Top News Today (17 August): India, World, Economy & Odisha

India

1. Vimal Elaichi Ad: FDA Issues Notices to Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has issued show-cause notices to Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff over Vimal Elaichi advertisements. The regulator alleges the campaigns indirectly promote prohibited pan masala products and seeks explanations, agreements and content removal.

2. India Must Stop Seeking Foreign Validation, Says Sanjeev Sanyal

Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council member Sanjeev Sanyal has urged India to shed its colonial mindset and stop seeking foreign validation. He criticized dependence on foreign journals and certifications, arguing that Indian institutions and businesses should develop confidence and establish standards.

World

3. Tarique Rahman Sets Sheikh Hasina Extradition as Condition for India Visit

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said any strategic engagement or visit to India would depend on New Delhi first extraditing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina is wanted in Bangladesh to face legal proceedings, making extradition a condition for engagement.

4. Indonesia Earthquake Kills Over 50, Rescue Operations Underway

A powerful earthquake struck Indonesia, causing widespread structural damage and killing more than 50 people, according to reports. Rescue teams are searching affected areas for survivors while authorities assess damage, provide emergency assistance and coordinate relief operations across affected communities.

Economy

5. US Oil Reserves Hit 40-Year Low, Raising Energy Security Concerns

US strategic and commercial oil reserves have fallen sharply, raising concerns about energy security and economic resilience. Analysts warn that prolonged global supply disruptions could put pressure on fuel markets, inflation and economic activity if Washington’s stockpiles remain under strain.

6. India Can Become a $20 Trillion Economy by 2036: Equirus

Equirus has proposed a 20-step reform roadmap for India to become a $20 trillion economy by 2036. The plan calls for faster nominal growth, a larger services sector, railway reforms, fuel under GST, more global capability centres and tax reforms.

7. Latin America Surpasses 10,000 Electric Buses Across 80 Cities

Latin America has emerged as a global leader in electric public transport, surpassing 10,000 electric buses across 80 cities in 13 countries. Santiago, São Paulo and Bogotá account for more than 7,000 zero-emission buses, helping reduce pollution and transport emissions.