How El Nino May Make India's Sugar Less Sweet and More Expensive This Year

The Hindu Downtown is launching the Made of Chennai Kolu Kondattam 2026 contest, inviting residents to submit photographs of their Navaratri Kolu displays and a personal photo, with the option to add a short video. Participants can upload up to three images of their arrangements, and entries will be judged on theme, creativity, presentation and overall appeal. Winners will be chosen from the submissions that best combine imaginative design with the traditional spirit of the festival.

A counter‑affidavit submitted to the Madras High Court says that a police investigation has uncovered evidence of a “party fund” being collected while Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi was serving as School Education Minister. The document was filed in response to the former minister’s request to have the FIR against him dismissed.

The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) warned it would leave the ruling Secular Social Justice Victory Alliance if the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) were brought into the coalition. VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan criticized the PMK and other parties, saying their supporters would never vote for an alliance that includes VCK. The PMK, meanwhile, reiterated its commitment to the National Democratic Alliance and denied any intention to join the TVK‑led government.

FGE NexantECA says that global demand for crude oil may have reached its highest point in 2025, with further growth being limited as biofuels take on a larger share of fuel consumption. The shift toward renewable fuels is reducing the need for additional crude oil, suggesting a plateau in the market.

CavinKare and the Ability Foundation have opened nominations for the 25th edition of their awards that recognize notable achievements by people with disabilities in India. Individuals can submit entries online by the end of October, and winners will receive monetary awards, a formal acknowledgment and a trophy. The program includes a top‑level award for exceptional impact and three additional awards for distinguished performance in various fields.

Sudha Yadav has been appointed as the new Governor of Karnataka by President Droupadi Murmu. She becomes the second woman to hold the position in the state, following V.S. Rama Devi. The appointment was announced alongside similar gubernatorial changes in five other states.