New Delhi | 11 Sep 2026

Banking services across India are expected to face disruption on Friday, 11 September, after the United Forum of Bank Unions went ahead with a nationwide strike demanding implementation of a five-day banking week. With banks also closed on the second Saturday, 12 September, and Sunday, 13 September, customers dependent on branch services could face a three-day gap in regular banking operations.

Bank strike in India goes ahead over five-day working demand

The United Forum of Bank Unions, an umbrella body of major bank employee and officer unions, decided to proceed with the strike after talks with the Indian Banks’ Association and government representatives failed to produce a definite timeline for implementing five-day banking.

In an official circular issued ahead of the strike, the All India Bank Employees’ Association said the Department of Financial Services had informed union representatives that the five-day banking proposal remained under government consideration. The unions, however, declined requests to defer the industrial action in the absence of a firm decision or timeline.

The five-day banking proposal was agreed between the unions and the Indian Banks’ Association as part of the March 2024 settlement and subsequently sent to the government for approval, according to the union.

Cash, cheque and other branch services may be affected

Customers could face delays in branch-dependent services such as cash deposits and withdrawals at counters, cheque-related work, passbook updates, loan processing and other in-person transactions, depending on employee participation in the strike.

The strike does not mean that every bank branch across India is automatically closed. September 11 is not a nationwide bank holiday under the Reserve Bank of India’s holiday calendar, and individual banks have made arrangements to maintain essential operations where possible.

State Bank of India and Punjab National Bank have cautioned customers that branch operations may be affected. The banks have advised customers to use digital and alternative banking channels for essential transactions.

UPI, ATMs and online banking expected to remain available

Digital banking services including UPI, mobile banking, internet banking and ATMs are expected to remain available during the strike. SBI has also advised customers to use its digital platforms, ATMs, automated deposit-cum-withdrawal machines and customer service points where required.

However, customers requiring physical branch assistance may experience delays, particularly because the strike immediately precedes the second Saturday and Sunday.

Why bank employees are on strike

The principal demand is the introduction of a five-day working week for banks. Unions have also raised concerns over the Performance Linked Incentive scheme and several pending service-related issues.

The Department of Financial Services has informed the unions that the Performance Linked Incentive scheme for Scale IV to VIII officers for 2025-26 has been kept in abeyance and would be discussed bilaterally. Despite that development, the UFBU said the absence of progress on five-day banking remained sufficient reason to continue with the September 11 strike.

Other issues raised by the unions include recruitment, pensions, gratuity, medical insurance for retirees and other service conditions.

More bank strikes planned if dispute remains unresolved

The September 11 stoppage is part of a wider programme of industrial action announced by the UFBU. The unions have also called for a three-day nationwide strike on 28, 29 and 30 September if their demands remain unresolved.

They have further warned of an indefinite strike from 26 October. Whether those actions proceed will depend on developments in negotiations with the government and the Indian Banks’ Association.

Cupertino | 9 Sep 2026

Apple has launched its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max at its September product event in Cupertino. The iPhone Duo will start at ₹299,900 in India, while the iPhone 18 Pro range starts at ₹164,900, marking a major expansion of Apple’s premium smartphone line-up.

iPhone Duo starts at ₹299,900 in India

The iPhone Duo opens to reveal a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR folding OLED display and carries a 5.4-inch outer display for use when the device is closed. Apple says the inner screen is its largest iPhone display to date.

The foldable model is powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip and uses a vapour-chamber cooling system. It features a dual-battery architecture and Apple’s C2 modem, while iOS 27 has been adapted for the folding design and supports multitasking across the larger display.

Apple is offering the iPhone Duo in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB storage configurations. Indian prices start at ₹299,900 for 256GB, rising to ₹449,900 for the 2TB version. The phone will be available in Night Sky and Star White finishes.

Pre-orders in India are scheduled to begin at 5:30 pm IST on 16 October, with sales starting on 23 October.

“iPhone Duo is the most transformational change to iPhone since the original.”— John Ternus, Apple CEO

Foldable design brings new display and camera features

The iPhone Duo uses a Grade 5 titanium frame and hinge cover and carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. Apple says the device measures 5.2mm thick when open and weighs 254 grams.

Both displays support ProMotion with adaptive refresh rates of up to 120Hz, Always-On functionality and peak outdoor brightness of up to 3,000 nits. The inner display also uses a nano-texture finish designed to reduce reflections and make the fold less visually prominent.

The rear camera system includes a 48MP Fusion Main camera and a 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide camera. Apple has also added a 12MP Center Stage front camera and an under-display FaceTime camera for the inner screen.

Unlike Apple’s recent flagship iPhones, the Duo uses Touch ID integrated into the side button rather than Face ID. Apple says support for the USB-C Apple Pencil will arrive later in 2026. The iPhone Duo is eSIM-only worldwide.

iPhone 18 Pro adds variable-aperture camera and longer battery life

Apple also unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, powered by the same A20 Pro processor. The Pro models introduce a 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture, allowing the camera to adjust for lighting conditions and depth of field.

The iPhone 18 Pro has a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the Pro Max uses a 6.9-inch screen. Both models are available in Burgundy, Glacier, Silver and Black.

Apple says the iPhone 18 Pro Max can deliver up to 43 hours of video playback, the longest claimed battery life on an iPhone. The Pro range also introduces a redesigned Dynamic Island and a next-generation vapour chamber for sustained performance.

The iPhone 18 Pro starts at ₹164,900 in India. Pre-orders will open at 5:30 pm IST on 12 September, with availability beginning on 18 September.

Apple event also brings new Watches and AirPods

Alongside the new iPhones, Apple announced the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and AirPods 5. The event was the company’s first major product launch under chief executive John Ternus.

Apple did not introduce a standard iPhone 18 during the September event, focusing its smartphone announcements on the premium iPhone 18 Pro models and the new foldable iPhone Duo.

The iPhone Duo puts Apple directly into the foldable smartphone segment already contested by companies including Samsung and Huawei, while its ₹299,900 starting price positions it well above Apple’s conventional flagship models in India.

India | 09 Sep 2026

The official trailer for Drishyam: The Conclusion was released on Wednesday, bringing Ajay Devgn back as Vijay Salgaonkar for the final chapter of the Hindi crime-thriller franchise. The film will open in cinemas on 2 October 2026.

Drishyam: The Conclusion trailer revives the Salgaonkar case

The trailer shows Vijay and his family facing renewed scrutiny as investigators continue trying to establish the truth behind the unresolved disappearance that drove the first two films.

Tabu returns as Meera Deshmukh, who remains determined to hold Vijay accountable. Shriya Saran reprises her role as Vijay’s wife, Nandini, while Ishita Dutta returns as their elder daughter, Anju.

The footage presents the concluding film as a confrontation between Vijay’s carefully maintained account and a renewed investigation supported by additional legal and police figures.

Jaideep Ahlawat and Prakash Raj join the investigation

Jaideep Ahlawat joins the franchise as a Crime Branch superintendent of police, while Prakash Raj appears as a lawyer. Their characters strengthen the investigation against Vijay and his family as the decade-long storyline moves towards its conclusion.

Akshaye Khanna, who played investigating officer Tarun Ahlawat in Drishyam 2, does not appear in the newly released trailer. The production has not announced his return for the concluding film.

Drishyam: The Conclusion releases on 2 October

Abhishek Pathak, who directed Drishyam 2, has directed the new instalment. He co-wrote the screenplay with Aamil Keeyan Khan and Parveez Shaikh.

The film is presented by Star Studio18 and produced by Panorama Studios. Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak are credited as producers.

The 2 October release date carries narrative significance for the franchise because Vijay used events associated with that date to construct his family’s alibi in the first film. The makers have promoted the new instalment as the conclusion to Vijay Salgaonkar’s story in the Hindi series.

Cupertino | 09 Sep 2026

Apple will hold its “Surprise and shine” product event on Wednesday, with the iPhone 18 Pro series and the company’s first foldable iPhone widely expected to headline the presentation. The event begins at 10 am Pacific Time, or 10:30 pm in India.

Apple Event 2026: When and where to watch

Apple has confirmed that the event will be streamed on its official website and through the Apple TV app. The keynote is also expected to be available through Apple’s official YouTube channel.

The presentation will be Apple’s first major product event under chief executive John Ternus, who succeeded Tim Cook on 1 September. Cook now serves as executive chairman of Apple’s board.

Apple’s first foldable iPhone expected

Apple has not officially disclosed the event’s product line-up. However, reports indicate that the company could introduce its long-awaited foldable smartphone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.

The foldable device is expected to use a book-style design with an external display and a larger internal screen. Its official name, specifications, price and release date remained unconfirmed before the keynote. Reports have referred to possible names including “iPhone Ultra” and “iPhone Duo”, but Apple has announced neither.

Base iPhone 18 may not appear at September event

Unlike Apple’s traditional September launch cycle, the standard iPhone 18 is not expected to be unveiled alongside the Pro models. Industry reports suggest that Apple may introduce the base iPhone 18 later, potentially with an updated iPhone Air and iPhone 18e.

The reported change would allow Apple to separate its premium autumn releases from lower-priced models. Apple has not confirmed the delay or announced a launch schedule for the standard iPhone 18.

New Apple Watch and AirPods models also anticipated

Apple is also expected to present updated wearables and audio products, potentially including Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and new AirPods. Details remain based on pre-event reporting and should be treated as unconfirmed until Apple’s presentation.

Official specifications, Indian prices, pre-order dates and retail availability will become clear only after the keynote. Consumers should therefore avoid relying on leaked prices or purported product listings circulating before the event.

New Delhi | 09 Sep 2026

Brent crude climbed above $100 a barrel on Wednesday as escalating US-Iran attacks threatened shipping and energy supplies near the Strait of Hormuz, increasing pressure on India’s oil-import bill and raising the risk of higher petrol, diesel and LPG costs.

US-Iran conflict drives Brent crude above $100

Brent crude rose about 3% to trade above $100 a barrel for the first time in nearly six weeks, while US West Texas Intermediate crude advanced beyond $95. Prices increased after attacks involving tankers and other vessels intensified concerns about further disruption to Gulf energy shipments.

The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the market’s concerns. The International Energy Agency estimates that about 25% of global seaborne oil trade passed through the waterway in 2025, while alternative export routes have limited capacity.

Indian crude basket rises above $106

India’s Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell placed the Indian crude basket at $106.26 a barrel on 7 September. Its September average up to that date was $100.75, compared with $90.19 in August and $82.04 in July.

The increase raises costs for Indian refiners and places additional pressure on the country’s import bill. A weaker rupee compounds that burden because crude purchases are largely settled in US dollars. The rupee closed at 95.1050 against the dollar on Wednesday amid rising oil prices and wider market uncertainty.

Will petrol and diesel prices rise in India?

The crude oil surge does not automatically result in an immediate or proportionate increase in retail petrol and diesel prices. Pump prices also depend on international refined-product rates, the rupee-dollar exchange rate, freight, dealer margins, central excise duty and state taxes.

Oil marketing companies and the government may absorb part of a temporary increase through marketing margins or tax adjustments. However, if crude prices remain elevated for an extended period, pressure could build either for higher pump prices, lower taxes or financial support for fuel retailers.

No nationwide increase in Indian petrol or diesel prices had been officially announced in response to Wednesday’s market movement at the time of reporting.

LPG and inflation risks for India

India depends substantially on imported LPG, making domestic cooking-gas costs vulnerable to sustained increases in international prices and disruptions to Gulf shipping. The final retail effect would depend on import costs, government subsidy decisions and the pricing policies of oil companies.

Prolonged high crude prices could also increase transport, aviation, manufacturing and logistics costs, feeding into broader inflation. The scale of the impact will depend on how long the conflict continues, whether tanker traffic faces further restrictions and whether additional global supplies can offset losses from the region.

New Delhi | 09 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court on Wednesday questioned a Greater Noida executive magistrate’s decision to issue a ₹5 lakh peace-bond notice to Gautam Buddha University law student Akshat Tripathi, despite an earlier order protecting students from action over Cockroach Janta Party protests.

Supreme Court questions notice to Akshat Tripathi

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant raised the matter after a lawyer informed the court that Tripathi, a second-year student, had received the notice following allegations that he encouraged other students to participate in a proposed CJP demonstration.

“We are surprised; how did the magistrate dare to issue a notice when we have already annulled, and we have directed that on already registered FIRs, no action will be taken.”— Justice Surya Kant, Chief Justice of India

The bench, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, was told that the notice had subsequently been withdrawn. The Chief Justice directed the lawyer to place the relevant facts on record and said an explanation would be sought from the district administration.

Notice sought ₹5 lakh personal bond and two sureties

The notice, dated 4 September, called upon Tripathi to explain why he should not be required to execute a personal bond of ₹5 lakh, along with two sureties of the same amount, to maintain peace for six months.

Proceedings were initiated under Sections 126 and 135 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. A police report alleged that Tripathi was spreading misleading and anti-government statements and provoking students in a manner that could disturb public peace. These claims remain allegations and were denied by Tripathi.

Tripathi said he had not visited the university for three months and was working at the Allahabad High Court during July. He questioned how he could have instigated students on campus when classes had shifted online because of maintenance work.

Notice withdrawn after police review

Police said the order was revoked a day after it was issued following an examination of the allegations. Tripathi has nevertheless challenged the notice before the Supreme Court, arguing that its issuance violated the court’s 1 September ruling.

The Gautam Buddh Nagar administration separately said neither the district magistrate nor the district administration had issued such an order. Court proceedings and the student’s petition, however, attributed the notice to Executive Magistrate-III in the Greater Noida Police Commissionerate.

Earlier order protected CJP student protesters

On 1 September, the Supreme Court quashed FIRs registered against students who participated in CJP demonstrations held from 20 to 25 July, subject to an exception concerning people with criminal antecedents. The court had also directed that no penal action be taken against protected student protesters.

The Supreme Court has not yet recorded a finding of contempt against any official. Further action will depend on the documents placed before the bench and the explanation sought from the authorities.

Nagoya | 09 Sep 2026

About 400 athletes and staff were temporarily evacuated after record rainfall flooded parts of Nagoya, but officials said the 2026 Asian Games would open as scheduled on 19 September.

Nagoya floods force athletes and staff to higher ground

The athletes and officials, who were staying in temporary container-style accommodation at Nagoya’s Garden Pier area, were moved to higher ground during the heavy rain on Tuesday. They later returned safely, and no injuries were reported.

The rainfall flooded dozens of roads and homes, stranded vehicles and pedestrians, and temporarily disrupted city bus and subway services. About 3,500 residents sought shelter at emergency evacuation centres, according to reports citing local authorities.

Asian Games venues escape major damage

Rainwater entered some Asian Games facilities and several venue roofs developed leaks. Nagoya Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa said, however, that no serious damage had been identified at the venues inspected within the city.

“We are not worried about the conditions of the venues and we believe there is no problem holding the Asian Games as planned.”— Ichiro Hirosawa, Mayor of Nagoya

Hirosawa said authorities had not completed their assessment of areas outside Nagoya and therefore could not yet give a comprehensive account of conditions across every Games location.

Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games scheduled from 19 September

The 20th Asian Games will be held across Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture and other locations from 19 September to 4 October. More than 11,000 athletes representing 45 countries and regions are registered to participate.

Organisers are continuing safety inspections and preparations as the host region recovers from the flooding. Based on the information available on Wednesday, neither city authorities nor organisers had announced any postponement or change to the Games schedule.

New Delhi | 09 Sep 2026

Delhi Police arrested paying guest accommodation operator Sudhanshu on Wednesday in connection with the Satya Niketan PG collapse that killed seven people, including five students. The arrest took the number of people held in the case to five as civic authorities began demolishing an unsafe adjoining building.

Fifth arrest in Satya Niketan PG collapse investigation

Police said Sudhanshu and his business partner, Shubham Tyagi, had leased the building in August 2025 and operated the student accommodation under the name “Hostel Daze”. Tyagi remained untraced at the time of reporting.

The other arrested people are building owners Hariram Gupta and Urmila Gupta, their son Mahesh Gupta, and labour contractor Sanoj. Hariram and Urmila were remanded to 14 days’ judicial custody, while Mahesh was questioned in police custody.

Investigators are examining the roles of the owners, operators and workers connected with repairs reportedly being conducted in the basement and on the ground floor. The precise cause of the collapse has not yet been officially established.

MCD begins demolition of unsafe adjoining building

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi began a controlled, phased demolition of the building adjoining the collapsed structure after declaring it dilapidated and unsafe. Its occupants had previously been evacuated and the property sealed.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta directed the MCD to inspect PG accommodations across the capital and act against unauthorised construction. She also ordered scrutiny of building records to determine when the violations occurred and which officials had jurisdiction at the time.

Five MCD officials from the South Zone have been suspended pending an inquiry into possible administrative lapses. The suspensions do not constitute findings of guilt, and the investigation remains under way.

Delhi plans licensing and safety rules for PG facilities

The Delhi government is preparing draft legislation to regulate private hostels and PG accommodation. The proposals include municipal licences, police verification, structural and fire-safety clearances, unique registration numbers and a central public portal for registered properties and complaints.

The Delhi High Court also issued notices to the Centre, the Delhi government and Delhi University on Wednesday over a petition seeking a time-bound hostel development policy. The matter is scheduled to be heard again on 25 September alongside another petition seeking an independent investigation and regulations for hostels and PG facilities.

The Supreme Court is separately expected to consider the wider issue of regulatory compliance for unsafe and unauthorised buildings after the Satya Niketan tragedy was mentioned before it.

India | 8 Sep 2026

Credent TV has presented a special discussion exploring why people can feel disconnected from themselves despite remaining socially connected. Titled “Khud Se Door Kyon Ho Jaate Hain Hum?”, the programme addresses loneliness, emotional pressure, silent suffering, self-doubt and the search for meaningful human connection.

Released ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on 10 September, the conversation encourages viewers to recognise emotional distress, speak openly about difficult experiences and take practical steps towards rebuilding confidence and self-awareness.“

Experts Discuss Emotional Disconnection

The programme brings together Madhuri, a psychologist, life coach and life-regeneration coach; Mamta, founder of Soul Space by Mamta and a practitioner of holistic healing, Reiki, quantum healing and intuitive guidance; and Rachna Jhunjhunwala, founder of The Confidence Bay, who works as a confidence coach, educator, counsellor and mentor. Sunil SL Narnauliya is the moderator of the show.

The speakers examine how emotional burdens may remain hidden behind everyday routines and social interactions. The discussion asks why people often endure distress in silence and how hesitation, low self-belief and external pressures can gradually weaken their connection with their own needs and emotions.

The statement translates to: “Sometimes our deepest silence hides the very story that we are unable to share with anyone.” It establishes the central theme of the programme—silence does not necessarily indicate that a person is coping well.

From Self-Doubt to Confidence

A major part of the conversation focuses on the role of confidence in overcoming self-doubt. The speakers consider how individuals can transform hesitation into an effective voice and begin moving from isolation towards healthier, more meaningful relationships.

The programme also explores whether pressures associated with personal responsibilities and social expectations can be redirected towards personal fulfilment. Rather than presenting confidence as an instant solution, the discussion treats it as something that can be developed through self-awareness, honest communication and gradual action.

Encouraging People to Speak and Seek Support

Credent TV invites viewers to reflect on the first and often most difficult step required to reconnect with themselves. The programme encourages people to share their experiences and participate in conversations that reduce shame and hesitation around emotional struggles.

Discussions about loneliness and mental health require sensitivity. People experiencing persistent distress, thoughts of self-harm or an immediate crisis should contact a qualified mental-health professional, local emergency service or trusted support person without delay. Public conversations can raise awareness, but they are not substitutes for professional assessment or treatment.

Through the programme, Credent TV seeks to move the conversation from silence towards acknowledgement, support and connection. Its central message is that recognising emotional difficulty and asking for help can be meaningful first steps towards recovery and renewed self-confidence.

Jaipur | 8 Sep 2026

SRN International School in Jagatpura, Jaipur, celebrated Krishna Janmashtami with devotional performances, dance drama and colourful tableaux depicting Lord Krishna’s childhood, teachings and enduring cultural values.

Students recreate Lord Krishna’s childhood

The programme brought together students in an atmosphere of devotion and festive enthusiasm. Through songs, dances and dialogues, they presented episodes from Krishna’s childhood and conveyed messages drawn from his life and ideals.

A dance drama based on Krishna’s childhood exploits was the principal attraction. Young participants dressed as Krishna and Radha took to the stage in traditional costumes, with their expressions, movements and coordinated performances drawing appreciation from the audience.

Janmashtami tableaux transform school campus

The school campus featured tableaux portraying the birth and childhood of Lord Krishna. One installation showed young Krishna stealing butter, while another recreated scenes featuring Radha and Krishna.

The presentations combined visual storytelling with music and performance, giving students an opportunity to explore Indian mythology and cultural traditions through active participation.

Cultural programmes promote values and traditions

Principal-Director Usha Sharma extended Janmashtami greetings to the students and said Krishna’s life offers lessons in love, compassion, truth, duty and positive thinking.

She emphasised that connecting children with Indian culture and significant mythological figures is an important part of education. Cultural activities, she said, help students develop respect for the country’s traditions while strengthening values and sensitivity.

The celebration sought to move beyond entertainment by using Krishna’s childhood stories to communicate lessons about character, responsibility and cultural awareness. Students participated in the programme as performers and storytellers, turning the festival into an experiential learning activity.