‘Lower rate or…': Trump threatens to stop trading with US trade-deficit nations

US President Donald Trump threatened to halt trading with countries where the US has a trade deficit unless the Federal Reserve lowers interest rates, citing a need for a more favorable economic position. His demand stems from strong job growth and precedes crucial midterm elections. However, the Fed operates independently, often disregarding Trump's calls for lower rates.

HT City Delhi Junction: Catch It Live on Sept 5 in Delhi, Noida and Gurugram

A range of cultural events is scheduled for September 5 across Delhi, including "Staged" at Akshara Theatre, "Legends of Tomorrow" at Triveni Auditorium, and "Vision to Victory" at the India International Centre, with free entry for many. Events feature dance performances, art workshops, and performances by North East artists at various venues.

Dialogue, not oil bans, will end Ukraine war: Jaishankar defends energy buys

The Russia-Ukraine conflict can only be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, emphasized India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar after talks with Polish counterpart Radosław Sikorski. Jaishankar reiterated that energy purchases, essential for India, are not the solution. Discussions also covered trade, defense, and maritime safety, reflecting the broader cooperation between India and Poland. This engagement underscores the need for peaceful resolutions to global conflicts.

Lindsay Clancy trial: Why did Kevin Reddington ‘whip off’ his glasses?

Lindsay Clancy's murder trial ended in a mistrial after the jury, deadlocked during deliberations, reported they could not reach a unanimous verdict, prompting Judge William Sullivan's declaration. Tensions escalated between the judge and Clancy's lawyer, Kevin Reddington, who sought time for an appeal. This situation follows substantial public interest and sympathy surrounding Clancy's case.

3 Ludhiana educators among 55 selected for state teacher awards

Three Ludhiana teachers, Sukhdhir Singh, Sarabjit Singh, and Sukhpal Kaur, have been selected for the Punjab State Teacher Awards, with the presentation set for Teachers’ Day. Singh has improved GPS Moti Nagar significantly since 2020, while Sarabjit enhanced economics interest at his school. Kaur promotes Punjabi literature through a Canada-based project, fostering student engagement.

Kolkata school teacher suspended for asking student to wipe off tilak: Adhikari

A Kolkata school teacher has been suspended for forcing a student to remove his sandalwood tilak, following a complaint from a Class 5 student. An FIR has been filed against her. The Holy Mission English Medium School, which serves predominantly non-Bengali Hindus, is reviewing the case. The government also suspended a state employee for an inappropriate post about the Prime Minister.

Expired curd, misbranded food, bed bugs powder: 23 Bengaluru PGs under scanner

Bengaluru's food safety officials inspected 64 paying guest accommodations, discovering that 23 violated food safety norms, including using expired items. Inspections, ordered by Health Minister U T Khader, revealed unhygienic conditions and led to the seizure of expired food. The department emphasized compliance with food safety regulations, warning of legal action for violations.

Ludhiana: Countrymade pistol, live bullet recovered in espionage case

Ludhiana Police recovered a .32 bore countrymade pistol and a live bullet from Rachhpal Singh, a key suspect in an espionage case involving the transmission of live CCTV footage to Pakistan. His accomplices were arrested as police investigate further. Rachhpal, arrested on August 27, used CCTV to monitor Ludhiana for security intelligence. He allegedly intended to sell the weapon to local gangs.

Over delayed principal appointments: Panjab University summons four Ludhiana reps

Panjab University has summoned representatives from four Ludhiana colleges, including Arya College, on September 11 to address their failure to appoint regular principals. Despite previous reminders, many colleges have stalled hiring processes. Concurrently, Arya College faculty protests continue over governance violations, with faculty demanding a permanent principal and addressing service grievances. The university remains firm on timelines.

GCL hopes to becomes the format chess needs

Viswanathan Anand, Magnus Carlsen, and 14-year-old Yağız Kaan Erdoğmuş headline the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League starting September 5, showcasing a generational clash. With six teams competing in a double round robin, the event introduces live features to engage audiences and promote chess. The league aims to expand the game's appeal through innovative formats and real-time fan interactions.

Chirag Paswan’s party seeks FIR against ‘influencer’ over ‘misuse’ of his name

Union Minister Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) filed a police complaint against influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj, accusing him of misusing Paswan's name for false political claims. Viral footage allegedly shows Bhardwaj confessing to violence linked to a CJP activist's father, while asserting immunity from arrest due to political ties, prompting calls for legal action. Paswan emphasized his commitment to justice for the victim's family.

Is Lindsay Clancy jury divided 11-1? Latest verdict and mistrial update

The Lindsay Clancy jury was split 11-1, favoring acquittal, leading Judge William Sullivan to declare a mistrial on September 4. The jury foreperson reported the lone juror acknowledged doubt but wouldn't apply it, prompting defense attorney Kevin Reddington to seek removal, a request denied by Sullivan. The case centers on interpretations of reasonable doubt.

Ludhiana: Small factory owners fear closure as mixed land use policy ends this month

Approximately 10,000 small and medium industrial units in 72 mixed land use localities face closure as their operating policy expires on September 30. Industry leaders warn that without government support for relocation to suitable industrial land, lakhs of workers could lose jobs and essential manufacturing operations may be disrupted. The policy, originally introduced in 2008-09, has seen multiple extensions due to unmet promises of alternative industrial zones.

Indian woman in US says owning a car is a ‘survival need’. Here's why

An Indian woman's video highlights the stark contrast in car ownership between India and the US, noting that while in India a car is seen as a luxury, in the US it becomes a necessity, especially outside major cities. Users reacted, agreeing with her views. Baldeva describes the culture shock of adapting to a car-dependent lifestyle in America.

Fisichella backs Antonelli for Monza fightback despite grid penalty

Former F1 winner Giancarlo Fisichella believes Kimi Antonelli, despite starting from the back due to an engine penalty, can excel at the Italian Grand Prix, citing Monza's overtaking opportunities. Fisichella praised Antonelli's growth this season and noted McLaren's Lando Norris poses a challenge. The evolving title race adds excitement for both Ferrari fans and local supporters.

10-hour power outage sparks protests at Ludhiana grids

A sudden 10-hour power outage in Ludhiana ignited protests as residents rallied at five 66-kV grids after a scheduled outage from 8 pm to midnight was extended until 6 am. Frustrated families, particularly those with children and elderly, demanded clear communication and separation of residential loads from industrial feeders. Power was restored at 6 am after widespread unrest.

The entertainer: Monfils and a matter of joy

At 40, Gael Monfils celebrated his birthday with a thrilling US Open match, captivating fans with an acrobatic style that set him apart in modern tennis. Although he faced defeat in the second round, his unique play left a lasting impression. Transitioning to finance next year, Monfils reflects on a career filled with joy and memorable performances.

USS Lincoln's 5,000 sailors unwind in Pattaya after 286 days at sea against Iran

The USS Abraham Lincoln's crew enjoyed a long-awaited port call in Pattaya, Thailand, after a record 286 days at sea, facing challenges like food shortages and mental strain. Sailors embraced local culture, visiting malls and enjoying discounts at venues. Local businesses welcomed them with special offers, amid concerns about the crew’s well-being during the deployment against Iran.

The best do not always win the World Cup: Cafu

Cafu, the last Brazilian captain to win the FIFA World Cup, recently visited Mumbai, where he engaged with students and reflected on Brazil's current national team's struggles following their early exit from the 2022 World Cup. He emphasized the importance of developing an identity with the national team and looked forward to Brazil's upcoming friendly match in Kolkata. Cafu highlighted the evolution of global football and expressed hope for future success.

Kadamba dynasty rule was Goa’s real golden period: CM Pramod Sawant

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant declared that Goa’s true golden period was under the Hindu Kadamba dynasty between the 10th and 14th centuries, not during European colonization. He emphasized the restoration of temples and the ancient port of Gopakapattana. This effort challenges the narrative of 'Goa Dourada', highlighting Goa’s rich Hindu heritage lost over centuries. The temple restoration project was recently initiated on Divar Island.

England continue to punish Carse: Not in white-ball squads for Sri Lanka either

England has announced its white-ball squads for three T20Is and three ODIs against Sri Lanka, excluding Brydon Carse due to a nightclub incident. Two uncapped players, batsman Aneurin Donald and pacer Henry Crocombe, have been selected. The T20I series begins on September 15, followed by the ODIs starting September 22. Carse’s situation remains under investigation.

FBI-wanted suspect arrested in Jalandhar over $6 lakh scam in US

Punjab Police arrested 65-year-old Manjit Singh Bedi, recently placed on the FBI's most-wanted fraudsters list for a $600,000 SNAP benefits scheme. Bedi allegedly evaded US legal proceedings by fleeing to India through Canada in April. Authorities are investigating his international travel and financial connections, alongside local fraud allegations under Indian law. Bedi's fraud involved swindling customers' EBT cards.

Outage effect: PSPCL top brass camps at thermal plants to monitor generation

Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has assigned its CMD and four directors to manage the state's five thermal power plants amid a power shortfall of 2,000 MW as demand spikes during the paddy season. Currently, Punjab generates 4,200 MW but faces severe outages affecting agriculture and industries, prompting officials to enhance operations and address issues swiftly.

Pretorius’ 101 powers South Africa past Namibia, sets up final vs Zimbabwe

South Africa's Lhuan-dre Pretorius scored his first T20I century, amassing 101 runs from 53 balls, helping the team defeat Namibia by 11 runs in Windhoek, securing a spot in the final against Zimbabwe. Despite Namibia's strong start with a partnership of 119 runs, they fell short at 217 runs after Steenkamp retired hurt.

‘Janmashtami gift’: Punjab government to hike DA of 85,000 staffers from 42% to 60%

The Punjab government has raised the dearness allowance for around 85,000 employees hired after July 17, 2020, from 42% to 60%, described as a ‘Janmashtami gift’ by minister Aman Arora. This decision follows employee agitation regarding pending DA increments. The change aligns post-2020 recruits' benefits with central government standards, addressing historical pay discrepancies amid ongoing protests.

HT Picks; New Reads

Joachim Coutinho leaves Mangalore for a challenging life in Bahrain, hoping to escape poverty and pursue his dreams of acting, but faces loneliness and inadequacy instead. His nephew, Darrel Serrao, envies his uncle’s seemingly successful life abroad. This narrative of family, ambition, and disillusionment reflects the deeper themes of migration and human relationships.

Djamel White: “The real pain here isn’t bullet wounds”

**All Them Dogs** explores gang violence and familial relationships through Tony, who seeks acceptance and navigates shame and identity. His struggles resonate with readers as they reveal deeper themes of belonging. Inspired by pop culture, the author emphasizes character complexity and emotional realism while challenging the glorification of violence and presenting a nuanced portrayal of masculinity.

Punjab readies for bumper basmati yield this season

Punjab anticipates a record basmati crop this kharif season, with production expected at 30 lakh tonnes, up from 20 lakh tonnes last year. The expansion of cultivation area to 6.76 lakh hectares and favorable prices of ₹3,800 per quintal boost farmer optimism. Improved yield projections signal a lucrative season for farmers, exporters, and traders alike.

Moosewala murder: HC declines bail to accused, terms him ‘prime accused’

The Punjab and Haryana high court has denied bail to Joginder Singh, a key accused in the murder of singer Sidhu Moosewala, asserting he played a significant role in the conspiracy. Moosewala was shot in May 2022. Joginder, arrested in June 2023, is linked to gangster Goldy Brar and has a lengthy criminal history, raising concerns about potential evidence tampering.

Terrorist shot dead in Budgam encounter

Security forces killed an unidentified terrorist during a joint operation in the Ashdhar forests of Budgam district, Kashmir, on Friday. The operation, launched by the army, police, and CRPF, encountered gunfire with the terrorists. This incident marks a resurgence of encounters in the Valley after months of inactivity, with the identity of the slain terrorist still unknown.