mediation, saying peace came through direct talks. But Sharif played along, even crediting Trump and backing his Nobel Peace Prize nomination. Modi skipped the summit but praised Trump's “sincere efforts.” What's clear is Trump's pushing his global peacemaker image—facts aside. #Trump #Modi #Sharif #IndiaPakistan #GazaPeaceSummit #USPolitics #Diplomacy 2. Tharoor Questions India's Low-Key Presence at Peace Summit Congress leader Shashi Tharoor took a jab at India's choice of sending a junior minister, Kirti Vardhan Singh, to a summit that saw 27 heads of state. He asked if it was “strategic restraint or a missed opportunity.” His point: when others send leaders, showing up with lower representation limits influence. The government says it was about maintaining strategic balance. Singh met Egypt's President and reaffirmed India's “commitment to peace.” #Tharoor #IndiaDiplomacy #GazaSummit #ForeignPolicy #MEAIndia 3. India–Canada Relations Hit Reset After two frosty years, India and Canada are thawing ties. Canadian FM Anita Anand met PM Modi and EAM Jaishankar, marking the first high-level visit since Trudeau's 2023 accusation linking India to a Khalistani activist's killing. Now, both sides unveiled a roadmap for trade, tech, clean energy, and AI. Canada's move to designate the Bishnoi gang as terrorists helped rebuild trust. Analysts call this a pragmatic reset—choosing progress over politics. #IndiaCanada #AnitaAnand #Modi #Jaishankar #TradeTalks #Diplomacy 4. ‘Fare Se Fursat': Fixed Airfares Take Off No more fare shocks. Alliance Air's new scheme offers fixed prices regardless of when you book. Valid till Dec 2025, it's part of India's plan to make flying affordable. Minister Rammohan Naidu says it fits the UDAN vision—connecting smaller towns and making travel predictable. #FareSeFursat #AllianceAir #UDAN #AffordableFlying #IndiaAviation 5. India's ₹6.4 Trillion Hydro Power Push India is going big on clean energy—tapping the Brahmaputra River to generate 76 GW by 2047. With China building dams upstream, this is as much about energy as it is about strategy. Arunachal leads with 52 GW potential. Two phases, massive spend, and a green target in sight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Donald Trump just made a dramatic claim aboard Air Force One: “The war in Gaza is over.” The US President is flying to the Middle East, first stopping in Israel to address parliament, then co-hosting a peace summit in Egypt with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. His peace deal's first step — Hamas frees all Israeli hostages from the October 7 attack, while Israel releases 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and allows aid into Gaza. Netanyahu called it a “victory,” though he warned the fight isn't done. World leaders, including Modi's envoy Kirti Vardhan Singh, will join the summit, signaling a potential end to one of the deadliest modern conflicts that's killed over 67,000 in Gaza. Meanwhile, diplomacy's getting a reboot elsewhere. Canada's Foreign Minister Anita Anand landed in New Delhi to “hit reset” on strained India-Canada ties. This marks the first official visit under new PM Mark Carney. She'll meet Jaishankar, Piyush Goyal, and key business leaders in Mumbai before heading to China and Singapore — part of Canada's Indo-Pacific push to rebuild strategic partnerships. In Kabul's shadow, Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi faced tough questions from women journalists after earlier barring them. His response — it was a “technical issue” — didn't land well. The optics? A regime still struggling to convince the world it respects women's rights. And in markets, gold and silver are on fire. Silver neared $51 an ounce, gold hit $4,060, and traders are literally flying silver bars across the Atlantic. A mix of short squeezes, Fed cuts, and US-China tensions has sent precious metals soaring up to 80% this year. Hashtags: #Trump #GazaCeasefire #MiddleEastPeace #IndiaCanada #AnitaAnand #Modi #Taliban #Afghanistan #GoldPrices #SilverRally #USChinaTensions #GlobalMarkets #PeaceSummit #Netanyahu #BreakingNews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. India Fortifies Its Partnerships India and Australia signed three major defense agreements in Canberra on Thursday, covering intelligence sharing, submarine rescue cooperation, and joint military staff talks. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met Australian Deputy PM Richard Marles as part of the inaugural Defense Ministers' Dialogue, marking five years of their comprehensive strategic partnership. Singh was blunt about Pakistan: "Terror and talks cannot go together." But the real focus is the Indo-Pacific, where both nations, alongside the US and Japan through the Quad, are countering China's expanding military footprint. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Mumbai with a £350 million ($468 million) missile deal for India. The lightweight multirole systems, made in Belfast, will boost Indian Army air defenses. Britain also signed a £250 million deal for electric propulsion systems for Indian warships. Starmer announced Lancaster and Surrey universities received approval to open Indian campuses. With nine UK universities now operating in India, Britain has the biggest higher education footprint in the country. India needs 70 million university places by 2035 – it currently has 40 million students. Modi's Middle East Diplomacy Prime Minister Modi called Benjamin Netanyahu to congratulate him on the Gaza ceasefire deal. Netanyahu paused his security cabinet meeting to take the call. Modi welcomed the hostage release and humanitarian assistance, reaffirming that "terrorism in any form is unacceptable." Putin's Apology Ten months after Russian air defense mistakenly downed an Azerbaijani passenger plane killing 38 people, Vladimir Putin pledged compensation. Meeting Ilham Aliyev in Tajikistan, Putin explicitly acknowledged Russia's role for the first time, saying missiles detonated near the December 2024 flight after Ukrainian drones entered Russian airspace. SEO Hashtags: #GlobalNews #IndiaAustralia #UKIndia #DefenseDeals #ModiNetanyahu #GazaPeace #PutinApology #AzerbaijanPlaneCrash #QuadSecurity #IndoPacific #BritishUniversities #MissileDefense #InternationalRelations #GeopoliticalNews #WorldAffairs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. 1. Trump's Gaza Gamble: A Ceasefire on Paper After over a year of war, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire — brokered by Donald Trump. Hostages will be freed, troops pulled back, and prisoners exchanged. Netanyahu called it “a great day for Israel,” while Hamas urged guarantees of compliance. Talks in Egypt, with Qatar and Turkey mediating, sealed the deal. Trump may visit Israel soon, marking his first trip since moving the US embassy to Jerusalem. For now, the guns are quiet — but whether this peace holds is anyone's guess. 2. Taliban in Delhi: India's Risky Diplomatic Bet In a first since 2021, Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is visiting India. Meetings with S Jaishankar and Ajit Doval are on the cards, along with a symbolic stop at Darul Uloom Deoband and the Taj Mahal. India hasn't recognized the Taliban regime but is opening channels anyway — focused on security, counter-terror, and trade. The visit needed a UN waiver, which New Delhi quietly secured. 3. America's New Face in Delhi The US finally has a new ambassador to India — Sergio Gor, confirmed alongside Paul Kapur for the South Asia desk. Both are Trump allies. But the relationship they inherit is tricky: tariffs, Russian energy tensions, and trade friction remain sore points. Still, for New Delhi, having a point of contact again brings relief — and clarity. 4. Mumbai's Sky Leap: The New Digital Airport PM Modi just opened Phase 1 of the ₹19,650-crore Navi Mumbai International Airport — India's first fully digital airport. AI-driven terminals, online baggage drop, and even a water taxi link make it a tech marvel. Set to handle 90 million passengers, it's Mumbai's fix for chronic air congestion. 5. Mahindra's Big Split: SUVs vs Tractors Mahindra & Mahindra may demerge its SUV, truck, and tractor divisions — and the numbers make the case. Profits have jumped sevenfold since FY21, with SUVs now driving 57% of revenue. From tractors to trailblazing SUVs, M&M's evolution could unlock major investor value. #TrumpCeasefire #GazaPeaceDeal #TalibanIndiaVisit #USIndiaRelations #NaviMumbaiAirport #MahindraSplit #IndiaNews #GlobalPolitics #TopOfTheMorning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. 1. Starmer's India Pitch: Eastward Bound British PM Keir Starmer touched down in Mumbai with a 125-company strong business entourage, marking his first India visit. After clinching a landmark trade deal in July, he's here to turn paperwork into partnership. “It's a launchpad for growth,” he said, ahead of talks with PM Modi. With Trump's tariffs reshaping global trade, Britain's clearly betting on India — the world's fastest-growing major economy — to anchor its post-Brexit growth story. 2. Bihar's Battle Royale: Modi vs Rahul All eyes on Bihar — India's political pressure cooker. Modi's seventh visit this year signals a “development blitz,” launching projects worth thousands of crores. Rahul Gandhi's counter? Social justice, unemployment, and inflation. It's a classic clash — Modi's record versus Rahul's promise. And Bihar's voters are right in the middle of it. 3. Canada vs Trump: Trade Chess in Washington Canadian PM Mark Carney's first White House meet with Trump had both tension and intent. Trump wants tougher auto trade terms, while Carney's dangling $1 trillion in potential investment. Tariffs are up, tempers are high — but both sides know a new deal could redefine North America's economic playbook. 4. BP Bets Big on India's Energy Future BP's pouring $4 billion into India's oil and gas sector, teaming up with Reliance and ONGC to boost local production. With India importing 85% of its energy, the move aims at fuel independence. “We need to do as much as we can,” says BP India chief Kartikeya Dube. 5. India's ₹24,634-Crore Rail Push Four mega railway projects just got the green light — adding 894 km of track across four states by 2031. Expect smoother freight flow, cleaner energy use, and better rural connectivity for 8.5 million people. A logistical and environmental win rolled into one. #KeirStarmer #IndiaUKTrade #ModiVsRahul #CanadaUSDeal #BPIndia #IndianRailways #GlobalTrade #EnergySecurity #BiharElections #MintTopOfTheMorning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Trump, Tariffs & Turnarounds Here's the twist: Trump and Brazil's Lula just had a surprisingly warm 30-minute call — and Bolsonaro, the man who caused their diplomatic fallout, wasn't even mentioned. Earlier this year, Trump hit Brazil with 50% tariffs after its courts refused to drop coup charges against Bolsonaro. But this week, Lula flipped the script — pitching trade relief and reminding Trump that Brazil actually runs a deficit with the US. The call ended with promises of a face-to-face meet. Lula called it “cordial.” Translation? Trump's letting go of ideology for a deal, and Lula's charm offensive just paid off. #TrumpLulaCall #BrazilTrade #Bolsonaro #Geopolitics #USBrazilRelations Courtroom Chaos in Delhi A 71-year-old lawyer hurled his shoe at Chief Justice BR Gavai during a live hearing — shouting, “India won't tolerate insult to Sanatan Dharma.” His outburst followed Gavai's viral remark telling a petitioner to “ask the deity himself” after rejecting a temple plea. Gavai stayed calm; the lawyer's been suspended. But the message is clear — India's courtrooms are now ground zero for religious rage. #SupremeCourt #SanatanDharma #Judiciary #IndiaNews #BRGavai Trump's “Tariff for Peace” Claim Trump now says he single-handedly stopped war between India and Pakistan — using tariffs. After India's Operation Sindoor in May, he claims he told both sides: no ceasefire, no trade. India calls it nonsense. But Trump's turning his economic policy into a peace narrative — one few outside MAGA circles buy. #Trump #IndiaPakistan #TariffWar #ForeignPolicy #PeaceClaim Jaishankar's Warning Shot India's foreign minister just called out the “weaponization of everything.” S Jaishankar said New Delhi won't bow to tariff pressure — especially on farm and dairy imports — and must be the crisis anchor in South Asia. His message: India plays by its own rules, even in a volatile world order. #Jaishankar #IndiaForeignPolicy #Trade #Tariffs #SouthAsia France's Political Freefall France just lost its third prime minister in under a year. Sébastien Lecornu quit after just 26 days — his cabinet picks enraged parliament, and Macron's government is paralyzed. Debt's ballooning, politics are fractured, and Marine Le Pen's shadow looms large. France's Fifth Republic is wobbling. #FranceCrisis #Macron #Lecornu #LePen #EuropePolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. The week began with tragedy in the hills. Relentless rain turned Darjeeling and Kalimpong into death zones — 18 dead, thousands stranded, homes buried in landslides between 2 and 3 a.m. Roads caved in, bridges collapsed, and tourists trapped as five NDRF teams dug through debris. With NH-10 cut off and two steel bridges washed away, rescue ops stretched thin. Politics followed quickly — BJP hit out at Mamata Banerjee for staying at Kolkata's Puja carnival; TMC shot back saying she was monitoring round the clock. Meanwhile, Modi and Shah expressed condolences as the toll rose across Sikkim, Bhutan, and Nepal. Then came fire on the field — India crushed Pakistan by 88 runs at the Women's World Cup in Colombo. No handshakes. No smiles. Just fierce stares and a coin toss controversy that added fuel to the rivalry. Home Minister Amit Shah called it a “perfect strike,” while fans called it payback season. On the global front, India drew new red lines with Washington. S Jaishankar said Delhi won't open agriculture or dairy to US markets, calling current tariffs “unfair.” The message: India will trade, but on its own terms. And in defense, Delhi's doubling down on Russia — set to buy five more S-400 systems, with local manufacturing built in. It's proof India's sticking with what's battle-tested. Finally, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal heads to Doha to push a new trade pact with Qatar — a move that could reset Gulf ties and give India a stronger foothold beyond oil. #DarjeelingFloods #IndiaPakistanRivalry #WomensWorldCup #S400 #IndiaUSRelations #PiyushGoyal #IndiaQatar #Jaishankar #MamataBanerjee #BreakingIndia #GlobalTrade #IndiaNews #TopOfTheMorning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Putin's Nuclear Warning At the Valdai forum, Putin warned Russia will resume nuclear tests if “any other nuclear power” does first. He mocked NATO as the real “paper tiger,” threatened escalation if the US sends Tomahawks to Ukraine, and tied confidence to Russia's new Oreshnik missile complex. With New START treaty set to expire in February, Putin says extension is possible — but only if Washington wants it. Tensions rose further after France detained a Russian-linked tanker, which Putin blasted as “piracy.” The standoff with the West is now being likened to the Cuban Missile Crisis. India–China Flights Return After five years, direct flights resume this month. IndiGo will start Kolkata–Guangzhou on Oct 26, with Delhi routes to follow. China Eastern likely next. The move signals thawing ties after Ladakh clashes froze relations and grounded flights. For Beijing, restoring air links was top priority to boost trade with India. France's Streets Erupt Again 195,000 protesters marched in 200+ cities, shutting the Eiffel Tower and disrupting trains, schools, and hospitals. Unions demand more public spending and reversal of pension reforms. New PM Lecornu faces pressure even before unveiling the budget. Protests echo last month's massive half-million march — France's unrest shows no sign of cooling. Customs Clash in Chennai Wintrack Inc quit India, alleging bribery at Chennai Customs. The department hit back with evidence of undeclared goods, misclassified items, and missing permits, calling the allegations a deflection. A central probe is underway, with the Finance Ministry to decide who's guilty. Toxic Syrup Scare in Pune After six child deaths from contaminated cough syrup in MP and cases in Rajasthan, Pune's FDA launched emergency inspections across 10,000+ retailers and 8,000 distributors. No central order triggered it — local regulators acted fast, warning chemists not to stock unverified products. #Putin #Russia #Nuclear #IndiaChina #Aviation #FranceProtests #Macron #ChennaiCustoms #Trade #CoughSyrup #HealthIndia #GlobalNews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Trump's Gaza Peace Gambit Trump dropped a 20-point peace plan at the White House with Netanyahu by his side. Israel accepted instantly, Hamas is silent. The plan: all Oct 7 hostages freed in 72 hrs, Israel releases 2,000+ prisoners, grim body-for-body swaps, Israeli withdrawal only after Hamas fully disarms. Gaza gets a temporary technocratic govt — no Hamas. Trump wants a global “Board of Peace” led by figures like Tony Blair. Bold but controversial: Israel keeps a security buffer inside Gaza. For Hamas, it's not a truce, it's political extinction. India–Bhutan Rail Links ₹4,033 crore for two new lines linking Bhutan's Gelephu & Samtse with India's vast network. 90 km track, 125 bridges, completion in four years. Bhutan finally gets rail access to ports, Nepal, Bangladesh. Gelephu is key — it's becoming an autonomous economic hub. India backs it fully, countering China's growing Himalayan footprint. Gandhi Statue Vandalized in London Days before his 155th birth anniversary, vandals defaced Gandhi's memorial in Tavistock Square, a peace garden. India's High Commission condemned the act as an attack on Gandhi's legacy. The timing shows this wasn't random — it was deliberate, and deeply symbolic. Arattai: India's WhatsApp Challenger Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal joined Zoho's homegrown messaging app Arattai, calling it “Swadeshi.” With encryption and data staying in India, it signals a push for digital self-reliance. The question: can it dent WhatsApp's billion-user lead? Will RBI Follow Fed's Cut? The US Fed cut rates by 25 bps. India's RBI meets Oct 1. Experts are split: domestic inflation keeps RBI cautious, but Fed cuts may open a small window. For investors: if RBI cuts, banks, autos, and real estate could rally. #Trump #Gaza #MiddleEastPeace #IndiaBhutan #Geopolitics #Gandhi #London #Arattai #DigitalIndia #RBI #FederalReserve #Markets #GlobalFinance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Ladakh Erupts in Violence What began as a hunger strike turned into Ladakh's deadliest unrest in years. Four dead, 60+ injured, and Leh under lockdown after protesters demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule protections clashed with security forces, torching buildings and vehicles. Activist Sonam Wangchuk is accused by the Home Ministry of provoking “Arab Spring-style” protests, though he denies it. Talks with Delhi are set for October 6. Private Sector Enters Stealth Race L&T and BEL are teaming up to bid for India's stealth fighter project, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. With ₹15,000 crore sanctioned for prototypes, the IAF plans to induct 120 jets by 2035. This marks a major shift from HAL's monopoly as private defense firms compete in India's biggest aerospace contract. India-Australia Organic Pact A new deal recognizes each other's organic certifications, unlocking smoother trade. India exports just $9M worth of organics to Australia today, but the pact could boost prices for farmers and open markets in cereals, spices, tea, and wine. Australia leads with 53M hectares of organic farmland; India has the most organic producers worldwide. Trump's “Triple Sabotage” at UN Donald Trump cried foul after his UN speech was marred by an escalator stop, a dead teleprompter, and sound glitches. He called it “sabotage,” but UN officials said the mishaps were linked to his own team and budget cuts triggered by delayed US payments. Big Boost for Medical Seats The cabinet cleared ₹15,034 crore to add 5,023 MBBS and 5,000 PG seats. India has doubled capacity since 2014, yet 20 lakh aspirants still chase limited spots. The rapid expansion faces hurdles: faculty shortages and unaffordable private fees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Trump Turns on India at UN Donald Trump used the UNGA stage to take two direct swipes at India. First, he boasted yet again about “stopping a war” between India and Pakistan — angling for that Nobel Peace Prize. India clarified it halted Operation Sindoor at Pakistan's request, not Washington's. Then came the sharper blow: accusing India and China of “funding Putin's war” by buying Russian oil. Tariffs on Indian imports are already at 50%, with threats of more to come. Modi has stayed silent, while Shashi Tharoor called Trump's moves “mercurial” — unpredictable today, possibly favorable tomorrow. Kerala Battles Brain-Eating Amoeba Kerala confirmed 80 cases and 21 deaths from amoebic meningoencephalitis, caused by Naegleria fowleri. It spreads when contaminated freshwater enters the nose. Authorities stress seawater, tap water, and chlorinated pools are safe. The state's focus is aggressive testing and chlorination, which is helping save lives. India's First Defence Plant in Africa Rajnath Singh inaugurated Tata's new defence facility in Morocco — India's first in Africa. The plant will produce WhAP 8x8 armoured vehicles for Morocco's Royal Army. More than a “Make in India” story, this is about India exporting defence technology and creating a global footprint. H-1B Hurdles Get Higher The US Homeland Security Dept plans to revamp the H-1B system, favoring higher-paid applicants over random selection. Coupled with Trump's $100,000 visa fee, this creates steep barriers for Indian engineers, especially entry-level talent. Swiggy Cashes Out of Rapido Swiggy sold its entire Rapido stake for ₹2,400 crore to Prosus and WestBridge, booking nearly 2.5x returns. Ironically, Rapido is now launching its own food delivery arm to rival Swiggy and Zomato. The windfall helps Swiggy offset heavy losses despite surging revenues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. India–US: From Punches to Handshakes Tariffs up, visas priced at $100K, and sharp words over Russian oil — yet, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and India's S Jaishankar met in New York calling each other “critical partners.” It's not routine diplomacy, it's damage control. Behind the public sparring, Modi and Trump quietly announced a reset: trade talks are back, with Piyush Goyal already in the US pushing a bilateral deal. Sometimes the loudest fights happen right before breakthroughs. #IndiaUS #TradeTalks #Diplomacy Space: The New Battlefield An Indian satellite found itself shadowed just 1 km away by a foreign craft, sparking fears of space warfare. India is now building “bodyguard satellites” to shield its 100+ fleet from threats, while China boasts over 930. With $3B earmarked for surveillance satellites, New Delhi is gearing up for an orbital arms race. #SpaceSecurity #ISRO #China UK vs US: Talent Tug of War Trump's $100K H-1B visa bomb could drive Indian talent out of Silicon Valley. Britain smells opportunity — Keir Starmer plans zero visa fees for scientists and engineers. With 70% of H-1B visas historically going to Indians, London could turn into the new magnet for global talent. #GlobalTalent #UKImmigration #H1B Macron's Bold Move France formally recognized Palestinian statehood at the UN, joining a growing chorus for a two-state solution. Nearly 65,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza since 2022, yet Israel and the US reject recognition. Macron insists it's not about politics anymore, it's about lives. #Palestine #France #Peace Trump's Visa Twist: Doctors Spared After the $100K visa fee shocked tech workers, the White House clarified exemptions for physicians and medical residents. With 76 million Americans in doctor shortage areas, Trump's move risked crippling healthcare — especially in rural strongholds. Exemptions are a lifeline for hospitals. #H1B #Healthcare #Trump Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Alliances Redrawn: Pakistan & Saudi's Security Pact Riyadh and Islamabad just inked a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, pledging to treat an attack on one as an attack on both. Pakistan formalizes decades of unofficial military support, gaining Saudi investment, while Saudi taps Pakistan's nuclear and military heft. India, already deepening defense ties with Riyadh, is left rethinking strategy. Chabahar Shock: India's $250M Gamble at Risk The US revoked sanctions relief on Iran's Chabahar Port, effective Sept 29. For India, Chabahar is a crucial link to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. Now New Delhi faces a brutal choice: risk US sanctions or abandon years of investment and regional influence. Lavrov Fires Back: Ancient Civilizations Won't Bow Russia's Sergey Lavrov mocked Washington's tariff threats, defending India and China as “ancient civilizations” that won't bend. With Trump slapping 50% tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, Lavrov warned America's pressure play may be backfiring. Adani Cleared: Loopholes and Lessons SEBI just gave Gautam Adani a clean slate after Hindenburg's allegations. Turns out Adani did route funds via intermediaries, but it wasn't illegal then. Rules only tightened in 2021. The case exposes how corporate giants exploit regulatory gaps—and why timing is everything. Britain's £150bn Mirage London hailed massive US investment pledges—Microsoft (£22bn), Google (£5bn), Blackstone (£90bn). But job losses outpace promises, and giants like Merck and AstraZeneca are fleeing. Critics say the UK risks becoming a launchpad for US firms, not a growth hub itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Oracle's TikTok Lifeline Oracle, Andreessen Horowitz plot TikTok takeover to dodge US ban. ByteDance drops to

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories.  India's Supreme Court delivered a crushing victory for the Ambani family, declaring their massive Vantara zoo legally untouchable and slamming the door on future complaints. The 3,500-acre facility housing 2,000 species survived allegations of smuggling and money laundering after a thorough investigation. Meanwhile, India-US trade talks resumed with Washington's chief negotiator flying to New Delhi. After the US slapped brutal 50% tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases, both sides are pushing for a deal by fall 2025. The stakes are high - India's been cozying up to China while these talks stalled. Domestically, railways announced that starting October 1, only Aadhaar-verified users can book tickets during the crucial first 15 minutes online. Out of 130 million IRCTC users, only 12 million are verified - meaning 118 million need to authenticate or wait. Nature struck Uttarakhand as cloudbursts swallowed the ancient Tapkeshwar temple in Dehradun. No lives lost, but it's part of escalating Himalayan disasters that killed 200+ in 2021's Chamoli catastrophe. Globally, Gaza burns under relentless bombing just after US Secretary Rubio's Jerusalem visit backing Israel's assault. At least 16 Palestinians died as America signals no immediate ceasefire push. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. No Extension on ITR Filing The Income Tax Department has shut down viral fake news about another deadline extension. September 15 stays the final date to file returns, despite a bogus notice circulating online. Over 6 crore ITRs have already been filed, and officials are urging last-minute filers to act now. #IncomeTax #ITRFiling #FakeNewsAlert #TaxDeadline GST Cuts Spark FMCG Rush India's consumer goods majors are liquidating stock before GST rates drop on September 22. From shampoo to butter, taxes will fall sharply, pushing HUL, P&G, and L'Oréal to offer steep discounts. The idea: clear old inventory before new lower prices kick in. Consumers could see big festival season savings. #GSTCuts #FMCG #Discounts #FestivalShopping Dallas Murder Fuels Immigration Clash An Indian-origin motel manager was brutally beheaded in Dallas by a Cuban migrant with a long criminal record. The suspect had avoided deportation after Cuba refused to take him back. The killing has ignited a political firestorm, with Trump blaming the Biden administration's immigration policies. #DallasMurder #ImmigrationCrisis #Trump #USPolitics Far-Right Surge in London Over 100,000 people joined Tommy Robinson's “Unite the Kingdom” march, one of the largest far-right rallies in UK history. The protest focused on immigration, with clashes breaking out between demonstrators and counter-protesters. Police made multiple arrests as tensions ran high. #LondonProtest #FarRight #ImmigrationDebate #UKPolitics Tata Bets Big with Global JVs Tata International is investing $100 million in two joint ventures — one with Mitsubishi to expand in Africa, and another with Mercuria for commodities trading. The goal is clear: move beyond shoes and auto parts and emerge as a global trading powerhouse. #TataInternational #GlobalTrade #Mitsubishi #Mercuria Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Infosys is launching its largest-ever buyback, repurchasing shares worth ₹18,000 crore at a 19% premium. The move matches TCS's record buyback but covers a bigger slice of equity, signalling confidence after a 20% stock slump this year. Analysts say it's a clear sign the stock is undervalued, even as the IT sector battles slowing growth and cautious investors. PM Mark Carney announced Canada will cap temporary residents, including foreign students, at under 5% of the population by 2027. Already, Indian students are reeling — four out of five faced rejections this quarter, with study permits dropping 66% year-on-year. The cuts reflect anti-immigrant sentiment and pressure on housing and jobs, reshaping Canada's image as a top study hub. Donald Trump's pick for US ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, told senators a trade deal with New Delhi could be sealed “within weeks.” He credited Trump's personal friendship with PM Modi for keeping talks alive despite earlier tensions over Russian oil. The plan: deepen defence ties, push big-ticket arms sales, and double trade to $500 billion by 2030. In the West Bank, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu bluntly declared: “There will never be a Palestinian state.” He signed off on the $1 billion E1 settlement project, a move critics say could kill the two-state solution. The announcement, coming days after Israel's strike attempt on Hamas leaders in Qatar, risks isolating Israel further as some Western nations weigh recognising Palestine at the UN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Wangchuk's Hunger Protest in Ladakh Sonam Wangchuk has begun a 35-day fast, demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule protection for Ladakh. With Gandhi Jayanti as a symbolic milestone, Wangchuk says Delhi's silence has pushed locals to the edge. Patience is running thin since Article 370's revocation left the region without autonomy. UPI Levels Up Digital payments just got a boost. Starting Sept 15, UPI limits rise to ₹10 lakh for insurance, travel, and capital markets, and ₹6 lakh for credit card and jewellery purchases. With over 10 billion monthly transactions, UPI is now more than small payments — it's India's financial backbone. Modi Rebukes Israel Over Qatar Strike Israel's hit on Hamas leaders inside Doha drew an unusually sharp response from PM Modi, condemning the “violation of Qatar's sovereignty.” With 8.3 lakh Indians in Qatar and $14 billion trade ties, India's balancing act between Israel and Qatar just got trickier as ceasefire efforts wobble. Defense Deals Survive Tariff Storm Despite Trump's tariff offensive, the US and India are moving ahead with talks for six more P-8I surveillance aircraft worth $4B. With China looming in the Indian Ocean, both sides know defense ties outweigh political spats. India's Diplomatic Punch at UN When Switzerland criticized India on minority rights, diplomat Kshitij Tyagi hit back, citing Swiss racism and xenophobia. With Switzerland chairing the UNHRC, India's rebuttal was sharp and unapologetic — a sign of growing confidence to push back on global criticism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Power Shifts in Motion The world feels off its axis. India is choosing a new vice president while fending off Trump's trade wars. Nepal's Gen Z has taken to the streets in bloody clashes against corruption. The US just slammed shut a visa loophole Indians depended on. And India and Israel are sealing billion-dollar investment deals even as rockets fly. Different stories, same thread: power — who has it, who wants it, and how far they'll go to keep it. US Visa Roadblock America now requires all Indians to apply at home, ending the long-used “fast track” via other countries. Wait times stretch up to 9 months, and with interview waivers gone, even kids and seniors must queue. Business trips and family emergencies just got harder. India's VP Race After Jagdeep Dhankhar's sudden health resignation, two southern heavyweights battle for the VP chair. BJP's CP Radhakrishnan has the numbers, but the opposition's Sudershan Reddy keeps the fight alive. A secret ballot could still spring surprises. Trade Wars Heat Up At a BRICS summit, India's S. Jaishankar slammed Trump's punitive tariffs, calling out “weaponized trade.” With China and Russia backing him, BRICS is drawing battle lines that could reshape global commerce. Nepal's Youth Revolution Nineteen killed, over 100 injured as Nepal's Gen Z confronted corruption in Kathmandu. Sparked by TikTok clips of politicians' kids flaunting wealth, the protests mirror Sri Lanka and Bangladesh's youth-led uprisings. A government crackdown may have only fueled the fire. India–Israel Pact New Delhi and Jerusalem signed an ironclad investment treaty shielding investors and opening trade corridors. With $3.76B trade already flowing, the deal expands into fintech, defense, and cyber. Both nations gain: Israel's tech meets India's market scale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Tariffs, Oil & Trump's India Puzzle Trump doubled tariffs on India to 50% over Russian oil purchases, hoping Delhi would bend. It hasn't. Ex-diplomat KP Fabian says Trump's “Triple T – Trumped-up Trump Tariffs” failed. Modi and Trump still call each other “friends,” but beneath the smiles, India is sticking to its long game: dealing with the US, Russia, and China without picking sides. Tharoor Fires Back Congress MP Shashi Tharoor dismissed US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's claim that India will “say sorry” to Trump. “We have nothing to apologize for,” he said, pointing out that past US governments encouraged India to buy Russian oil. With Trump's team threatening harsher sanctions, Tharoor warned against his “mercurial temperament,” stressing India's right to protect its energy security. Physics Wallah's $437M Leap As Byju's and Unacademy crash, Physics Wallah is preparing a $437 million IPO. Revenue jumped 49% to $330 million, losses shrank, and the founders are betting on affordable, quality learning and physical coaching centers. Proof that content beats hype. Tihar's Image Makeover To overcome UK courts blocking extraditions, India let British officials inspect Tihar Jail. They were “largely impressed,” and Delhi even offered a special enclave for fugitives. With 178 extradition cases pending, including Mallya and Nirav Modi, India is desperate to fix its global image. India's $1.8M Trump Whisperer India hired Trump's ex-strategist Jason Miller for $1.8M a year to lobby in Washington. Miller recently posed with Trump at the White House, signaling Delhi now has a direct line into Trumpworld—an investment already paying off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Food apps hike festive fees Swiggy and Zomato (now Eternal) have raised platform fees—₹15 and ₹12 in metros—while adding surge, rain, and distance charges. With GST now at 18% on deliveries, your festive orders will cost more. But convenience rules, and platforms know demand spikes 30–50% during this season. Even a ₹2–3 hike per order translates into crores as they process 5 million orders daily. Afghan quake toll rises Twin earthquakes have killed over 2,200 and injured 3,600 in eastern Afghanistan, flattening villages and leaving 6,700 homes in ruins. Survivors face harsh weather and dwindling aid as the UN warns food and medicine could run out in weeks. Entire communities are shattered, with almost 98% of homes destroyed in some districts. EU looks to India European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen says India has a key role in ending the Ukraine war, after talks with PM Modi. Both sides also push to conclude a long-delayed free trade pact this year, with the next round of talks set for September 8 in New Delhi. Gold slips, stocks jump Gold cooled as investors shifted to equities after GST reforms. MCX gold futures fell to ₹1,06,704, silver to ₹1,24,850, even as Sensex and Nifty rallied nearly 1%. Analysts advise booking profits and waiting for dips before fresh gold buys. SoftBank trims Ola stake SoftBank cut its Ola Electric holding to 15.68%, selling 95 million shares. Ironically, Ola stock soared 61% in August—its best rally since listing—driven by Bhavish Aggarwal's roadmap and China lifting rare earth restrictions. Losses narrowed, but revenue halved year-on-year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Rat Bite Horror in Indore Two newborns bitten by rats inside Indore's government-run MY Hospital died within 24 hours, sparking outrage. Hospital authorities insist the deaths were due to septicemia and congenital conditions, not the bites. But the Madhya Pradesh Human Rights Commission has demanded answers, opposition leaders call it systemic negligence, and the state government has suspended staff and fined the pest control agency. For grieving families, accountability comes too late. China's Power Parade Marking 80 years since WWII, Xi Jinping unveiled a stunning display of military might in Beijing. From hypersonic Yingji missiles and DF-series ICBMs to stealth fighters, drones, and truck-mounted lasers, the showcase highlighted China's growing edge in numbers and technology. Analysts, though, caution that parade power doesn't equal battlefield experience—yet Beijing's message to rivals is unmistakable: it's preparing to outproduce and outpace them. Jaguar Land Rover Cyber Hit Luxury automaker JLR confirmed a cyberattack that forced global system shutdowns, disrupting production and retail. While no customer data breach is evident, the disruption adds to its troubles—delayed EV launches and trade headwinds. The attack highlights how UK firms remain prime targets for sophisticated hackers, raising fresh alarms on corporate cyber readiness. Putin Opens Door to Zelensky Talks In Beijing, Vladimir Putin said he's ready to meet Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky in Moscow—if talks are well-prepared. But he also warned Russia would continue fighting if diplomacy fails. With Trump pushing for a trilateral summit, both sides trade blame for delays. For now, Putin's remarks offer only a slim glimmer of dialogue amid the grinding war. GST Rate Reset Before Diwali Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's GST Council has slashed rates on essentials—footwear and clothes up to ₹2,500 now fall under the 5% slab, doubling the earlier limit. Bigger reforms are coming: most 12% goods will drop to 5%, and many 28% items to 18%. Sin goods stay at 40%. The move ties back to PM Modi's “Diwali gift” promise—lighter bills for households, heavier worries for states losing tax revenue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. India is at the center of some big moves this week—diplomatic, economic, and corporate. In Beijing, Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif tried to woo Vladimir Putin, praising Russia's “balancing act” in South Asia and calling him a “dynamic leader.” But here's the truth—India's ties with Moscow run deeper, built over decades of defense and energy cooperation, far outweighing Islamabad's fresh overtures. Meanwhile, Singapore's new PM Lawrence Wong has chosen New Delhi for his maiden visit, underlining confidence in India's growth story. Deals on aviation, space, finance, and digital innovation are on the table, along with a $1.3 billion PSA port project. Singapore remains India's top investor and is doubling down with plans to put in $15 billion this year. On the energy front, Russia has offered India even bigger discounts on crude, just as the Trump administration slapped 50% tariffs on Indian exports. New Delhi isn't backing down—its refiners find Russian oil too cost-effective to resist. PM Modi reinforced at the SCO summit that Russia remains a “special partner.” Back home, Tata Consultancy Services finally landed a mega deal after a long dry spell—a $640 million contract with Danish insurer Tryg. The win comes at a time when rivals have been snapping up billion-dollar clients and TCS faces investor concerns after weak growth and job cuts. And setting the stage for long-term reform, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a new task force to cut red tape and ease compliance for small businesses, paired with GST reforms. With GDP at 7.8%, inflation at an eight-year low, and a recent S&P upgrade, India's economic resilience is shining through. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Quake Flattens Afghan Villages A 6.0 earthquake has left eastern Afghanistan shattered — more than 800 killed, nearly 3,000 injured. Entire villages in Kunar province are gone, with survivors describing terrifying jolts and endless aftershocks. Helicopters are the only way in as floods and landslides block roads. Hospitals in Jalalabad are overwhelmed, and the Taliban has appealed for urgent international aid. SCO Backs India on Terror At its Tianjin summit, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and backed India's demand that “double standards” on terrorism must end. Leaders from India, China, Russia, and Pakistan signed a declaration pledging zero tolerance for terror and more cooperation against cross-border threats. The statement also condemned violence in Gaza and strikes on Iran, while urging reforms at the UN, IMF, and World Bank. India, however, refused to endorse China's Belt and Road Initiative. Trump Targets India Again US President Donald Trump has reignited trade tensions, calling the India-US equation a “one-sided disaster.” He claimed India has offered to cut tariffs on American goods to “nothing,” but also linked Washington's steep 50% tariffs to India's oil trade with Russia. New Delhi has pushed back, defending farm protections and accusing the US of moving the goalposts. Rupee Sinks to 88.33 The Indian rupee has slipped to a fresh record low of 88.33 against the dollar, pressured by US tariffs, heavy importer hedging, and foreign outflows. Analysts warn it could slide toward 89–90 if the dispute drags on, though RBI may intervene. This comes even as India's economy logged a robust 7.8% growth last quarter. SpiceJet Fined Over Delay A Mumbai consumer court has ordered SpiceJet to pay ₹55,000 to a passenger after a 14-hour Dubai–Mumbai delay where the airline served only a burger and fries. The ruling reminded carriers that technical glitches don't excuse neglecting passengers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Dragon & Elephant Talk Peace In Beijing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping struck a rare note of harmony at the SCO summit. After years of border tensions, both leaders stressed that India and China are “partners, not rivals,” agreeing to resume direct flights and even restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Xi said it was “vital for the dragon and elephant to walk together” in shaping a multipolar world. Macron Rekindles Two-State Push In Paris, Emmanuel Macron reignited the two-state debate by recognizing Palestine, despite protests from Israel and the US. Macron argued Gaza's humanitarian crisis demands urgent action, while critics warned recognition could embolden militants. Several Western nations may follow France's lead at the UN next month. India's Next Biofuel Leap New Delhi is moving its biofuel experiment off the roads and onto construction sites. Bulldozers, cranes and heavy carriers that consume nearly 4% of India's diesel could soon run on blended fuels. The move cuts oil imports, lowers emissions, and boosts farmer incomes by using crop-based fuels. Trump Skips India Visit US President Donald Trump may cancel his India trip and skip the Quad summit after slapping tariffs on Indian goods. Beyond trade, tensions stem from Trump's claim that he personally brokered peace between India and Pakistan — a claim New Delhi strongly rejects. India & Japan Seal $68B Pact In Tokyo, Modi and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced a 10-year roadmap, with Japan pledging $68 billion in private investment into India. Both leaders called it a “golden chapter,” combining Japanese technology and Indian talent to drive growth, while reinforcing security ties in the Indo-Pacific. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. F-35 Crash: Ice Brings Down $200M Jet In Alaska, a $200 million F-35 fighter jet crashed after its pilot spent nearly an hour circling mid-air on a live call with Lockheed Martin engineers. The cause? Ice in the hydraulic lines that froze the landing gear and tricked the jet into “ground mode.” The pilot ejected safely, but the crash added to a tally of 15 F-35 accidents worldwide. Earlier this year, another F-35 was grounded in Kerala and one made an emergency landing in Japan—raising questions about the reliability of America's most advanced fighter. India's First Made-in-India Chip Rolls Out In Sanand, Gujarat, India celebrated a milestone as IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the country's first packaged semiconductor chip from CG Semi's pilot OSAT facility. The ₹600 crore G1 unit can produce half a million chips a day, with a much larger G2 plant set to follow next year. Together, they aim for 4.7 billion chips annually, serving electronics, auto, and EV sectors. Sanand is fast becoming India's chip hub under the ₹76,000 crore Semiconductor Mission. 40% of Urban Women Feel Unsafe: NARI 2025 A new survey across 31 cities shows 40% of women in India's urban areas feel unsafe. In 2024, 7% reported harassment—100 times higher than official crime data. Delhi, Kolkata, Ranchi, and Patna ranked least safe, while Mumbai and Kohima were rated safer. Only 22% reported incidents to authorities; over half were unsure if their workplaces had the legally mandated POSH policy. Groww Eyes $1B IPO Amid Investor Exodus Bengaluru-based Groww has SEBI's approval to raise $800 million–$1 billion in an IPO. Backed by GIC, Tiger Global, and Satya Nadella, Groww heads to markets even as discount brokers lost nearly 2 million clients in 2025. Stricter SEBI rules on F&O trading have cooled retail participation. Still, Groww's profits tripled to ₹1,819 crore, showing strength despite the turbulence. India to Be World's No. 2 Economy by 2038: EY EY projects India's GDP at $34.2 trillion by 2038 in purchasing power parity terms, overtaking most economies. PPP, which adjusts for cost-of-living differences, shows India's consumer strength and competitiveness more accurately than volatile market exchange rates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. US Tightens Visas DHS plans to scrap open-ended stays for students and visitors, capping F and J visas at four years, cutting grace periods, and limiting program changes. Officials cite security and oversight as millions enter each year. India's New War Doctrines Three doctrines unveiled—Special Forces, airborne ops, and multi-domain warfare—aim to unify the Army, Navy, and Air Force for future conflicts across land, sea, space, and cyber. Modi in Japan PM Modi begins his first solo visit to Japan in seven years. Talks with PM Ishiba will cover semiconductors, EVs, bullet trains, and Indo-Pacific security under the Quad. Next stop: China for the SCO summit. Tariff Tensions US tariffs on Indian goods now at 50%, targeting Russian oil buys. Treasury chief Bessent says ties are “complicated” but insists Modi and Trump will “come together.” India calls the move unjustified. Gangwal's Mega Exit IndiGo co-founder Rakesh Gangwal turns a ₹15 crore bet into ₹45,000 crore, pulling off one of the most spectacular exits in Indian business history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Trump's 50% Tariffs on India Starting August 27, Indian exports to the US will face a steep 50% tariff. President Trump doubled duties earlier this month, punishing India for buying Russian oil—a move New Delhi calls “unfair and unreasonable.” Pharma, electronics, and key metals are exempt, but most exports will be hit. PM Modi, striking a defiant note, urged Indians to go “swadeshi” while officials brace exporters for a slowdown. US Pushes ‘Gold Card' Visa Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says the Trump administration is set to overhaul the H1-B and green card system. The proposed “Gold Card” would give residency to foreigners investing $5 million. Officials claim 250,000 people are already interested, potentially generating $1.25 trillion. H1-B visas, meanwhile, could shift from a lottery to a wage-based system, prioritising higher-paying jobs—tough news for Indian tech workers. Modi to Attend SCO in China PM Modi will travel to Tianjin next week for the SCO summit—his first China visit in seven years. Alongside Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, leaders from across Asia will attend what Beijing hopes is a show of Global South unity. Analysts say Modi may use the moment to reset ties with China after the 2020 border clashes, while Xi will showcase a “post-American-led world.” US-Russia Explore Energy Deals Even as India is punished for trading with Russia, Washington may be cutting its own deals with Moscow. Reports suggest talks are on to let Exxon Mobil re-enter Russia's Sakhalin-1 project, allow sales of US equipment for LNG projects, and even buy nuclear icebreakers from Russia. The timing raises eyebrows: Trump penalises India for Russian oil but explores energy ties with Putin himself. HAL Orders 113 Jet Engines HAL is set to sign a $1 billion deal with GE Aerospace for 113 GE-404 engines to power nearly 200 LCA Mk-1A fighters. These jets will replace India's retiring MiG-21s. Delivery delays, however, have raised doubts within the Air Force. HAL is also negotiating joint production of GE-414 engines for the upcoming LCA Mk-2, a deal with 80% tech transfer—crucial to India's defence self-reliance push. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. MiG-21 Retires After nearly 60 years in service, India's iconic MiG-21 is flying into history. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh marked the farewell with a formation flight alongside No. 23 Squadron, led by Sqn Ldr Priya. Official retirement comes on September 26, closing a legendary chapter in IAF history. Trump Targets India From the Oval Office, Donald Trump praised China while warning India. He spared Beijing but pressed ahead with a 50% tariff on Indian imports, citing New Delhi's sharp rise in Russian oil purchases—from under 1% before the Ukraine war to 42% after. Half the tariff is already in place; the rest lands this week. MAGA vs Trump Trump also stirred his base by saying the US would welcome 600,000 Chinese students. Supporters erupted online, calling it a betrayal of “America First.” With 277,000 Chinese students already in US universities and new visa restrictions announced earlier this year, his comment struck many as contradictory. Mail to US Halted Taiwan joined India and Europe in suspending postal services to America after Washington scrapped its duty-free exemption for imports under $800. Now, every international parcel faces customs duties, leaving families, small businesses, and e-commerce players scrambling as the US mailbox effectively shuts to the world. New Tax Rules India readies its Income Tax Act, 2025. To ease transition, CBDT will issue an SOP on digital seizures, clarifying how officials can access electronic data. Ramesh Narain Parbat stressed no new powers were added, only clearer wording. The aim: consistency, transparency, and predictability for taxpayers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. 1. Putin's Three Demands to End the War What does Vladimir Putin actually want to end the war in Ukraine? For the first time, we have a clear picture. Sources close to the Kremlin say Putin has three core demands, reportedly discussed during his recent summit with Donald Trump. First, Ukraine must cede the entire Donbas region. Second, it must abandon its ambition to join NATO. And third, it must remain officially neutral, with no Western troops ever stationed on its soil. 2. India's Defiant Message to the U.S. India's top diplomat just sent a very clear message to Washington—from inside Moscow. As the U.S. slapped new tariffs on Indian goods over its energy trade with Russia, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Vladimir Putin. At a press conference, Jaishankar didn't hold back. "We are not the biggest purchasers of Russian oil—that is China... So why single out India?" he asked, calling the U.S. logic "very perplexing." 3. One Tragic Crash Halts All Foreign Trucker Visas in the U.S. A tragic crash in Florida has triggered a sweeping U.S. government response. Three people were killed after an undocumented Indian national, Harjinder Singh, attempted a reckless U-turn in a tractor-trailer. It was later discovered Singh had obtained a commercial driver's license from California. Now, Washington has slammed the brakes, freezing all new worker visas for foreign truck drivers, effective immediately. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. India flexed its defence muscle by successfully test-firing the Agni-5 ballistic missile from Odisha's Chandipur range. With a 5,000-km range, it can strike deep into Asia—including northern China—and even parts of Europe. Developed by DRDO, an upgraded 7,500-km version is in the works. The Agni-5 family, now equipped with MIRV tech that can deliver multiple nuclear warheads, sits atop India's deterrence strategy. PM Modi hailed it as another leap in defence modernisation. In just seven minutes, the Lok Sabha passed one of the toughest gaming laws in the world. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, bans all money-based online games—from fantasy cricket to poker and rummy. Operators face up to three years in jail and fines of ₹1 crore; advertising carries its own penalties. With 450 million users and ₹31,000 crore in annual revenues, the industry calls it a “death knell” for 400 startups, 200,000 jobs, and ₹20,000 crore in tax revenues. Critics warn it could drive players to offshore sites, while the government insists e-Sports remain untouched. The bill now heads to the Rajya Sabha. High drama in Parliament as Amit Shah introduced three bills to disqualify the PM, CMs, or ministers if jailed for over 30 days on charges carrying a minimum five-year sentence. Pitched as an anti-corruption measure, the Opposition erupted—calling it unconstitutional, warning it undermines the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.” With memories of Kejriwal and Soren's arrests fresh, fears of political misuse loom large. The bills are now with a Joint Parliamentary Committee, due to report back in November. Even as US tariffs pile up, Moscow assured India its oil supply is safe. “We have a very special mechanism,” said Russian officials, confirming crude flows to India's Vadinar refinery remain unaffected by EU sanctions. India now sources nearly 40% of its crude from Russia. On defence, Moscow reminded Delhi it remains the “partner of choice,” citing BrahMos and the S-400's “successful battle test” in May. With trade at $68.7 billion but a $60 billion imbalance, Russia pledged to ease access and hit $100 billion by 2030. Putin is expected in India later this year. Five years after walking away, India is reconsidering the world's biggest trade bloc—RCEP. With Trump's tariffs biting and China easing curbs on exports to India, Delhi is reassessing the costs and benefits of joining the 15-nation pact. Officials want assurances from China and ASEAN for greater market access, especially for pharma and IT. Studies highlight untapped export potential of $161 billion to China, mostly in high-tech goods. With Modi heading to Beijing for the SCO summit, the signals are clear: India is warming up to the East again, even as it faces pressure from the West. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories.Monorail Chaos in Mumbai It was a rescue straight out of a disaster drill. Heavy rain stalled two Mumbai monorails on Tuesday—one carrying 200 passengers, another with 582—leaving hundreds trapped mid-air for hours. The worst was at Mysore Colony, where rescuers smashed windows and used cranes and scissor lifts to evacuate over 500 people from a train stuck on a curve. By 9:50 pm, all were safe. Another train between Wadala and Acharya Atre was towed back after 200 passengers were rescued. Officials blamed overcrowding: the monorail overshot its 104-tonne limit, hitting 109 tonnes, which snapped power contact and jammed brakes. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde called it “a major accident averted,” while CM Devendra Fadnavis ordered an inquiry. Meanwhile, local trains—the city's lifeline—were also hit, with 17 inches of water flooding tracks. For commuters, it was another monsoon reminder of how fragile Mumbai's transport really is. India is preparing a sweeping ban on online games played with money, potentially shaking a sector worth billions. A draft bill reviewed by Reuters says no one can “offer, aid or engage” in real-money gaming. That would put fantasy cricket giants Dream11 ($8B) and Mobile Premier League ($2.5B) in the firing line. The government argues these apps use “addictive algorithms” that fuel compulsive behaviour and financial ruin. Offenders could face up to three years in jail. With India's gaming market projected at $3.6B by 2029, the ban could send shockwaves through investors. Popular during IPL season, these apps allow entry for as little as 8 rupees with million-rupee prize pools, often endorsed by cricket stars. Now the government's message is blunt: play for fun, not for money. As India pulls back, China is stepping in. Analysts say Chinese refiners bought 15 cargoes of Russian Urals crude for October–November, each up to a million barrels. Until last month, India was Russia's biggest seaborne buyer, but shrinking discounts made state refiners pause—cutting imports by nearly 700,000 barrels/day. China, the world's top importer, usually buys ESPO crude from Russia's Far East, but cheaper Urals—priced $2–3 below Middle Eastern oil—sparked fresh demand. The shift could pressure Dubai crude, already softening. Yet, analysts caution Beijing won't absorb all volumes; Urals isn't a staple grade for its refineries. Another risk: U.S. sanctions. Donald Trump hinted penalties could hit buyers of Russian oil “in two or three weeks” if peace talks stall. For now, the balance tilts: India out, China in—with Washington watching. The Opposition's Vice-Presidential candidate, B. Sudershan Reddy, kept his message simple: “There's only one citizenship in this country.” He faces NDA nominee and Maharashtra governor CP Radhakrishnan in the September 9 vote. Both hail from the south—Radhakrishnan from Tamil Nadu, Reddy from Andhra Pradesh—adding a subtle regional undertone. But Reddy, a former Supreme Court judge and Goa's first Lokayukta, stressed unity: MPs, not the public, elect the Vice President, he reminded. Born in 1946, Reddy rose from Andhra Pradesh's High Court to Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, and in 2007, the Supreme Court, serving until 2011. His candidacy, announced at Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's residence, sets up a heated Parliament battle. In a move seen as breaking the ice, India scrapped customs duty and cess on cotton imports until September 30. The exemption, cutting the 11% levy to zero, directly benefits American exporters pushing for access amid escalating tariffs. Cotton is critical for India—employing 35 million people and driving 80% of textile exports. With domestic output slipping and prices tight, the duty cut also helps local mills ahead of the festive season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Trump Pushes Biggest Ukraine Breakthrough Yet After nearly four years of war, Washington may have delivered the most concrete peace opening so far. On Monday, President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky and seven top European leaders to discuss security guarantees for Kyiv. The real headline came right after: Trump called Vladimir Putin for a 40-minute conversation and set the stage for a potential Putin–Zelensky face-to-face within two weeks. Trump later said he hopes to follow that with a trilateral summit including himself. Zelensky described his meeting with Trump as the “best conversation so far,” while NATO's Mark Rutte hailed Trump's offer of NATO-style guarantees as a “breakthrough.” France's Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Friedrich Merz called for Europe's role in shaping long-term security and pressed for a ceasefire as a first step. Italy's Giorgia Meloni and Britain's Keir Starmer stressed that only ironclad safeguards can deliver lasting peace. Finland's Alexander Stubb noted more progress in two weeks “than in three and a half years.” For the first time in years, the US, EU, and Ukraine seem aligned on a peace path. India's Big GST Reset Before Diwali On Independence Day, the Finance Ministry announced sweeping reforms to simplify GST. Instead of four slabs—5, 12, 18 and 28 percent—the new plan proposes just three: 5, 18, and a 40 percent “sin tax” for items like tobacco and beer. Nearly all goods in the 12 percent bracket could drop to 5 percent, making groceries, medicines, footwear, and even appliances cheaper. Most 28 percent items would shift to 18 percent, cutting costs on furniture, electronics and more.  Putin Calls Modi Amid Peace Push While Trump worked the phones with Putin, Moscow also reached out to New Delhi. On Monday, Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi, briefing him on the Alaska talks with Trump. Modi reiterated India's consistent line—support for dialogue and a peaceful settlement. The timing was striking: just hours before Trump's White House meeting with Zelensky. Yet this diplomatic outreach comes with pressure.  India–China Relations Thawing For the first time since the bloody Galwan clashes of 2020, India and China are signaling a thaw. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi, insisting that peace and de-escalation along the Line of Actual Control are essential. “Differences must not become disputes,” he said. Already, concrete steps are visible: the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has resumed after five years, India has reopened tourist visas for Chinese nationals, and talks are underway to restart direct flights. Wang Yi pointed to “shared confidence” driving progress and said both nations can offer stability to Asia and the world. The real test could come later this month, when Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping are expected to meet on the sidelines of the SCO Summit—potentially turning a painful page in bilateral ties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Putin's ‘Jelly Legs' Steal Spotlight Forget the Alaska handshake—what went viral after Trump and Putin's summit was the Russian president's shaky stance. Kremlin footage showed Putin's knee twitching and toes lifting as he chatted with Trump, sparking a flood of online theories. Ukrainians joked about hidden shoe lifts and exoskeletons, while others speculated about illness, dubbing it “jelly legs.” Some even claimed it wasn't Putin at all, but a body double—pointing to his missing “gunslinger gait,” a hallmark of his KGB training. The Kremlin has stayed silent, but the optics of wobbly knees may have upstaged Trump's claims of “big progress.” India-US Trade Talks Collapse A breakthrough in India-US trade is off the table for now. Washington has called off its negotiators' trip to New Delhi, originally planned for August 25–29. That leaves little hope of avoiding Trump's steep new tariffs—hiked to 50% on Indian goods—set to take effect August 27. Trump says the penalties are “punishment” for India's Russian oil purchases, which he argues bankroll Moscow's war. Five rounds of talks collapsed over two sticking points: opening India's farm and dairy markets, and cutting oil ties with Russia. India hit back, accusing the US and Europe of hypocrisy for still buying Russian goods. For now, tariffs are locked in, and businesses brace for impact. NDA Picks CP Radhakrishnan as VP Candidate India's ruling NDA has named Maharashtra Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan as its candidate for Vice-President. Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi made the announcement on August 17, with elections slated for September 9. A veteran BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan has served as governor in multiple states and is a two-time MP from Coimbatore. His nomination balances experience with regional representation, and the NDA's numbers got a boost as Shiv Sena pledged unconditional support. The move is seen as another carefully placed piece in India's political chessboard. Trump Teases ‘Big Progress' with Russia President Trump is fanning speculation after his three-hour Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin—the first time Putin has set foot on Western soil since 2022. On Truth Social, Trump posted in all caps: “BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED!” His envoy later hinted at “game-changing” security guarantees for Ukraine, though reports suggest a controversial land-for-peace deal could be on the table. Alarmed, European leaders will join Zelensky in Washington for urgent talks with Trump. Macron, Starmer, Meloni, Merz, and Ursula von der Leyen are flying in, hoping to stiffen Ukraine's position as Trump presses for a quick peace. The stage is set for a high-stakes diplomatic showdown. Apple's ₹1,000-Crore Bengaluru Bet Apple has made a blockbuster real estate move in Bengaluru—inking a 10-year lease worth over ₹1,000 crore for nearly 2.7 lakh sq ft in Embassy Zenith, a new tower built on the old Le Meridien site. The rent—₹235 per sq ft per month—sets a city record, with Apple shelling out ₹6.3 crore every month for nine floors, plus parking for 362 cars. The lease includes a 4.5% annual hike and an option to expand further. Propstack's Raja Seetharaman calls it a “huge vote of confidence” in India, aligning Apple's office expansion with its booming iPhone manufacturing push. Together, it cements India's role at the center of Apple's global supply chain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. Wang Yi's Delhi Visit: Setting the Stage for Modi's China Trip China's foreign minister Wang Yi will be in New Delhi on August 18 to meet NSA Ajit Doval under the Special Representatives dialogue — just ahead of PM Modi's August 31 visit to Beijing for the SCO summit. The talks aim to rebuild ties fractured by the 2020 Galwan clash that killed 20 Indian soldiers. Recent thaw signs include meetings between EAM Jaishankar and Wang, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's China visit, and the resumption of direct Delhi-Beijing flights. Analysts say Trump's 50% tariff hike on Indian imports has also pushed New Delhi to keep Beijing channels open. Perplexity's $34.5B Bid for Google Chrome AI search startup Perplexity, led by Aravind Srinivas, has made an audacious $34.5B cash offer to buy Google Chrome — despite being valued at just $18B. The firm, backed by Nvidia and SoftBank, says unnamed funds are ready to finance the deal. Chrome's 3B users could supercharge Perplexity's AI browser, Comet. Google hasn't put Chrome up for sale but faces monopoly rulings and interest from OpenAI, Yahoo, and Apollo. Karnataka MLC Admits to Killing 2,800 Stray Dogs JDS MLC SL Bhojegowda told the Karnataka Legislative Council he poisoned and buried 2,800 stray dogs to curb attacks on poor children. His statement came days after the Supreme Court ordered all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR removed to shelters within eight weeks. The admission has sparked outrage from animal rights groups and could lead to legal consequences. Zelensky Rejects Donbas ‘Land Swap' Ahead of Trump-Putin Talks With Trump and Putin set to meet in Alaska to discuss ending the Ukraine war, President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out ceding Donbas. He insists Ukraine must be part of the talks and warns the region is key to Russia's future offensives. Trump says he'll try to win back some territory for Ukraine, but Putin wants Kyiv to withdraw entirely from Donetsk and Luhansk — 9,000 sq km of land Russia hasn't fully seized in over a decade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I'm Nelson John and here are today's top stories. SOUTH AFRICA RUSHES TO AVOID US TARIFF HIT South Africa is racing to avert the US's steepest sub-Saharan tariff yet — 30% on some exports. Pretoria says it's ready to offer a “broad, generous” trade deal, including more imports of US poultry, blueberries, and pork, to save an estimated 30,000 jobs in an economy with 33.2% unemployment. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and Trade Minister Parks Tau argue SA exports — just 0.25% of US imports — aren't a threat. Talks, however, are tangled with US concerns over SA's land reform and race-based job laws, which Trump has criticised. Steenhuisen calls it a “new era” of tariffs tied to politics, while Tau brands the process “unprecedented” and outside WTO norms. INDIA–CHINA FLIGHTS SET FOR TAKE-OFF After four years, direct India–China flights could return by September. New Delhi has told carriers to be ready, with an announcement expected at the SCO summit in China. IndiGo is already preparing. Flights were halted after the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes that froze ties. Recent thaw: India resumed tourist visas for Chinese nationals and agreed to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. PM Modi is due in Tianjin on Aug 31 for his first China visit in seven years. ULTRAVIOLETTE CHARGES UP WITH $21M FUNDING Bengaluru-based premium e-motorcycle maker Ultraviolette has raised $21M, led by Japan's TDK Ventures, with continued backing from Zoho, Lingotto, and notable angel investors. Funds will scale manufacturing, R&D, and expand retail from 20 to 100 cities. CEO Narayan Subramaniam says the TDK tie-up accelerates its push for advanced batteries, intelligent systems, and global expansion. NEW TAX ERA FOR INDIA Parliament has passed the Income Tax Bill, 2025, replacing the 1961 Act from April 1, 2026. The rewrite halves the law's size to 536 sections, swaps “assessment year” for “tax year,” reintroduces some deductions, and keeps tax rates unchanged. It enables tech-driven faceless assessments but retains search-and-seizure powers, raising privacy concerns. The Bill now awaits the President's assent. ₹18,500 CR PUSH FOR CHIPS, POWER & METRO The Union Cabinet has cleared ₹18,500 crore for manufacturing and infrastructure. Four new semiconductor projects in Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh — including a silicon carbide fab in Bhubaneswar — will create 2,000+ skilled jobs. Also approved: the ₹8,146 crore 700 MW Tato-II hydro project in Arunachal Pradesh and Lucknow Metro's ₹5,801 crore Phase-1B expansion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices