As global travel undergoes rapid transformation driven by technology, evolving traveller expectations and changing mobility frameworks, leaders from across government, diplomacy, tourism, aviation, hospitality and technology will convene in New Delhi on 23 September for the WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026.The summit will explore some of the most pressing issues shaping global mobility today, from visa policy and border management to biometric travel, digital transformation, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in enhancing traveller experiences. The event will conclude with the Iconic Awards 2026, recognising outstanding individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the travel and tourism industry.Part of the WION World Conferences series, the event at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, is presented by VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services enabling secure international mobility, which this year marks 25 years of facilitating seamless cross-border travel.The event is being organised in association with Red Hat Communications.&nbsp;Speaking about the event, Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, VFS Global said:&nbsp;“As technology continues to reshape industries and customer expectations, meaningful conversations on innovation have never been more important. We are pleased to be associated with the WION-Red Hat Iconic Tourism Summit 2026, a platform that brings together leaders and changemakers to discuss the technologies, ideas, and partnerships driving the future. At VFS Global, we remain committed to leveraging innovation and digital transformation to enhance customer experiences that enable secure and seamless mobility solutions worldwide.”&nbsp;Raktim Das, CEO, Zee Media Corporation Limited, said: “Travel is one of the few ecosystems that brings the world together — connecting destinations with people, cultures with experiences, and businesses with new possibilities. At WION — World Is One — this idea of a connected world is at the heart of what we do. The Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards is one such initiative – it has been envisioned to bring together the entire travel ecosystem into one conversation — from tourism boards, hospitality and aviation to technology, experiences, investors and innovators shaping the future of travel.”&nbsp;Jyoti Mayal, CEO of Red Hat Communications and Chairperson of THSC said: “At ICONIC, we believe progress begins with inspired minds and is sustained by celebrated achievements. Through the ICONIC Tourism Summit and Awards, we bring together the finest industry voices to share knowledge, exchange learnings, challenge perspectives, and inspire new possibilities, while honouring the individuals and organisations who transform these ideas into impact. This event creates a platform that inspires minds, celebrates excellence, and strengthens the future of tourism and beyond.”&nbsp;<h2>The Summit sessions</h2><h3>Borders without barriers: The diplomacy of visas and mobility</h3>This session focuses on one of the most powerful enablers of global travel and tourism: seamless cross-border mobility. It will explore how countries are enhancing travel access for Indian travellers through initiatives such as e-visas, visa-free arrangements, accelerated processing, and digital travel credentials. The discussion will also examine how greater ease of movement can strengthen tourism, foster deeper business and trade engagement, expand educational opportunities, and reinforce people-to-people connections between India and the world.<h3>Soft power on the move: Tourism, culture and bilateral ties</h3>Tourism is arguably the most durable form of diplomatic relations. This session discusses how nations use cultural exchange, film, cuisine and travel promotion to deepen bilateral relationships, and how Indian outbound tourism has become a soft-power constituency, not just a commercial opportunity.<h3>The business of travel: Aviation, hospitality and India's tourism infrastructure story</h3>This session covers airline capacity, airport expansion, hospitality investment and the infrastructure race to serve India's growing outbound and inbound travel demand. The focus is on whether supply is arriving fast enough to meet the demand.<h2>Travel Tech frontiers&nbsp;</h2>This discussion will take a broader look at how technology is transforming travel, from use of AI in trip planning and biometric airport experiences to digital visas, smart border control and fraud-resistant travel documentation.&nbsp;<h3>Iconic Awards 2026: An evening of excellence</h3>The Iconic Awards 2026, the closing event of the summit, will recognise achievement across travel, hospitality and luxury.&nbsp;The Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026&nbsp;will see a large presence of diplomats from close to 20 countries.It’s going to be a wholesome experience where India's top voices in travel, tourism and hospitality explore the journeys, experiences and ideas defining the destinations of tomorrow: a single stack of discussions, debate, appreciation and fireside conversations.

Ministers, ambassadors, leaders from the visa, aviation and hospitality sectors, along with technology innovators, will gather in New Delhi on 23 September for the WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026 to discuss the future of global mobility and travel.

As global travel undergoes rapid transformation driven by technology, evolving traveller expectations and changing mobility frameworks, leaders from across government, diplomacy, tourism, aviation, hospitality and technology will convene in New Delhi on 23 September for the WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026. The summit will explore some of the most pressing issues shaping global mobility today, from visa policy and border management to biometric travel, digital transformation, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in enhancing traveller experiences. The event will conclude with the Iconic Awards 2026, recognising outstanding individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the travel and tourism industry. Part of the WION World Conferences series, the event at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, is presented by VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services enabling secure international mobility, which this year marks 25 years of facilitating seamless cross-border travel. The event is being organised in association with Red Hat Communications. Speaking about the event, Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, VFS Global said: “As technology continues to reshape industries and customer expectations, meaningful conversations on innovation have never been more important. We are pleased to be associated with the WION-Red Hat Iconic Tourism Summit 2026, a platform that brings together leaders and changemakers to discuss the technologies, ideas, and partnerships driving the future. At VFS Global, we remain committed to leveraging innovation and digital transformation to enhance customer experiences that enable secure and seamless mobility solutions worldwide.” Raktim Das, CEO, Zee Media Corporation Limited, said: “Travel is one of the few ecosystems that brings the world together — connecting destinations with people, cultures with experiences, and businesses with new possibilities. At WION — World Is One — this idea of a connected world is at the heart of what we do. The Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards is one such initiative – it has been envisioned to bring together the entire travel ecosystem into one conversation — from tourism boards, hospitality and aviation to technology, experiences, investors and innovators shaping the future of travel.” Jyoti Mayal, CEO of Red Hat Communications and Chairperson of THSC said: “At ICONIC, we believe progress begins with inspired minds and is sustained by celebrated achievements. Through the ICONIC Tourism Summit and Awards, we bring together the finest industry voices to share knowledge, exchange learnings, challenge perspectives, and inspire new possibilities, while honouring the individuals and organisations who transform these ideas into impact. This event creates a platform that inspires minds, celebrates excellence, and strengthens the future of tourism and beyond.” The Summit sessions Borders without barriers: The diplomacy of visas and mobility This session focuses on one of the most powerful enablers of global travel and tourism: seamless cross-border mobility. It will explore how countries are enhancing travel access for Indian travellers through initiatives such as e-visas, visa-free arrangements, accelerated processing, and digital travel credentials. The discussion will also examine how greater ease of movement can strengthen tourism, foster deeper business and trade engagement, expand educational opportunities, and reinforce people-to-people connections between India and the world. Soft power on the move: Tourism, culture and bilateral ties Tourism is arguably the most durable form of diplomatic relations. This session discusses how nations use cultural exchange, film, cuisine and travel promotion to deepen bilateral relationships, and how Indian outbound tourism has become a soft-power constituency, not just a commercial opportunity. The business of travel: Aviation, hospitality and India's tourism infrastructure story This session covers airline capacity, airport expansion, hospitality investment and the infrastructure race to serve India's growing outbound and inbound travel demand. The focus is on whether supply is arriving fast enough to meet the demand. Travel Tech frontiers This discussion will take a broader look at how technology is transforming travel, from use of AI in trip planning and biometric airport experiences to digital visas, smart border control and fraud-resistant travel documentation. Iconic Awards 2026: An evening of excellence The Iconic Awards 2026, the closing event of the summit, will recognise achievement across travel, hospitality and luxury. The Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards 2026 will see a large presence of diplomats from close to 20 countries. It’s going to be a wholesome experience where India's top voices in travel, tourism and hospitality explore the journeys, experiences and ideas defining the destinations of tomorrow: a single stack of discussions, debate, appreciation and fireside conversations.

Ministers, ambassadors, leaders from the visa, aviation and hospitality sectors, along with technology innovators, will gather in New Delhi on 23 September for the WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026 to discuss the future of global mobility and travel.

WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Iconic Awards 2026: India's travel economy leaders gather in Delhi

Netflix has unveiled the first look of Unaccustomed Earth, a groundbreaking new family drama about a tight-knit Indian American community navigating love, longing, loss and belonging. Inspired by the internationally beloved Jhumpa Lahiri's short story collection of the same name, the series follows multi-generational families living in Cambridge and Boston, Massachusetts.<h2>The story of Unaccustomed Earth</h2>The story revolves around Parul Chaudhury, played by Freida Pinto, a wife and mother who once sacrificed her college first love to honour her father's wishes.&nbsp;After receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis, Parul moves her family from India back to Cambridge, Massachusetts, the place where she truly felt at home.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/rn-kao-biopic-karan-johar-announces-film-on-r-aw-founder-1789976026835">RN Kao biopic: Karan Johar announces film on R&amp;AW founder</a>&nbsp;Determined to finally pursue the life she never got to live before it is too late, Parul makes a series of radical choices that upend the lives of those closest to her.&nbsp;Her decisions also change the fabric of the immigrant community around her, bringing questions of love, loss, identity and belonging to the forefront.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/south-cinema/idsffk-2026-31-films-await-screening-clearance-kerala-minister-asks-for-centre-s-response-1789970518442">IDSFFK 2026: 31 films await screening clearance</a><h2>About Unaccustomed Earth</h2>It is adapted by Madhuri Shekar, who also serves as the show's showrunner and writer. Shekar is known for her work on 3 Body Problem and The Nevers. The series is executive produced by Shekar, John Wells, Jhumpa Lahiri, Nisha Ganatra, Erica Saleh, Erin Jontow and Celia Costas, while Ritesh Batra will direct and executive produce episodes 101 and 102.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/naga-film-angh-wins-top-jury-award-at-tiff-2026-secures-direct-oscars-2027-qualification-1789968249346">Naga film Angh wins top jury award at TIFF 2026, secures direct entry to Oscar</a>&nbsp;The series stars Freida Pinto as Parul, Siddharth as Amit, Indraneil Sengupta as Jai, Parveen Kaur as Nina, Sarayu Blue as Ruma, Justin Bartha as Adam, Adi Roy as Kaushik, Iyla Sundarsingh Mckaig as Hema and Jayant Kripalani as Pranab.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/south-cinema/mysaa-teaser-rashmika-mandanna-flaunts-raw-rugged-avatar-in-action-packed-film-watch-1789966733239">Mysaa teaser: Rashmika Mandanna flaunts raw, rugged avatar in action-packed film</a>&nbsp;The additional cast includes Ishita Bansal as Divya, Meera Simham as Swati, Ravi Kapoor as Vishal, Swayam Bhatia as Sudha and Palomi Ghosh as Anjali.&nbsp;Unaccustomed Earth is produced by Warner Bros. Television and will stream on Netflix from December 17, 2026. &nbsp;

The first look of Netflix's Unaccustomed Earth has been unveiled. Featuring Freida Pinto and Siddharth, the family drama is inspired by Jhumpa Lahiri’s acclaimed short story collection.

Netflix has unveiled the first look of Unaccustomed Earth, a groundbreaking new family drama about a tight-knit Indian American community navigating love, longing, loss and belonging. Inspired by the internationally beloved Jhumpa Lahiri's short story collection of the same name, the series follows multi-generational families living in Cambridge and Boston, Massachusetts. The story of Unaccustomed Earth The story revolves around Parul Chaudhury, played by Freida Pinto, a wife and mother who once sacrificed her college first love to honour her father's wishes. After receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis, Parul moves her family from India back to Cambridge, Massachusetts, the place where she truly felt at home. Also Read: RN Kao biopic: Karan Johar announces film on R&AW founder Determined to finally pursue the life she never got to live before it is too late, Parul makes a series of radical choices that upend the lives of those closest to her. Her decisions also change the fabric of the immigrant community around her, bringing questions of love, loss, identity and belonging to the forefront. Also Read: IDSFFK 2026: 31 films await screening clearance About Unaccustomed Earth It is adapted by Madhuri Shekar, who also serves as the show's showrunner and writer. Shekar is known for her work on 3 Body Problem and The Nevers. The series is executive produced by Shekar, John Wells, Jhumpa Lahiri, Nisha Ganatra, Erica Saleh, Erin Jontow and Celia Costas, while Ritesh Batra will direct and executive produce episodes 101 and 102. Also Read: Naga film Angh wins top jury award at TIFF 2026, secures direct entry to Oscar The series stars Freida Pinto as Parul, Siddharth as Amit, Indraneil Sengupta as Jai, Parveen Kaur as Nina, Sarayu Blue as Ruma, Justin Bartha as Adam, Adi Roy as Kaushik, Iyla Sundarsingh Mckaig as Hema and Jayant Kripalani as Pranab. Also Read: Mysaa teaser: Rashmika Mandanna flaunts raw, rugged avatar in action-packed film The additional cast includes Ishita Bansal as Divya, Meera Simham as Swati, Ravi Kapoor as Vishal, Swayam Bhatia as Sudha and Palomi Ghosh as Anjali. Unaccustomed Earth is produced by Warner Bros. Television and will stream on Netflix from December 17, 2026.

The first look of Netflix's Unaccustomed Earth has been unveiled. Featuring Freida Pinto and Siddharth, the family drama is inspired by Jhumpa Lahiri’s acclaimed short story collection.

Unaccustomed Earth first look: Freida Pinto, Siddharth feature in Netflix's new family drama

The 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK) is facing uncertainty regarding the screening of 31 films. The hurdle comes after the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting denied granting an exemption from certification requirements. The festival is set to happen in Thiruvananthapuram from September 25 to 30.<h2>Kerala Minister reveals no explanation from Centre</h2>According to Kerala Tourism, Culture and Cinema Minister P C Vishnunadh, the Centre has not given an explanation for why the 31 films were not cleared, despite the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy following the required procedure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/naga-film-angh-wins-top-jury-award-at-tiff-2026-secures-direct-oscars-2027-qualification-1789968249346">Naga film Angh wins top jury award at TIFF 2026, secures direct entry to Oscar</a>&nbsp;"They (Centre) had asked for detailed synopses for several of these films, which we sent the next day. Around 31 films have not been granted permission for screening. Neither has the ministry stated reasons for not granting permission nor has it said that it is denying permission. It has only sent us the list of films that have been granted permission," the minister said in the official statement, as quoted by HT.&nbsp;Vishnunadh has called on the Union ministry to review the decision. “Denying permission to screen films that have gone through such a rigorous selection process amounts to curbing the curatorial freedom of film festivals.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/south-cinema/mysaa-teaser-rashmika-mandanna-flaunts-raw-rugged-avatar-in-action-packed-film-watch-1789966733239">Mysaa teaser: Rashmika Mandanna flaunts raw, rugged avatar in action-packed film</a>&nbsp;Documentaries and short films are vital art forms that capture diverse social realities and perspectives. The essence of an international film festival lies in making space for differing ideas, questions and discussions. Audiences should have the freedom to watch films and form, express and critique their own views independently,” he said.<h2>What's the matter?</h2>The Chalachitra Academy had approached the Union ministry with a list of 347 films, seeking exemption from certification so they could be screened at the festival. The initial submission contained summaries of the films' themes.After a request from the ministry, detailed synopses and screeners for 40 films were later submitted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/south-cinema/jailer-2-vidya-balan-joins-rajinikanth-s-upcoming-film-as-kantha-watch-1789961978432">Jailer 2: Vidya Balan joins Rajinikanth's upcoming film as Kantha | Watch</a>&nbsp;Of these, 31 films have not received the required permission.&nbsp;The affected titles include 18 films from the festival's official selection, nine from the International Non-Fiction section, three from the Festival Winners section and one from the Nepal Package. A Malayalam film is also awaiting clearance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-ott-releases-this-week-september-21-27-2026-shaque-trust-no-one-hunkkaar-don-t-be-shy-5-new-titles-coming-to-netflix-prime-video-and-more-1789906649908">New OTT releases this week (September 21-27, 2026): 5 new titles coming to OTT</a>&nbsp;According to reports, the films named in reports include Parliament Street, Sanitised Republic: Cast(e) and Contracts, Globe, Memories of a Window, Birds of War, Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk and Our Land.&nbsp;The festival is scheduled to begin in Thiruvananthapuram on September 25 and continue until September 30.&nbsp;

IDSFFK is facing an issue over the screening of 31 films. According to  Kerala Tourism, Culture and Cinema Minister P C Vishnunadh, the Centre has not given an explanation for why the 31 films were not cleared.

The 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK) is facing uncertainty regarding the screening of 31 films. The hurdle comes after the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting denied granting an exemption from certification requirements. The festival is set to happen in Thiruvananthapuram from September 25 to 30. Kerala Minister reveals no explanation from Centre According to Kerala Tourism, Culture and Cinema Minister P C Vishnunadh, the Centre has not given an explanation for why the 31 films were not cleared, despite the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy following the required procedure. Also Read: Naga film Angh wins top jury award at TIFF 2026, secures direct entry to Oscar "They (Centre) had asked for detailed synopses for several of these films, which we sent the next day. Around 31 films have not been granted permission for screening. Neither has the ministry stated reasons for not granting permission nor has it said that it is denying permission. It has only sent us the list of films that have been granted permission," the minister said in the official statement, as quoted by HT. Vishnunadh has called on the Union ministry to review the decision. “Denying permission to screen films that have gone through such a rigorous selection process amounts to curbing the curatorial freedom of film festivals. Also Read: Mysaa teaser: Rashmika Mandanna flaunts raw, rugged avatar in action-packed film Documentaries and short films are vital art forms that capture diverse social realities and perspectives. The essence of an international film festival lies in making space for differing ideas, questions and discussions. Audiences should have the freedom to watch films and form, express and critique their own views independently,” he said. What's the matter? The Chalachitra Academy had approached the Union ministry with a list of 347 films, seeking exemption from certification so they could be screened at the festival. The initial submission contained summaries of the films' themes. After a request from the ministry, detailed synopses and screeners for 40 films were later submitted. Also Read: Jailer 2: Vidya Balan joins Rajinikanth's upcoming film as Kantha | Watch Of these, 31 films have not received the required permission. The affected titles include 18 films from the festival's official selection, nine from the International Non-Fiction section, three from the Festival Winners section and one from the Nepal Package. A Malayalam film is also awaiting clearance. Also Read: New OTT releases this week (September 21-27, 2026): 5 new titles coming to OTT According to reports, the films named in reports include Parliament Street, Sanitised Republic: Cast(e) and Contracts, Globe, Memories of a Window, Birds of War, Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk and Our Land. The festival is scheduled to begin in Thiruvananthapuram on September 25 and continue until September 30.

IDSFFK is facing an issue over the screening of 31 films. According to &nbsp;Kerala Tourism, Culture and Cinema Minister P C Vishnunadh, the Centre has not given an explanation for why the 31 films were not cleared.

IDSFFK 2026: 31 films await screening clearance, Kerala minister asks for Centre’s response

Janhvi Kapoor to Ananya Panday, these actresses have delivered fashion moments that feel straight out of a fairytale. Read on to know more.


Janhvi Kapoor to Ananya Panday, these actresses have delivered fashion moments that feel straight out of a fairy tale. Read on to know more. &nbsp;

Ananya Panday to Sharvari: 5 actresses serving major princess vibes

Indian activist-lawyer Prashant Bhushan has turned the nation’s focus on how former bureaucrats join plum posts including as board directors in major conglomorates like Reliance Industries and Adani group, raising questions about the principles of safe distance between industry and government, as also the ethics of such ‘revolving doors’ in their careers. Some of these former officials had served in regulatory roles in agencies like Central Vigilance Commission and Comptroller and Auditor General of India, while others were with Public Sector Units, Bhushan pointed out.In an X post that sparked major online debate, Bhushan wrote:&nbsp;“Former, CVC chief, CAG chief, Bank chiefs, PSU chiefs, even Supreme Court judge joined Reliance, the company that they should have dealt with in some capacity as Regulators, after retirement. Shouldn’t there be a ban on such post retirement jobs which create conflicts of interest while in position?”Along with the post, Bushan shared some of the alleged names. But a larger examination revealed that his list is not exhaustive. The following are some of the top ex-offficials and regularory body chiefs who joined these industry majors, mostly post-retirement. While this is collected from publicly available information, it may not be the full picture of the ‘revolving doors’.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former, CVC chief, CAG chief, Bank chiefs, PSU chiefs, even Supreme Court judge joined Reliance, the company that they should have dealt with in some capacity as Regulators, after retirement. Shouldn’t there be a ban on such post retirement jobs which create conflicts of interest… <a href="https://t.co/EE0C2O0tA5">pic.twitter.com/EE0C2O0tA5</a>&mdash; Prashant Bhushan (@pbhushan1) <a href="https://x.com/pbhushan1/status/2100778991468863698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Former officials and regulatory body chiefs who joined Reliance and Adani groups</h2>The below list is a compilation from Prashant Bhushan’s post as well as other publicly available information:<h3>Reliance group</h3><ol><li>Arundhati Bhattacharya, the chairman of the State Bank of India until 2017, was appointed an independent director on the Reliance Industries board in October 2018.</li><li>K. V. Chowdary, a former chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes who went on to serve as Central Vigilance Commissioner until June 2019, joined the Reliance Industries board as an independent director four months after retiring as CVC.</li><li>Sarthak Behuria, who chaired state-run Bharat Petroleum&nbsp; Coroporation Limited and later Indian Oil Corporation before retiring in 2010, joined Reliance as a senior adviser in February 2020.</li><li>Sanjiv Singh, chairman of Indian Oil Corporation until June 2020, joined Reliance Industries as group president, two months after retirement.</li><li>Prabhat Singh, managing director and chief executive of Petronet LNG and earlier director of marketing at GAIL, superannuated in September 2020 and joined the business leadership team of India Gas Solutions, the Reliance BP joint venture.</li><li>D. Sengupta, a former chairman of the General Insurance Corporation of India, joined the board of Reliance General Insurance in 2005.</li><li>A. K. Purwar, chairman and managing director of the State Bank of India until 2006, was appointed an additional director of Reliance Communications in July 2007.</li><li>Justice Krishna Murari, who retired as a judge of the Supreme Court of India in July 2023, was appointed to Reliance-linked Vantara's independent governing council in September 2026.</li><li>Rajiv Mehrishi, a 1978 batch IAS officer who served as Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) until 2020, was appointed a director on the Jio Financial Services board in July 2023.</li><li>M. K. Jain, who stepped down as deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India in June 2023, joined Reliance Industries as an adviser in March 2025.</li><li>K. V. Kamath, the former chief of ICICI Bank and a veteran banker who has served on regulatory committees, is chairman of Jio Financial Services.</li></ol><h3>Adani group</h3><ol><li>V. Subramanian, a 1971 batch IAS officer of the West Bengal cadre who served as secretary for new and renewable energy before leaving government around 2008, became an independent director of Adani Enterprises in 2016 and stepped down in August 2026.</li><li>Vijaylaxmi Joshi, a 1980 batch IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre who served as secretary for panchayati raj, became an independent director of Adani Enterprises in 2016.</li><li>Narendra Mairpady, chairman and managing director of Indian Overseas Bank from 2010 to 2014 and earlier an executive director at Bank of India, left that post in 2014 and served as an independent director of Adani Enterprises until November 2023.</li><li>M. V. Bhanumathi, a 1987 batch IRS officer who was director general of income tax investigation in Mumbai until May 2022, became an independent director of Adani Ports in February 2024.</li><li>Niraj Bansal, an IRS officer who served as commissioner of income tax and earlier as chairman of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust, took voluntary retirement in 2021, joined the Adani group in 2022 and became chief executive of the ports business at APSEZ in June 2026.</li><li>P. K. Pujari, a 1981 batch IAS officer who was power secretary and later chairman of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission until 2017, became an independent director of Adani Ports in August 2024.</li><li>Rajkumar Beniwal, a 2004 batch IAS officer and vice chairman and chief executive of the state-run Gujarat Maritime Board, was that board's nominee director on Adani Ports from 2023 until he resigned in January 2026.</li><li>G. K. Pillai, a former Union home secretary, earlier served as an independent director of Adani Ports.</li><li>Meera Shankar, an Indian Foreign Service officer and former ambassador to the United States and Germany, was an independent director of Adani Energy Solutions from 2015 until June 2025.</li><li>K. Jairaj, a 1976 batch IAS officer who held senior energy and urban administration roles in Karnataka, was an independent director of Adani Energy Solutions from 2015 until June 2025.</li><li>Chandra Iyengar, a 1973 batch IAS officer who was additional chief secretary for home in Maharashtra and chaired the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission, served as an independent director of Adani Total Gas from 2018 to 2023, of Adani Power from 2022 to 2025 and of Adani Energy Solutions in 2025.</li><li>Dr Amiya Chandra, a 1989 batch Indian Trade Service officer who worked in the commerce and textiles ministries and the Prime Minister's Office and served as additional director general of foreign trade, became an independent director of Adani Energy Solutions in 2025 and resigned in July 2025.</li><li>Deepak Amitabh, a 1984 batch IRS officer of the income tax cadre who was chairman and managing director of PTC India until November 2021, became chief executive of energy sales at Adani Power and later an adviser for business development in 2023.</li><li>ICP Keshri, a 1988 batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, is an adviser on infrastructure and energy to the Adani group.</li><li>Shashi Shanker, a former chairman and managing director of ONGC, became an independent director of Adani Total Gas in May 2022.</li><li>Sushil Kumar Roongta, a former chairman of SAIL who also chaired International Coal Ventures Limited, served as an independent director of Adani Power and retired in November 2025.</li><li>Upendra Kumar Sinha, an IAS officer who chaired the Securities and Exchange Board of India from 2011 to 2017, was appointed independent director and chairman of Adani-owned NDTV in a non-executive capacity in March 2023.</li><li>Dinesh Kumar Mittal, a 1977 batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre who served as secretary for financial services and as India's chief negotiator at the World Trade Organization, became a non-executive independent director of NDTV in June 2023.</li><li>Sunil Kumar, a 1979 batch IAS officer who was chief secretary of Chhattisgarh from 2012 to 2014, was appointed an additional non-executive independent director of NDTV in December 2022 and resigned in March 2023.&nbsp;</li><li>Aman Kumar Singh, a former IRS officer who served as principal secretary to Chhattisgarh chief minister Raman Singh until November 2022, became a non-executive director of NDTV in December 2022, resigned in April 2023 and faces a Chhattisgarh Economic Offences Wing probe.</li><li>Raminder Singh Gujral is a 1976 batch IAS officer of the Haryana cadre who was Union finance secretary and earlier secretary for revenue, expenditure and road transport as well as chairman of NHAI and director general of foreign trade. After leaving government, he served as an independent director of Adani Power from 2015 to 2022, independent director of Adani Green Energy since 2020 and is reported to have been associated with Reliance's board as well.</li></ol>

Former bureaucrats joining Reliance and Adani boards has sparked debate over post-retirement jobs, regulatory conflicts and the revolving door between government and industry in India. 

Indian activist-lawyer Prashant Bhushan has turned the nation’s focus on how former bureaucrats join plum posts including as board directors in major conglomorates like Reliance Industries and Adani group, raising questions about the principles of safe distance between industry and government, as also the ethics of such ‘revolving doors’ in their careers. Some of these former officials had served in regulatory roles in agencies like Central Vigilance Commission and Comptroller and Auditor General of India, while others were with Public Sector Units, Bhushan pointed out. In an X post that sparked major online debate, Bhushan wrote: “Former, CVC chief, CAG chief, Bank chiefs, PSU chiefs, even Supreme Court judge joined Reliance, the company that they should have dealt with in some capacity as Regulators, after retirement. Shouldn’t there be a ban on such post retirement jobs which create conflicts of interest while in position?” Along with the post, Bushan shared some of the alleged names. But a larger examination revealed that his list is not exhaustive. The following are some of the top ex-offficials and regularory body chiefs who joined these industry majors, mostly post-retirement. While this is collected from publicly available information, it may not be the full picture of the ‘revolving doors’.

Former bureaucrats joining Reliance and Adani boards has sparked debate over post-retirement jobs, regulatory conflicts and the revolving door between government and industry in India.&nbsp;

Indian activist-lawyer Prashant Bhushan's post brings focus on ‘conflict of interest’ appointments of ex-govt officials at Reliance, Adani groups

Actor Rasika Dugal recently appeared on Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi’s Double Date with her husband, actor Mukul Chadda, for a candid conversation that touched upon their professional journeys, struggles, marriage, college days and some of the more personal chapters of their lives. During the episode, Neha Dhupia reflected on Rasika’s distinctive body of work and told her, “Rasika, you have become a genre and it is amazing.”&nbsp;The conversation also saw Rasika open up about the point in her career when she felt she had finally found her place in the industry. When Neha asked her when she truly felt, “This is it, I have come for this and maine apni jagah bana li hai,” Rasika looked back at the period when her work started becoming more consistent.&nbsp;Talking about that phase, Rasika said, “From the time work became more continuous, it was between 2016-17. I moved from FTII in 2006, so it was a good 10 years later. There was always stuff in between to encourage me and keep me alive, but that was not so known as the work I did after 2016”&nbsp;Rasika also recalled some of the projects that came before this more consistent phase, including films such as Qissa and Kshay, which gave her the opportunity to work with some of the finest talent in the industry. However, she explained that the period after 2016 brought a significant shift, with several projects coming her way back-to-back.&nbsp;“It was after 2016 that work like Manto, Mirzapur and Delhi Crime, and a couple of other works, started happening back to back. And largely because streaming platforms started coming out. Then I felt something like that It was a movement,” she shared.&nbsp;Rasika’s journey has seen her move across films, series and varied characters, gradually becoming known for choosing diverse and layered roles. Her work in projects such as Manto, Mirzapur and Delhi Crime further established her as an actor capable of moving seamlessly between different worlds and characters. It is this distinctive body of work that prompted Neha to describe Rasika as having become a “genre” of her own.&nbsp;Beyond her professional journey, the episode also offered a glimpse into Rasika and Mukul’s relationship and their life together. The couple spoke candidly about their struggles, their college days and their experiences through different phases of their relationship. In one of the lighter and more heartwarming moments of the episode, Rasika and Mukul also adopted a pet, adding a personal and unexpected dimension to their double date.&nbsp;The episode brought together the professional and personal sides of Rasika Dugal, from reflecting on the decade-long journey after FTII to finding a more consistent space for herself in the industry, and from discussing the evolution of her work to sharing everyday moments with Mukul. Their conversation on Double Date offered an honest glimpse into the journey behind the actor audiences have come to recognise today.

Rasika Dugal, who is currently basking in the success of Mirzapur: The Film, has revealed that stardom came to her long after she joined the film industry. 

Actor Rasika Dugal recently appeared on Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi’s Double Date with her husband, actor Mukul Chadda, for a candid conversation that touched upon their professional journeys, struggles, marriage, college days and some of the more personal chapters of their lives. During the episode, Neha Dhupia reflected on Rasika’s distinctive body of work and told her, “Rasika, you have become a genre and it is amazing.” The conversation also saw Rasika open up about the point in her career when she felt she had finally found her place in the industry. When Neha asked her when she truly felt, “This is it, I have come for this and maine apni jagah bana li hai,” Rasika looked back at the period when her work started becoming more consistent. Talking about that phase, Rasika said, “From the time work became more continuous, it was between 2016-17. I moved from FTII in 2006, so it was a good 10 years later. There was always stuff in between to encourage me and keep me alive, but that was not so known as the work I did after 2016” Rasika also recalled some of the projects that came before this more consistent phase, including films such as Qissa and Kshay, which gave her the opportunity to work with some of the finest talent in the industry. However, she explained that the period after 2016 brought a significant shift, with several projects coming her way back-to-back. “It was after 2016 that work like Manto, Mirzapur and Delhi Crime, and a couple of other works, started happening back to back. And largely because streaming platforms started coming out. Then I felt something like that It was a movement,” she shared. Rasika’s journey has seen her move across films, series and varied characters, gradually becoming known for choosing diverse and layered roles. Her work in projects such as Manto, Mirzapur and Delhi Crime further established her as an actor capable of moving seamlessly between different worlds and characters. It is this distinctive body of work that prompted Neha to describe Rasika as having become a “genre” of her own. Beyond her professional journey, the episode also offered a glimpse into Rasika and Mukul’s relationship and their life together. The couple spoke candidly about their struggles, their college days and their experiences through different phases of their relationship. In one of the lighter and more heartwarming moments of the episode, Rasika and Mukul also adopted a pet, adding a personal and unexpected dimension to their double date. The episode brought together the professional and personal sides of Rasika Dugal, from reflecting on the decade-long journey after FTII to finding a more consistent space for herself in the industry, and from discussing the evolution of her work to sharing everyday moments with Mukul. Their conversation on Double Date offered an honest glimpse into the journey behind the actor audiences have come to recognise today.

Rasika Dugal, who is currently basking in the success of Mirzapur: The Movie, has revealed that stardom came to her long after she joined the film industry.&nbsp;

'It took a decade': Rasika Dugal reflects on her breakthrough in Bollywood after 2016

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (‘Z’), leading technology company that offers world-class content across platforms, has secured the approval of its shareholders to re-appoint five Board of Directors, at the company’s 44th Annual General Meeting (AGM) conducted on Thursday (September 17). The strong support garnered from the shareholders, reaffirms their confidence in the board's capabilities to further strengthen the company’s governance standards, strategically guide the management team for the future and generate higher value for all stakeholders.&nbsp;&nbsp;The shareholders approved the re-appointment of Ms. Deepu Bansal, Mr. Uttam Prakash Agarwal, Mr. P.V. Ramana Murthy and Mr. Shishir Babubhai Desai as independent directors, and Mr. Saurav Adhikari as non-executive director with requisite majority. The members of the board collectively harbor deep expertise and knowledge across finance, technology, organizational development, risk management, governance, operations, strategy and business transformation, that will enable the company to further enhance its competitive positioning in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. Over the last financial year, the board has taken significant efforts in line with the company’s growth aspirations to build robust internal processes that enhance governance frameworks, refine oversight mechanisms, drive greater accountability and provide strategic guidance to the management team that enabled it to garner a higher share in the attention economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leveraging the rich and diverse experience of each member, the board has played a pivotal role in enabling the company to capitalize on value-accretive opportunities. Through regular engagement with the management team, the board has also identified the need to enhance the company’s financial foundation and guide the strategic capital allocation steps to ensure prudent oversight.&nbsp;&nbsp;The re-appointment of the board members preserves the continuity of experience and institutional knowledge, while reinforcing the board’s commitment to create long-term value for all stakeholders. Commenting on the trust reposed by the shareholders in the Board, R. Gopalan, Chairman, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, “On behalf of my fellow board members, I would like to express immense gratitude to all the esteemed shareholders for reposing continued trust and confidence in our efforts to strengthen the company’s foundation for the future. Each of the board members brings in vast experience across domains, enabling us to consistently deliver holistic guidance to the management team and develop effective governance mechanisms across all aspects. The re-appointment of the directors will further strengthen our collective ability to offer strategic oversight as we work alongside the management team in accelerating the company's ambitions and enhancing value for all stakeholders."&nbsp;&nbsp;At the company’s Extraordinary General Meeting held in July 2026, the shareholders had approved the infusion of additional growth capital, enabling the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities and build a robust foundation for the future. The consistent support received from the shareholders, ensures that the board and management team remain firmly committed to strengthen the company’s future growth trajectory and drive higher value generation for all stakeholders.

Zee Entertainment shareholders approve the reappointment of five directors at the 44th AGM, including four independent directors and one non-executive director

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (‘Z’), leading technology company that offers world-class content across platforms, has secured the approval of its shareholders to re-appoint five Board of Directors, at the company’s 44th Annual General Meeting (AGM) conducted on Thursday (September 17). The strong support garnered from the shareholders, reaffirms their confidence in the board's capabilities to further strengthen the company’s governance standards, strategically guide the management team for the future and generate higher value for all stakeholders. The shareholders approved the re-appointment of Ms. Deepu Bansal, Mr. Uttam Prakash Agarwal, Mr. P.V. Ramana Murthy and Mr. Shishir Babubhai Desai as independent directors, and Mr. Saurav Adhikari as non-executive director with requisite majority. The members of the board collectively harbor deep expertise and knowledge across finance, technology, organizational development, risk management, governance, operations, strategy and business transformation, that will enable the company to further enhance its competitive positioning in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. Over the last financial year, the board has taken significant efforts in line with the company’s growth aspirations to build robust internal processes that enhance governance frameworks, refine oversight mechanisms, drive greater accountability and provide strategic guidance to the management team that enabled it to garner a higher share in the attention economy. Leveraging the rich and diverse experience of each member, the board has played a pivotal role in enabling the company to capitalize on value-accretive opportunities. Through regular engagement with the management team, the board has also identified the need to enhance the company’s financial foundation and guide the strategic capital allocation steps to ensure prudent oversight. The re-appointment of the board members preserves the continuity of experience and institutional knowledge, while reinforcing the board’s commitment to create long-term value for all stakeholders. Commenting on the trust reposed by the shareholders in the Board, R. Gopalan, Chairman, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, “On behalf of my fellow board members, I would like to express immense gratitude to all the esteemed shareholders for reposing continued trust and confidence in our efforts to strengthen the company’s foundation for the future. Each of the board members brings in vast experience across domains, enabling us to consistently deliver holistic guidance to the management team and develop effective governance mechanisms across all aspects. The re-appointment of the directors will further strengthen our collective ability to offer strategic oversight as we work alongside the management team in accelerating the company's ambitions and enhancing value for all stakeholders." At the company’s Extraordinary General Meeting held in July 2026, the shareholders had approved the infusion of additional growth capital, enabling the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities and build a robust foundation for the future. The consistent support received from the shareholders, ensures that the board and management team remain firmly committed to strengthen the company’s future growth trajectory and drive higher value generation for all stakeholders.

Zee Entertainment shareholders approved the reappointment of five directors at its 44th AGM, strengthening board continuity and governance

Zee Entertainment shareholders approve reappointment of five board directors

On the occasion of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday on September 17, tributes and well-wishes pour in from prominent figures across India and around the globe. President Droupadi Murmu, Union Ministers, and leaders across the political spectrum, including Opposition leaders, extend warm greetings, praising his dedication to public service. Many leaders pray for his health and long life, recognising his pivotal role in steering crucial socio-economic reforms and infrastructure initiatives.&nbsp;Beyond political circles, industrialists, sports personalities, cultural icons, and millions of citizens share heartfelt messages across digital platforms. These widespread greetings reflect PM Modi’s deep political impact and high standing both within India and on the world stage.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-at-semicon-india-2026-india-s-semiconductor-ecosystem-expanding-rapidly-vishwakarma-jayanti-1789625427107">PM Modi spells out India's big semiconductor vision at SEMICON India</a>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wished Prime Minister Modi a happy birthday and spoke of a deep “bond” &nbsp;between the two nations.“Happy birthday to my friend @narendramodi, to whom I wish health, energy, and success.” “Italy and India continue to strengthen their deep bond of friendship, building together a future of cooperation and prosperity for our Nations,” PM Meloni tweeted.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Buon compleanno al mio amico <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, a cui auguro salute, energia e successo. Italia e India continuano a rafforzare il loro profondo legame di amicizia, costruendo insieme un futuro di cooperazione e prosperità per le nostre Nazioni.&mdash; Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://x.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/2100546993336545776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Indian President Droupadi Murmu tweeted, "Over the past 25 years, during your tenure as Chief Minister and Prime Minister, you have established many new benchmarks of good governance and imparted unprecedented momentum and a new direction to inclusive development.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">प्रधानमंत्री श्री <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> जी को जन्मदिन की हार्दिक बधाई और शुभकामनाएं। विगत 25 वर्षों में मुख्यमंत्री और प्रधानमंत्री के कार्यकाल में आपने सुशासन के अनेक नए प्रतिमान स्थापित किए हैं तथा समावेशी विकास को अभूतपूर्व गति एवं नई दिशा प्रदान की है। सांस्कृतिक गौरव की भावना के साथ…&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://x.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/2100411271627800682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Vice President CP Radhakrishanan wrote, “Heartiest birthday greetings to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shriman Narendra Modi Ji. Under your steadfast and visionary leadership, Bharat is shining as a bright spot in the world and among the fastest-growing major economies. Over 25 crore Indians have come out of extreme poverty. A transformative digital revolution has empowered millions, and every sector-from space, technology, and healthcare to infrastructure and manufacturing has witnessed remarkable growth.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Heartiest birthday greetings to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shriman Narendra Modi Ji. Under your steadfast and visionary leadership, Bharat is shining as a bright spot in the world and among the fastest-growing major economies. Over 25 crore Indians have come out of extreme poverty.…&mdash; Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) <a href="https://x.com/VPIndia/status/2100381891702714441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Union Minister Piyush Goyal also extended his wishes.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi extended his best wishes to PM Modi.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Happy birthday to PM Narendra Modi ji. Wishing you good health and a long life.&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2100441372935569730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I join millions of my fellow citizens in felicitating India’s popular and visionary Prime Minister Modi, on his 76th birthday. His journey spanning across 25 glorious years in the service of the nation have ushered an era of transformational change in the lives of the people through visionary reforms, policies and schemes anchored in the philosophy of Sarvodaya Through Antyodaya,” Union Minister Hardeep Puri tweeted.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I join millions of my fellow citizens in felicitating India’s popular and visionary Prime Minister, Shri <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji, on his 76th birthday. His journey spanning across 25 glorious years in the service of the nation have ushered an era of transformational change in the lives… <a href="https://t.co/dQMqA3ZH8M">pic.twitter.com/dQMqA3ZH8M</a>&mdash; Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://x.com/HardeepSPuri/status/2100369050031530234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I’ve always loved writing. Sometimes, it’s the easiest way to say what you feel. This year, Modi ji, I wanted your birthday tribute to come straight from the heart,” PV Sindhu tweeted

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’ve always loved writing. Sometimes, it’s the easiest way to say what you feel. This year, Modi ji, I wanted your birthday tribute to come straight from the heart. ❤️ I’ve seen changes in Indian sport I could barely have imagined growing up. The support, the opportunities and… <a href="https://t.co/GBSMDmJQKb">pic.twitter.com/GBSMDmJQKb</a>&mdash; PV Sindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://x.com/Pvsindhu1/status/2100447825050137081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Tejasvi Surya tweeted, “Wishing our beloved Prime Minister Modi a very happy birthday. Leadership is a heavy responsibility. Every single day, it tests your patience, your conviction, your character and your capacity to keep going through challenges and setbacks.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wishing our beloved Prime Minister Shri <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji a very happy birthday. Leadership is a heavy responsibility. Every single day, it tests your patience, your conviction, your character and your capacity to keep going through challenges and setbacks. To carry that…&mdash; Tejasvi Surya (@Tejasvi_Surya) <a href="https://x.com/Tejasvi_Surya/status/2100405444913312163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik created a 25-foot sand art installation using 2,500 earthen lamps (diyas) on Puri Beach to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 76th birthday.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Puri, Odisha | Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik created a 25-foot sand art installation using 2,500 earthen lamps (diyas) on Puri Beach to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s 76th birthday. He says, &quot;We have created a 25-foot sand art installation to mark Prime Minister… <a href="https://t.co/UWeFa64V1O">pic.twitter.com/UWeFa64V1O</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2100395707555557756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

BJP Gujarat has gotten creative with their wish and posted a video of the PM in different looks.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">India&#39;s pride, the world&#39;s icon. Happy Birthday Modi Ji 🎂<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/HappyBdayPMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBdayPMModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/EbLQAjOINK">pic.twitter.com/EbLQAjOINK</a>&mdash; BJP Gujarat (@BJP4Gujarat) <a href="https://x.com/BJP4Gujarat/status/2100301002448728493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I extend my heartfelt birthday wishes to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Thiru. Narendra Modi avargal, who leads with dedication towards building a strong India,” Tamil Nadu CM Vijay wishes PM Modi.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">வலிமையான இந்தியாவை உருவாக்கும் நோக்கில் அர்ப்பணிப்புடன் செயல்பட்டு வரும் மாண்புமிகு இந்தியப் பிரதமர் திரு.நரேந்திர மோடி அவர்களுக்கு எனது மனமார்ந்த பிறந்தநாள் வாழ்த்துகளைத் தெரிவித்துக் கொள்கிறேன். தாங்கள் நல்ல உடல்நலத்துடனும், நீண்ட ஆயுளுடனும் நீடுழி வாழ உளமார வாழ்த்துகிறேன். I… <a href="https://t.co/2stjwXq2JC">pic.twitter.com/2stjwXq2JC</a>&mdash; CMOTamilNadu (@CMOTamilnadu) <a href="https://x.com/CMOTamilnadu/status/2100431356882772451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, Actor Mukesh Rishi says, “It brings immense joy. For so many years, you have been working continuously—first for the state and now for the country…”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Mumbai, Maharashtra: On Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s birthday, Actor Mukesh Rishi says, &quot;It brings immense joy. For so many years, you have been working continuously—first for the state and now for the country. As your birthday arrives, Modi Ji, I extend my heartfelt birthday… <a href="https://t.co/iuJvvCc1Ar">pic.twitter.com/iuJvvCc1Ar</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://x.com/ians_india/status/2100367813257085437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Prominent leaders across the political spectrum, including President Droupadi Murmu and Opposition figures, extend warm birthday wishes to PM Narendra Modi, praising his leadership and socio-economic reforms.

On the occasion of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday on September 17, tributes and well-wishes pour in from prominent figures across India and around the globe. President Droupadi Murmu, Union Ministers, and leaders across the political spectrum, including Opposition leaders, extend warm greetings, praising his dedication to public service. Many leaders pray for his health and long life, recognising his pivotal role in steering crucial socio-economic reforms and infrastructure initiatives. Beyond political circles, industrialists, sports personalities, cultural icons, and millions of citizens share heartfelt messages across digital platforms. These widespread greetings reflect PM Modi’s deep political impact and high standing both within India and on the world stage. Also read: PM Modi spells out India's big semiconductor vision at SEMICON India Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wished Prime Minister Modi a happy birthday and spoke of a deep “bond” between the two nations. “Happy birthday to my friend @narendramodi, to whom I wish health, energy, and success.” “Italy and India continue to strengthen their deep bond of friendship, building together a future of cooperation and prosperity for our Nations,” PM Meloni tweeted.

Prominent leaders across the political spectrum, including President Droupadi Murmu and Opposition figures, extend warm birthday wishes to PM Narendra Modi, praising his leadership and socio-economic reforms.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday: Italian PM Meloni sends birthday wishes

Some 72 hours after one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in India, the BRICS summit’s focus on people and mobility offers a useful way to examine what makes international cooperation work in practice. The BRICS New Delhi Declaration places people-to-people cooperation among the bloc’s three central pillars, alongside political and security cooperation and economic and financial cooperation. One of the key focus areas was people and mobility. The message was clear: connectivity is not only about roads, ports, railways and digital networks. It is also about whether students, tourists, business travellers, researchers and families can move across borders with greater clarity and confidence.In 2023, nearly 8 million Indians travelled to BRICS countries, while around 414,000 visitors from BRICS nations came to India. Those figures point to a significant imbalance, but they also underline the scale of the opportunity. As trade, education, tourism and investment expand across the bloc, the movement of people will become an increasingly important part of the BRICS story.Against this backdrop, one of the most closely watched developments was the gradual resumption of direct air services between India and China after a six-year interruption. China Southern Airlines has re-started regular passenger flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi, marking the return of the carrier’s India service. Direct services have also returned or begun on routes linking Indian and Chinese cities, including New Delhi and Shanghai, Kolkata and Kunming, and Kolkata and Shanghai.&nbsp;Air routes are a visible sign of a diplomatic thaw. But they are also economic infrastructure. For BRICS, the larger question is whether this momentum can be extended across the bloc through better air connectivity, interoperable digital systems and more predictable visa arrangements.<h2>From transport link to trusted systems</h2>One of the prominent collaborators of BRICS governments in the mobility ecosystem is VFS Global. VFS has partnered with some of the most critical BRICS nations like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia.&nbsp;The company was set up in 2001 on a single premise: a government could outsource the queue without outsourcing the decision. Twenty-five years on, that premise underpins a large share of the world's travel. VFS Global currently serves 71 client governments and operates more than 4,200 application centres across 169 countries.&nbsp;<h2>The trustworthy systems that run mobility</h2>Supporting all of it is an operational network of appointment scheduling, online payment collection, contact-center interactions, translation services, courier logistics, document digitization and data management. More than 240 million biometric enrolments have been completed since 2007. The company is investing in digital platforms, artificial intelligence and data-led technologies to support governments in areas such as predictive analytics, secure identity management and fraud detection.VFS Global handles the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the process. Appointment availability, documentation requirements, processing timelines and the final visa decision remain entirely with the government concerned. The administrative work is completed in advance so that the visa officer spends more time on assessment and less on paperwork.That separation is what makes the model portable across very different political systems. A government that wants tighter scrutiny can have it. <img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260916/image-1789553266303.JPG?rect=(0,378,5964,4473)" alt="Image Element"><h2>More partnerships in the offing</h2>Much of the world's visa, passport and identity paperwork is still processed in-house. Reliable estimates of how much are difficult to pin down, in part because definitions of the market vary widely. VFS Global's view is that considerable potential remains for governments to outsource a greater share of administrative visa, passport, identity and citizen services to specialist providers.“We are focusing on mobility and making sure trade improves because when we increase mobility and people travel, trade automatically improves,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global.That is the connection BRICS leaders spent two days describing in other languages. Trade corridors are also travel corridors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The BRICS grouping's focus on people and mobility highlights how air connectivity, visa systems and trusted infrastructure can support tourism, trade, investment and stronger cross-border cooperation.

Some 72 hours after one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in India, the BRICS summit’s focus on people and mobility offers a useful way to examine what makes international cooperation work in practice. The BRICS New Delhi Declaration places people-to-people cooperation among the bloc’s three central pillars, alongside political and security cooperation and economic and financial cooperation. One of the key focus areas was people and mobility. The message was clear: connectivity is not only about roads, ports, railways and digital networks. It is also about whether students, tourists, business travellers, researchers and families can move across borders with greater clarity and confidence. In 2023, nearly 8 million Indians travelled to BRICS countries, while around 414,000 visitors from BRICS nations came to India. Those figures point to a significant imbalance, but they also underline the scale of the opportunity. As trade, education, tourism and investment expand across the bloc, the movement of people will become an increasingly important part of the BRICS story. Against this backdrop, one of the most closely watched developments was the gradual resumption of direct air services between India and China after a six-year interruption. China Southern Airlines has re-started regular passenger flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi, marking the return of the carrier’s India service. Direct services have also returned or begun on routes linking Indian and Chinese cities, including New Delhi and Shanghai, Kolkata and Kunming, and Kolkata and Shanghai. Air routes are a visible sign of a diplomatic thaw. But they are also economic infrastructure. For BRICS, the larger question is whether this momentum can be extended across the bloc through better air connectivity, interoperable digital systems and more predictable visa arrangements. From transport link to trusted systems One of the prominent collaborators of BRICS governments in the mobility ecosystem is VFS Global. VFS has partnered with some of the most critical BRICS nations like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia. The company was set up in 2001 on a single premise: a government could outsource the queue without outsourcing the decision. Twenty-five years on, that premise underpins a large share of the world's travel. VFS Global currently serves 71 client governments and operates more than 4,200 application centres across 169 countries. The trustworthy systems that run mobility Supporting all of it is an operational network of appointment scheduling, online payment collection, contact-center interactions, translation services, courier logistics, document digitization and data management. More than 240 million biometric enrolments have been completed since 2007. The company is investing in digital platforms, artificial intelligence and data-led technologies to support governments in areas such as predictive analytics, secure identity management and fraud detection. VFS Global handles the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the process. Appointment availability, documentation requirements, processing timelines and the final visa decision remain entirely with the government concerned. The administrative work is completed in advance so that the visa officer spends more time on assessment and less on paperwork. That separation is what makes the model portable across very different political systems. A government that wants tighter scrutiny can have it. More partnerships in the offing Much of the world's visa, passport and identity paperwork is still processed in-house. Reliable estimates of how much are difficult to pin down, in part because definitions of the market vary widely. VFS Global's view is that considerable potential remains for governments to outsource a greater share of administrative visa, passport, identity and citizen services to specialist providers. “We are focusing on mobility and making sure trade improves because when we increase mobility and people travel, trade automatically improves,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global. That is the connection BRICS leaders spent two days describing in other languages. Trade corridors are also travel corridors.

The BRICS grouping's focus on people and mobility highlights how air connectivity, visa systems and trusted infrastructure can support tourism, trade, investment and stronger cross-border cooperation.

People’s connectivity core of BRICS agenda at New Delhi

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. Saudi Arabia has accused the Houthis of attempting to target Mecca with a drone, saying its air defences intercepted the UAV before it entered restricted airspace near Islam’s holiest city. The Houthis have denied targeting Mecca.In the United States, the House has advanced a Russia sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries importing Russian oil, potentially affecting major buyers such as India and China. Meanwhile, AI leaders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, have spoken publicly about growing concerns over artificial intelligence safety, regulation and the pace of development.In California, NBC’s Colleen Williams confirmed that NewsChopper 4 was the helicopter that crashed in Los Angeles, killing three people. The incident occurred near the Chatsworth crash site where an SUV previously ploughed into a Metro bus, killing at least two people.In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has issued a nationwide public health alert over two unauthorised Pakistan-made skin-whitening products, Goree Beauty Cream and Chandni Whitening Cream. Meanwhile, discussions continue over merchant discount rates and fees for large merchant payments on UPI, while transactions up to ₹2,000 remain free.In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s high-profile official visit to the United Kingdom has sparked political debate back home, with attention focused on the visit and its wider political implications

he European Union plans to ban social media use for children under 13 and allow limited, supervised access for those aged 13 to 15, under new plans announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Sept 16)."It is time for Europe to act," von der Leyen said during her annual address to the European Parliament. She also warned that the EU must make its own rules rather than allow big technology companies to decide them.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-social-media-under-13-supervised-access-till-15-eu-unveils-new-online-safety-rules-for-children-1789568917026">Read More…</a>&nbsp;

No social media under 13, supervised access till 15: EU unveils new online safety rules for children

A woman trying to stop a car was dragged on its bonnet by her alleged ‘boyfriend’ after an argument and then run over near the Janeshwar Mishra Park in Lucknow’s upscale locality of Gomtinagar Extension on Wednesday morning.The accused, identified as Shahnawaz, has been arrested and the car seized, said police.The woman, identified as Anamika, had confronted Shahnawaz after allegedly seeing him with another woman and learning that he had concealed his true identity from her.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-man-drags-girlfriend-on-car-s-bonnet-in-lucknow-after-fight-runs-her-over-arrested-1789567470691">Read More…</a>

Video: Man drags girlfriend on car’s bonnet in Lucknow after fight, runs her over; arrested

India on Wednesday rejected the so-called Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission in strong words, saying it has no legal basis, and reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India. India said there is no boundary between Pakistan and China, and hence such a joint commission has no legal basis. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India’s position on the matter remains “clear and consistent” and described the commission as having no legal basis.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-s-no-pak-china-boundary-india-rejects-so-called-boundary-joint-commission-tells-islamabad-to-stop-theatrics-1789573593070">Read More…</a>

‘There’s no Pak-China boundary’: India rejects ‘so-called’ boundary joint commission, tells Islamabad to stop ‘theatrics’

The European Union plans to ban social media use for children under 13 and allow limited, supervised access for those aged 13 to 15, under new plans announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Sept 16).<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-social-media-under-13-supervised-access-till-15-eu-unveils-new-online-safety-rules-for-children-1789568917026">Read more.</a>

Sweden’s foreign ministry on Wednesday (Sep 16) said that it had expelled an Iranian embassy employee and summoned the country’s ambassador, saying that their activity was incompatible with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The move was taken as Stockholm accused Tehran of making threats against Jewish and Israeli interests in Sweden.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-expels-iranian-embassy-official-what-triggered-the-diplomatic-shock-1789571097350">Read more.</a>

Sweden expels Iranian embassy official – What triggered the diplomatic shock?

Saudi Arabia on Wednesday condemned the targeting of Mecca as a "cowardly terrorist attack" after Yemen's Houthis denied launching a drone at the holy city.The Gulf kingdom "reaffirms its legitimate right to take all necessary measures to defend the security of the two holy mosques, the pilgrims, and the entire Saudi territory, its citizens, and its residents," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia condemns 'cowardly terrorist attack' by Houthis on Mecca

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday that Russia has repeatedly said that is not going to attack Western countries and warned that any European military aggression against Russia would trigger a war that will be “completely different” and “very short”.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-will-be-completely-different-and-very-short-if-europe-attacks-russia-warns-lavrov-1789561780082">Read more.</a>

War will be ‘completely different and very short’ if Europe attacks Russia, warns Lavrov

Taiwan’s representative in India has said direct air links with New Delhi will resume on 1 December and that two semiconductor projects involving Taiwanese firms should begin operating within one to two years, as Taipei looks to expand trade and people-to-people contact.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-seeks-deeper-india-ties-as-direct-flights-restart-soon-and-chip-projects-advance-1789563035791">Read more.</a>

Taiwan seeks deeper India ties as direct flights restart soon, and chip projects advance

Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia "attacked Moldova" with a drone because his presidential jet was there at the time, part of what he said was a strategy of intimidation by Moscow. Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store had previously said Zelensky's plane was "almost hit by a drone" when taking off from Moldova. That claim was downplayed Kyiv and Chisinau at the time, with a source telling AFP there was an alert in Moldova "when a Russian (drone) entered Moldovan and Romanian airspace".&nbsp;

Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia "attacked Moldova" because his jet was there

At least 20 people, including five children, were killed and dozens of others were missing after an apartment building collapsed in Gaza from damage sustained in earlier Israeli strikes. The six-storey building, located in the al al-Hawa area of Gaza City, had four apartments on each floor. According to locals, some 10 families had been living in the building despite warnings that it was unsafe.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-killed-in-gaza-apartment-building-collapse-rescuers-search-for-survivors-still-hearing-voices-1789559875758">Read here</a>

At least 20 killed after war-damaged apartment building collapses in Gaza; rescuers search for survivors

The Pakistani Navy vessel that collided with an Indian Navy warship in the North Arabian Sea has been identified as PNS Hunain, a Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV). Indian officials said the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission when Hunain approached at high speed and carried out what they described as “unprofessional and unsafe” manoeuvres. India subsequently summoned Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires on Wednesday and lodged a “strong protest”.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pns-hunain-all-you-need-to-know-about-pakistani-vessel-that-hit-indian-navy-warship-1789560515200">Read the full story here</a>

PNS Hunain: All you need to know about Pakistani vessel that hit Indian Navy warship

The European Union is considering a new level of ties with Canada, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing that Ottawa become the bloc’s first “associate member”. During her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg on Wednesday (Sep 16), Von der Leyen made the offer to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying she wanted to work towards “opening the door” for Canada.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-to-become-eu-s-first-associate-member-von-der-leyen-proposes-move-amid-us-tensions-1789556454399">Read Here</a>

Canada to become EU’s first ‘associate member’? Von der Leyen proposes move amid US tensions

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday (September 16) approved a proposal to raise the wage ceiling for mandatory coverage under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-raises-epfo-wage-ceiling-from-rs-15-000-to-rs-25-000-51-lakh-to-benefit-1789556615917">Read Here</a>

Govt raises EPFO wage ceiling from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000, 51 lakh to benefit

The Indian government has designated the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shahzad-bhatti-network-added-to-uapa-list-of-banned-terrorist-outfits-1789554947535">Read the full story here</a>

Shahzad Bhatti Network added to UAPA list of banned terrorist outfits

A Pakistan Navy ship involved in a collision with an Indian warship in international waters has returned to harbour after sustaining "severe damage", according to sources familiar with the incident.The incident took place on the evening of 15 September in the North Arabian Sea, where a Pakistani naval vessel approached a frontline Indian Navy warship at high speed while the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission. Indian side has described the Pakistani ship's manoeuvring as “unprofessional and unsafe manner,” resulting in a collision. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-naval-vessel-returns-to-harbour-with-severe-damage-after-collision-with-indian-warship-in-arabian-sea-1789553687929">To read the full story, click here</a>

Pakistan naval vessel returns to harbour with 'severe damage' after collision with Indian warship in Arabian Sea

The cost of US President Donald Trump's war on Iran has risen to an estimated $38.1 billion till August, according to a report released by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). According to the report, the war could cost America another $2 billion to $3 billion for each additional month of fighting.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-iran-war-has-cost-us-38-1-billion-cbo-estimates-missile-stocks-face-major-strain-1789546201220">Read here.&nbsp;</a>

Trump’s Iran war has cost US $38.1 billion, CBO estimates; missile stocks face major strain

President Joseph Aoun told AFP that Lebanon wants a new force, from Europe or elsewhere, to avoid a security "vacuum" in the south when UN peacekeepers leave at the end of the year.&nbsp;

Lebanon wants new force to fill 'vacuum' when UN peacekeepers leave: President

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to restrict children’s access to social media during her annual address to the European Parliament on Wednesday.Under the proposed rules, children under 13 would be barred from using social media, while those aged 13 to 15 would only be allowed limited, parent-supervised “mini accounts.” These accounts would include restricted features and time limits."No social media under the age of 13. No personal account under the age of 15," she said during her annual address to the European Parliament. “That means, from 13 until a child turns 15, only mini accounts set up and supervised by parents, with limited features and time restriction.”

EU Plans Social Media Ban for Children Under 13, Parental Supervision Until 15

Global equity markets moved higher on Wednesday as traders awaited an expected US Federal Reserve interest rate hike, which would be the central bank’s first increase since 2023. Sentiment improved after oil prices fell more than 1%, although crude remained above $100 a barrel amid tensions in the Middle East.Investors are closely watching the Fed’s policy statement and voting pattern for clues about whether the move will be a one-off increase or the beginning of a wider tightening cycle. Strong US job growth and persistent inflation have pushed markets to price in a more than 90% chance of a hike.Asian markets including Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Mumbai gained, while European markets opened higher. The Bank of Japan is also expected to raise rates on Friday, while the Bank of England is forecast to hold its benchmark rate.

Global stocks rise as traders await crucial Fed rate decision

EU chief&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen raised the prospect Wednesday of Canada becoming the 27-nation bloc's first "associate member', as she pitched closer cooperation on tech, defence and energy to Canadian leader Mark Carney."I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to be the first associate member of the EU," von der Leyen told the Canadian prime minister, who was attending her annual keynote speech to the European Parliament, drawing a standing ovation in the chamber.

EU chief pitches 'associate member' status for Canada

New Zealand’s Parliament has passed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Wednesday, describing the deal as a “landmark” agreement expected to create more jobs and boost incomes for New Zealanders.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-zealand-parliament-clears-india-trade-deal-95-of-exports-to-get-tariff-cuts-1789540927800">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260916/image-1789545629649.jpg?rect=(0,68,1065,799)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="New Zealand Parliament clears India trade deal, 95% of exports to get tariff cuts"></figure>

New Zealand Parliament clears FTA with India

The Pentagon is asking military commanders to nominate servicemembers to attend Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s “State of the Force” address on September 30, with candidates required to meet specific physical and grooming standards. According to emails reviewed by The Wall Street Journal, nominees must meet the Army’s waist-to-height requirements, pass fitness tests and maintain “impeccable” grooming and uniform standards.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fit-and-impeccable-pentagon-sets-standards-for-hegseth-s-state-of-the-force-speech-attendees-1789538597234">Read here</a>

Fit and impeccable? Pentagon sets standards for Hegseth's 'State of the Force' speech attendees

The Trump administration&nbsp;is planning to deliver powerful 2,000lb bombs to Israel as part of an upcoming arms deal, weapons that prompted such concerns about the possibility of mass casualties in Gaza that the Biden administration paused their delivery two years ago.The $2.8bn package includes 40,000 bombs, made up of 20,000 MK-84s and 20,000 BLU-117s, according to two US officials and a person familiar with the plan who spoke on Tuesday on condition of anonymity to discuss the package, which is not yet final.

US set to deliver 2,000lb bombs to Israel as part of vast arms deal

Tamil Nadu BJP chief Nainar Nagenthran demanded the immediate removal of Ganesha idols allegedly modelled on the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam president and Chief Minister Vijay at Korukkupet in Chennai, saying it “cheapens the spiritual sentiments of the people”

Vijay-Themed Ganesh Idols Spark Huge Political Row In Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay’s event was cancelled in London, after police cited safety concerns. The cancellation left many fans, some of whom had queued for hours, disappointed.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's London event called off over 'safety concerns', fans left waiting

The Iran War has cost the United States a total of $38 billion so far, according to the Congressional Budget Office

Iran war cost hits $38 billion, forecast to rise $3 billion a month, CBO says

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has arrested a 21-year-old Pennsylvania man after an investigation uncovered what federal authorities described as an imminent ISIS-inspired "mass casualty attack". The arrest was made before the alleged mass casualty event could be carried out. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-all-in-the-name-of-fbi-arrests-pennsylvania-21-year-old-over-alleged-isis-inspired-mass-casualty-attack-plot-1789524553059">READ MORE</a>

‘Kill all in the name of...’: FBI arrests 21-year-old over alleged ISIS-inspired mass-casualty attack plot

India’s imports from Russia jumped 57% in the first five months of the financial year, official data show, deepening an energy import-driven relationship even as New Delhi presses Moscow and Beijing for greater market access. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-imports-from-russia-jump-57-in-five-months-china-remains-top-import-source-1789486664084">READ MORE</a>

India’s imports from Russia jump 57% in five months; China remains top import source

The government announced that Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments above ₹2,000 will attract a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) of 0.4 per cent under a revised framework introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). However, consumers will continue to use UPI without paying any charges. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/upi-rule-change-0-4-mdr-on-merchant-payments-above-2-000-consumers-unaffected-1789489025740">READ MORE</a>

UPI rule change: 0.4% MDR on merchant payments above ₹2,000; consumers unaffected

OpenAI boss Sam Altman on Tuesday (Sep 16) said that people were justified in their fears around artificial intelligence (AI), but added that people should have more faith in his company. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-boss-sam-altman-repeats-ai-slow-down-call-says-world-right-to-be-afraid-1789524970459">READ MORE</a>

OpenAI boss Sam Altman repeats AI 'slow down' call, says world 'right to be afraid'

Three people have died after a helicopter crashed between two commercial buildings in the Chatsworth neighbourhood of Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The helicopter went down near Lurline Avenue and Nordhoff Street shortly before 19:00 local time on Tuesday, an LAFD spokesperson was quoted as saying in an interview. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/los-angeles-helicopter-crash-at-least-three-dead-several-injured-ntsb-to-investigate-1789530915516">READ MORE</a>

Los Angeles helicopter crash: At least three dead, several injured; NTSB to investigate

Saudi Arabia has said that its air defences intercepted a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it entered restricted airspace over the holy city. Soon after, several areas on Saudi Arabia'swestern coast, including the holy city of Mecca and the Jeddah and Taif governorates were briefly put on alert. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-accuses-houthis-of-drone-attack-on-mecca-first-ever-red-alert-in-islam-s-holiest-site-sparks-panic-1789531656093">READ MORE</a>

Saudi Arabia accuses Houthis of drone attack on Mecca

Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of targeting Mecca with a drone, while the US House advanced a Russia sanctions bill with potential 100% tariffs. AI safety concerns, a fatal LA helicopter crash, CDSCO’s warning on skin creams, UPI fees and more

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. Saudi Arabia has accused the Houthis of attempting to target Mecca with a drone, saying its air defences intercepted the UAV before it entered restricted airspace near Islam’s holiest city. The Houthis have denied targeting Mecca. In the United States, the House has advanced a Russia sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries importing Russian oil, potentially affecting major buyers such as India and China. Meanwhile, AI leaders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, have spoken publicly about growing concerns over artificial intelligence safety, regulation and the pace of development. In California, NBC’s Colleen Williams confirmed that NewsChopper 4 was the helicopter that crashed in Los Angeles, killing three people. The incident occurred near the Chatsworth crash site where an SUV previously ploughed into a Metro bus, killing at least two people. In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has issued a nationwide public health alert over two unauthorised Pakistan-made skin-whitening products, Goree Beauty Cream and Chandni Whitening Cream. Meanwhile, discussions continue over merchant discount rates and fees for large merchant payments on UPI, while transactions up to ₹2,000 remain free. In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s high-profile official visit to the United Kingdom has sparked political debate back home, with attention focused on the visit and its wider political implications

Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of targeting Mecca with a drone, while the US House advanced a Russia sanctions bill with potential 100% tariffs. AI safety concerns, a fatal LA helicopter crash, CDSCO’s warning on skin creams, UPI fees and more

Latest India & World News Today LIVE: Mecca missile alert, heath alert in India over Pak-made creams, and more

Zee TV UK has announced Air India as the title sponsor of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 for the upcoming season of the singing reality show. The new season premieres on September 19, 2026, and promises to return on a larger scale with a concert-inspired format.<h2>Sa Re Ga Ma Pa new season</h2>The 2026 edition will feature 36 original episodes and 100 live musicians, along with a grand royal-inspired set. The judging panel comprises Shankar Mahadevan, Kumar Sanu, Javed Ali and Niti Mohan.&nbsp;For more than two decades, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has remained one of India's longest-running music reality shows and has played a role in introducing and nurturing singing talent.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/hanuman-ansh-director-vishal-chaturvedi-announces-rambola-film-on-goswami-tulsidas-1789381894888">Hanuman Ansh director Vishal Chaturvedi announces RamBola</a>&nbsp;The series has also garnered a large global audience over the years and has become a staple of family entertainment for viewers everywhere.<h2>Air India and Zee TV UK partnership</h2>The partnership between Air India and Zee TV UK also highlights their connection with Indians living outside the country.&nbsp;For Indians living overseas, the singing reality show has become more than just television entertainment. Through music, language and family viewing, the programme has helped generations stay connected to their roots while bringing Indian music and culture into homes across different countries.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/salman-khan-gives-the-revolutionaries-a-shoutout-watches-series-with-bhuvan-bam-nikkhil-advani-at-galaxy-1789531578408">Salman Khan gives The Revolutionaries a shoutout, watches series with Bhuvan Bam, Nikkhil Advani at Galaxy</a>&nbsp;Across the UK and Europe, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa will continue to reach audiences through Zee's entertainment ecosystem, including Zee TV UK, Zee TV DE, Zee5 and digital platforms such as Samsung TV Plus, Rakuten TV and BT/EE. The channel's programming is also available across platforms including Sky and Virgin Media.&nbsp;Zee TV UK's digital presence further extends the show's reach, with its platforms supported by a large South Asian online community.&nbsp;The new season is also arriving during a key festive and travel period, covering celebrations such as Navratri, Dussehra, Karwa Chauth, Diwali, the wedding season, Christmas and New Year. The period traditionally sees families come together, reconnect and travel to spend time with loved ones.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/shah-rukh-khan-confirms-release-date-of-his-next-king-reveals-makers-working-on-the-asset-1789467514613">SRK confirms release date of his next KING, reveals makers working on the asset</a>&nbsp;The season is supported by partner brands including Vitabiotics, Rutland Hall Hotel &amp; Spa, Pooja Sweets and Dairy Valley, Southall Travel, Bigen and Remitly.Parul Goel, Territory Head Europe, Zee Entertainment UK, said, "We are delighted to welcome Air India as the Title Sponsor of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026.&nbsp;India's biggest singing reality show and India's flagship global airline coming together is a natural and powerful partnership. For millions of Indians living outside India, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is a connection to home, culture and identity. With our biggest-ever season, a spectacular concert and exceptional talent, style format, a magnificent royalinspired set, and legendary judges, we believe Air India Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 will be a celebration of India and its global community like never before."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/ram-gopal-varma-reveals-details-of-mohit-suri-s-gangster-drama-says-film-will-be-bigger-than-dhurandhar-1789383307331">Ram Gopal Varma reveals details of Mohit Suri’s gangster drama</a><h2>Where and when to watch</h2>Air India Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 will premiere on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 7:30 pm on Zee TV UK. Viewers can watch it on Sky channel 707, Virgin channel 809, BT/EE channel 391, Sky Glass/Sky Stream channel 713, and stream it on Zee5.&nbsp;

Zee TV UK has welcomed Air India as the title sponsor of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026. The new season of the reality show premieres on September 19. Read on to know more.

Zee TV UK has announced Air India as the title sponsor of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 for the upcoming season of the singing reality show. The new season premieres on September 19, 2026, and promises to return on a larger scale with a concert-inspired format. Sa Re Ga Ma Pa new season The 2026 edition will feature 36 original episodes and 100 live musicians, along with a grand royal-inspired set. The judging panel comprises Shankar Mahadevan, Kumar Sanu, Javed Ali and Niti Mohan. For more than two decades, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has remained one of India's longest-running music reality shows and has played a role in introducing and nurturing singing talent. Also Read: Hanuman Ansh director Vishal Chaturvedi announces RamBola The series has also garnered a large global audience over the years and has become a staple of family entertainment for viewers everywhere. Air India and Zee TV UK partnership The partnership between Air India and Zee TV UK also highlights their connection with Indians living outside the country. For Indians living overseas, the singing reality show has become more than just television entertainment. Through music, language and family viewing, the programme has helped generations stay connected to their roots while bringing Indian music and culture into homes across different countries. Also Read: Salman Khan gives The Revolutionaries a shoutout, watches series with Bhuvan Bam, Nikkhil Advani at Galaxy Across the UK and Europe, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa will continue to reach audiences through Zee's entertainment ecosystem, including Zee TV UK, Zee TV DE, Zee5 and digital platforms such as Samsung TV Plus, Rakuten TV and BT/EE. The channel's programming is also available across platforms including Sky and Virgin Media. Zee TV UK's digital presence further extends the show's reach, with its platforms supported by a large South Asian online community. The new season is also arriving during a key festive and travel period, covering celebrations such as Navratri, Dussehra, Karwa Chauth, Diwali, the wedding season, Christmas and New Year. The period traditionally sees families come together, reconnect and travel to spend time with loved ones. Also Read: SRK confirms release date of his next KING, reveals makers working on the asset The season is supported by partner brands including Vitabiotics, Rutland Hall Hotel & Spa, Pooja Sweets and Dairy Valley, Southall Travel, Bigen and Remitly. Parul Goel, Territory Head Europe, Zee Entertainment UK, said, "We are delighted to welcome Air India as the Title Sponsor of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026. India's biggest singing reality show and India's flagship global airline coming together is a natural and powerful partnership. For millions of Indians living outside India, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is a connection to home, culture and identity. With our biggest-ever season, a spectacular concert and exceptional talent, style format, a magnificent royalinspired set, and legendary judges, we believe Air India Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 will be a celebration of India and its global community like never before." Also Read: Ram Gopal Varma reveals details of Mohit Suri’s gangster drama Where and when to watch Air India Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 will premiere on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 7:30 pm on Zee TV UK. Viewers can watch it on Sky channel 707, Virgin channel 809, BT/EE channel 391, Sky Glass/Sky Stream channel 713, and stream it on Zee5.

Zee TV UK has welcomed Air India as the title sponsor of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026. The new season of the reality show premieres on September 19. Read on to know more.

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 announces Air India as title sponsor; new season to premiere on THIS date

Ali Fazal, Rajkummar Rao, and Pankaj Tripathi are some of the actors who have built a career through varied performances, and their commercial successes have further established them as bankable names in Bollywood.


Ali Fazal, Rajkummar Rao, and Pankaj Tripathi are some of the actors who have built a career through varied performances, and their commercial successes have further established them as bankable names in Bollywood. &nbsp;

Ali Fazal, Rajkummar Rao and more: 6 characters that took these actors into the ₹100 crore club

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