GST reforms treating contract manufacturing for foreign principals as exports could boost India’s appeal as companies relocate parts of their supply chains. Expanded refunds covering input services and capital goods, faster 90% refunds and measures to release blocked tax credits are also expected to unlock working capital and support investment.

The Trump administration is launching an investigation into nine US universities over alleged J-1 visa fraud, with officials raising concerns about Chinese scholars and the Chinese government. The J-1 programme covers exchange visitors including international researchers, scholars and students, who may receive temporary authorisation to work or conduct research in the US. At a Thursday press conference, Anthony D’Esposito, inspector general of the US Department of Labor, announced what he called...

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for global collaboration to address rising cross-border cybercrime during the 10th India Mobile Congress. He emphasized the importance of trust in digital services for their wider adoption and use. Modi proposed establishing a mechanism through GSMA and telecom operators to combat digital fraud effectively. India expressed readiness to share its experiences in tackling cyber threats with other nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for global collaboration to address rising cross-border cybercrime during the 10th India Mobile Congress. He emphasized the importance of trust in digital services for their wider adoption and use. Modi proposed establishing a mechanism through GSMA and telecom operators to combat digital fraud effectively. India expressed readiness to share its experiences in tackling cyber threats with other nations.

Sean Diddy Combs is serving a 50-month sentence at FCI Fort Dix due to his recent conviction. Reports indicate he leads a luxurious life behind bars with special treatment from others. Combs allegedly has people cooking for him and providing massages while serving his sentence. He has been seen using a contraband cellphone for personal purposes, which raises security concerns.

Columbus Day 2026 is set for Monday, October 12, and will be recognized as a federal holiday. As a result, all federal offices and courts will be closed, while the U.S. Postal Service will not deliver regular mail. Many private businesses, including grocery stores and restaurants, will remain open, though hours may vary. Banks may also alter their operations, reflecting the status of Columbus Day as a Federal Reserve holiday.

The GST Council has recommended allowing employers to claim input tax credit on GST paid for health and life insurance policies taken for employees. The move could reduce the effective cost of employer-sponsored coverage, particularly benefiting small businesses, while making group health insurance more affordable and improving employee benefits.

8 years on from Sandpapergate, Australia chase redemption in South Africa Tests

GST reforms 2026 will move around 2 lakh businesses operating across multiple CGST jurisdictions towards a centralised, faceless tax administration, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said. The framework will cover scrutiny, audits, adjudication, appeals and taxpayer services, with public consultation planned before Budget 2027 and implementation targeted for FY28.

Reliance Jio is preparing for the initial public offering of Jio Platforms, which could set a historic record. Chairman Akash Ambani emphasized the responsibility to deliver value to shareholders, especially retail investors. The company aims to share the value created with Indian citizens through this public issue. Jio's proposed valuation ranges between $110 billion and $140 billion, raising approximately $4 billion.