Times of India

Mobile phone retailers across India are set to observe a 'No UPI Day' on October 2. This protest arises against the proposed 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000. The All India Mobile Retailers Association highlights additional costs that may impact small retailers significantly. The government insists consumers will not bear the MDR, which will apply starting October 15.

Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel visited Israel on September 26, warning officials about impending Hamas aggression. He urged Israel to make economic concessions to prevent escalation, signaling a dangerous situation in Gaza. Despite his warnings, Israeli officials reportedly did not take specific action in response. Numerous warnings continued to emerge from Egypt and other nations leading up to the October 7 attack.

Anahat Singh and Abhay Singh showcased their skills at the Asian Games, clinching silver medals for India. Anahat faced a tough match against Malaysia's Sivasangari Subramaniam, while Abhay was outplayed by Ng Eain Yow. This was a significant achievement for Anahat, marking her as a finalist in women's singles. Additionally, the country bagged a bronze in mixed doubles, enhancing the overall medal count.

At just 14 years old, Ashrit Talluri from Georgia has achieved remarkable success, scoring a flawless 1600 on the SAT exam. Having earned 14½ high school credits in middle school, he is now taking college-level courses as a ninth grader at Innovation Academy. With five months of meticulous preparation behind him, Ashrit dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon, eager to delve into projects that combine cutting-edge technology with healthcare.

This week on Dalal Street sees a shortened holiday schedule as geopolitical concerns and volatile oil prices loom large. Analysts believe negotiations between the US and Iran might sway both oil costs and the rupee's value. Investors are on high alert for shifts in global bond yields that impact emerging markets, while key domestic metrics like industrial production and auto sales are set to provide essential economic insights.

Around 70,000 rural youth across 24 States and Union Territories are expected to begin skill training under DDU-GKY 2.0 from October 2026. The Ministry of Rural Development said 2,015 batches are planned, with training linked to employment opportunities. The scheme covers courses lasting three to 12 months, aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework. States must complete target allocations to implementing agencies by October 31, 2026, as the Centre accelerates the rollout.

Kunal Ghosh, a Trinamool Congress MLA, alleged an attempted murder on his way to a program in Kolkata. Armed men reportedly smashed his car window and attempted to drag him outside. This incident followed a previous attack on Saturday where his vehicle was damaged by protesters in Uttarpara. Ghosh accused the BJP of involvement and criticized the police response to these incidents.

At the Asian Games 2026, Abhay Singh proudly claimed the silver medal in men’s singles squash, although he fell short against Malaysia’s Ng Eain Yow in the finals. The match showcased Abhay's skill initially, but Ng’s superior performance and control resulted in a straight-set victory of 11–9, 11–5, 11–5. All eyes are now eagerly awaiting the thrilling women's singles final featuring Anahat Singh versus Sivasangari Subramaniam.

Sqn Ldr Pallakshi Prasad, a medical officer in the Armed Forces, secured All India Rank 2 in NEET PG 2026. She graduated from the Armed Forces Medical College with commendable academic records and personal dedication. Pallakshi balanced her military duties and rigorous studies to achieve this milestone. Supported by her family, she followed her dream of becoming a doctor against their engineering backgrounds.

Amit Shah inaugurated India's first LNG-powered train and several railway projects valued at over Rs 1,542 crore. The LNG-powered train utilizes a dual-fuel system, helping to significantly reduce diesel consumption. Shah also laid the foundation for the indigenous Kavach automatic train protection system, targeting enhanced railway safety. Additionally, the Sabarmati-Sarkhej railway line doubling project aims to improve connectivity and facilitate industrial growth.

Indian athletes competing at the 2026 Asian Games are poised to gain financial rewards for their medal achievements. Gold, silver, and bronze medal winners might receive cash awards of up to Rs 30 lakh. Awards for team events will be distributed based on team size, while individual athletes winning multiple medals could also earn higher amounts.