Meta ropes in Chirantan Desai to lead new AI platform for enterprise customers

Meta has appointed Chirantan "CJ" Desai as Chief Enterprise Platform Officer to spearhead its new AI initiatives for enterprise customers, a significant move that CEO Mark Zuckerberg hopes will enhance Meta's offerings in the sector. Desai's departure from MongoDB triggered a 21% stock drop for the company, as Meta aims to leverage its AI capabilities for business growth. This platform represents a key focus for Meta’s future.

Sai Pallavi was ‘awestruck’ seeing Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama in Ramayana

Sony Pictures will globally distribute the upcoming film "Ramayana," starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, while Dharma Productions focuses on the Hindi market; an IMAX release is also planned. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the two-part film features a star-studded cast and emphasizes cultural authenticity. The first part releases during Diwali 2026.

Bored of your usual homemade coffee? Try this easy-to-make creamy salted coffee

Elevate your coffee experience at home with Chef Saloni Kukreja's salted cream coffee from her ‘Brew It Yourself’ series, which combines instant coffee, honey, and fresh cream for a budget-friendly cafe-style drink. Simple steps create a deliciously creamy beverage topped with a salted foam, providing a delightful twist to your usual homemade coffee. Enjoy chilled!

Days of rain bring Lucknow’s AQI down to 34, lowest in years

Rainfall in Lucknow has significantly improved air quality, lowering the AQI to 34, its best level in 2023, thanks to the washing away of pollutants. Continual good air quality was noted, with readings from various monitoring stations remaining low. Under CPCB standards, an AQI under 50 is classified as ‘good’, indicating a rare environmental win for the city.

PETA India urges Centre to ban meat advertisements from October 2

PETA India has urged the government to ban meat advertisements across all media starting October 2, in honor of Mahatma Gandhi's commitment to ahimsa. The organization raised concerns over antimicrobial resistance and the health risks associated with intensive animal farming, projecting millions of deaths in India by 2050. PETA highlighted India’s long-standing vegetarian traditions and cited similar bans in Europe.

Oil prices rise as Iran-US ceasefire talks stall over Strait of Hormuz

Brent crude oil prices surged past $108 a barrel as tensions between Iran and the US stymied ceasefire negotiations for the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent's prompt spread indicating a tight market. Diplomatic talks remain stalled, and supply constraints escalate amid rising diesel prices and shipping costs, raising fears of an energy crisis in Europe.

First time skiing? 5 beginner-friendly trails in Utah for your winter getaway

Utah is an ideal winter getaway for beginners wanting to ski, with numerous beginner-friendly trails such as Snowbasin's Slo Road and Brian Head's Navajo Trail offering gentle terrain and beautiful scenery. Travel expert Rachel Bremer highlights the growing interest among Indian travelers in winter sports, emphasizing Utah’s light snowfall that enhances skiing experiences.

800 mm crossed: UP records its rainiest year in over a decade

Uttar Pradesh has recorded 802 mm of monsoon rainfall this season, exceeding 800 mm for the first time in 11 years, and surpassing the long-period average by 8% due to recent excess rains. September became the wettest month in recent years, with 244.7 mm so far, nearly double last year's rainfall. Historical data reflects significant increases in rainfall patterns.

Vineet Minocha murder case: Framed by husband, Shalu Minocha walks out of jail

Shalu Minocha was released from jail after a court accepted a police closure report clearing her of involvement in the murder of her father-in-law, drug trader Vineet Minocha. The court ordered her release on a personal bond, concluding her judicial custody, based on findings that she had been falsely implicated by her husband. Vineet was murdered on September 5.

Why Nvidia is building AI safety tools as autonomous agents become more powerful

Nvidia has unveiled new software tools to enhance the safety of AI agents amid rising concerns about their capabilities following a hack of Hugging Face. The tools, including OpenShell and Sentry, aim to contain AI agents and monitor their behavior. Nvidia emphasizes engineering solutions over regulations, addressing the growing risks posed by autonomous AI systems in collaboration with other industry partners.

Supreme Court suggests ways to recover unpaid traffic challans: ‘Add it to…’

The Supreme Court proposed strategies for states and Union Territories to recover approximately ₹20,000 crore in unpaid e-challan fines following a public interest litigation on road safety. Suggestions included linking fines to electricity bills, blocking vehicle registration updates, and blacklisting vehicles. The court emphasized the need for effective recovery measures rather than merely issuing fines.

Vithya Ramraj breaks PT Usha’s 42-year-old national hurdles mark

Vithya Ramraj shattered PT Usha's 42-year-old national record in the 400m hurdles at the Aichi-Nagoya Games, clocking 54.75 seconds and securing a bronze medal. Usha praised the achievement as an inspiring milestone for future athletes. Competing in a race where UAE's Mariam Kareem won gold, Vithya expressed joy over her timing, emphasizing her focus on performance.

Easy mutton, quick buck: Six goat thieves held in Lucknow

A goat theft gang in Mohanlalganj was dismantled by police, resulting in the arrest of six men and the recovery of three goats along with ₹3,300 from their illicit sales. The suspects scouted villages in two cars, targeting goats. Their operation was linked to at least two thefts, prompting a dedicated investigation using CCTV and local intelligence.

Super Monday for UP athletes at 20th Asiad

Uttar Pradesh athletes excel at the 20th Asian Games, securing a total of one gold, three silver, and three bronze medals by the tenth day. Notable performances included Gulveer Singh's silver in the men’s 1500m and medals for Parul Chaudhary and Rohit Yadav in their respective events. Deepti Sharma contributed by winning gold in women’s cricket for UP, marking a thriving moment for the state's sports history.

The Vvaan box office day 4 (updated live): Folk thriller film crosses ₹37 crore

The Vvaan Force of the Forrest debuted with strong box office performance, grossing ₹37.65 crore in its opening weekend, surpassing Sidharth Malhotra's recent films. Despite a dip on Monday with ₹4 crore, the film has shown potential, especially in Bihar. It follows Rishi and Mamta's journey during Chhath Puja, produced by Balaji Motion Pictures.

UP built investor trust through handholding till factory starts: Nandi

Uttar Pradesh's Industrial Development Minister Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’ emphasized the state’s growing investor confidence during the UP International Trade Show, crediting trust and dialogue for attracting nearly Rs 40,000 crore in proposals for the Defence Industrial Corridor. He outlined the government’s commitment to facilitating investments through improved infrastructure and streamlined processes, highlighting opportunities beyond large defense firms.

Uttarakhand CM seeks safe evacuation of trekkers stranded in Uttarkashi

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered immediate action to secure the safe return of trekkers and porters stranded in Uttarkashi due to recent snowfall. He emphasized prioritizing their safety and coordinating resources for rescue operations. While details on the number affected remain unclear, Dhami reinforced that ensuring the safety of all visitors is the government's utmost concern.

Delhi govt signs MoU with ICCR to expand global cultural outreach

The Delhi government and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance the international exposure of Delhi's art and culture. The partnership aims to support cultural diplomacy, tourism, and academic exchanges, while facilitating opportunities for local artists. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized the global visibility of Delhi’s heritage, though specific programme details remain unspecified.

Is Trump upset with Maria Elvira Salazar? ‘She is nothing but a back stabber’

Former President Donald Trump publicly rebuked Florida Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar for diverging from his immigration stance in her campaign advertisement, stating, “I disagree with her,” and claiming she has become "soft on the border." Despite this, Salazar described their post-ad conversation as “very good.” Her ad comes during heightened ICE enforcement, with record detentions.

‘Ask for PM's resignation directly': Kejriwal to CJP amid ECI dissent row

Amid escalating tensions, CJP co-convener Saurav Das proclaimed that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar will face generational backlash from Gen Z, following allegations of misconduct within the election commission. CJP plans nationwide protests on October 2, despite Mumbai Police denying permission. The group's firm stance calls for Kumar's resignation, with AAP’s Kejriwal urging a direct demand for Prime Minister Modi's accountability.

'Parents are not God': CEO questions Indian parenting norms, sparks debate

A Gurgaon CEO, Jasveer Singh, has ignited controversy by challenging the notion that parents are akin to God, asserting that parenthood does not bestow wisdom or authority. He criticized Indian parenting for promoting obedience over independence. Singh emphasized that children do not owe their parents lifelong loyalty due to a decision made before their existence, prompting mixed reactions online about parenting norms.

India schedule at Asian Games 2026 Day 11: Sable, Gulveer chase 5000m glory

India aims for a medal-heavy day at the Asian Games 2026 on September 29, with shooting, boxing, and athletics events highlighting the schedule. Medal opportunities arise as trap shooters and three boxers compete in semifinals, followed by athletics finals featuring multiple Indian athletes. This follows India's strong performance earlier in the Games, indicating promising medal prospects.

Odisha, Chhattisgarh CMs to meet Amit Shah over Mahanadi water dispute

Odisha and Chhattisgarh chief ministers will meet Thursday under Union Home Minister Amit Shah to resolve the long-standing Mahanadi water-sharing dispute. State advocate general Pitambar Acharya expressed hope for a mutually acceptable solution post recent discussions. The rivalry has persisted for years, pending resolution at the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal since 2018, with technical talks ongoing.

Alia Bhatt shares romantic pic with Ranbir Kapoor on his 44th birthday

Ranbir Kapoor, celebrating his 44th birthday, has several major film projects lined up, including Sanjay Leela Bhansali's *Love & War* and the sequel *Animal Park*, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. His wife Alia Bhatt highlighted their family moments in a heartfelt Instagram post, prompting a positive fan reaction. Ranbir is set to portray Lord Ram in *Ramayana: Part 1*, releasing in Diwali 2026.

Odisha man beaten to death, body burnt over witchcraft suspicion: Police

A 41-year-old man, Ramachandra Malik, was reportedly beaten to death and burnt by villagers in Odisha’s Gajapati district after being accused of witchcraft, prompting police to detain five suspects. This incident follows the Odisha government's efforts to implement a State Policy for Witch-Hunting aimed at enhancing preventive measures and ensuring swift justice in similar cases. Malik's family had long faced suspicion from the community.

Non-cognisable report filed against Parvesh Verma over slap incident

A non-cognisable report has been filed against Delhi minister Parvesh Verma following an incident where he allegedly slapped a man. The police have documented the complaint but will not initiate an investigation without further evidence. Verma is under scrutiny amid growing tensions in Delhi's political landscape, with previous controversies surrounding the minister adding to the situation's complexity.

Elizabeth Holmes posts strange message from jail ahead of documentary release

Elizabeth Holmes, founder of Theranos, has been convicted of three counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy, related to defrauding investors. Sentenced to over 11 years, her term was later reduced. Scheduled for a Texas reentry center in 2027, Holmes asserts her innocence in recent social media posts while implying a personal return to communication.

India, Brazil, South Africa oppose attacks on multilateralism, back West Asia dialogue

India, Brazil, and South Africa expressed deep concerns over escalating tensions in West Asia and threats to multilateralism during a recent foreign ministers' meeting at the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the need for civilian protection and global governance reform. They supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and condemned terrorism, highlighting the Global South's role in promoting dialogue and equitable governance amidst contemporary challenges.

David Zervos joins the US Treasury as a counselor as the 10-year yield hits 5.2%

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appointed veteran economist David Zervos as a counselor at the U.S. Treasury, effective immediately. With Treasury yields rising sharply to 5.2%, Zervos will advise on managing borrowing costs and financial markets. Previously considered for a Fed position, he supports lower interest rates and Treasury buybacks, underscoring his economic expertise crucial for his role.

India’s critical minerals challenge is about supply-chain security

India's strategic focus on critical minerals goes beyond mere resource possession; the nation must develop robust processing and manufacturing capabilities to enhance industrial competitiveness. Currently, reliance on foreign supply chains poses vulnerabilities. By fostering an integrated ecosystem, including recycling and collaboration with the private sector, India can transition from raw material exporter to a hub of high-value production.