Amazon Layoffs Hit India: Fresh Job Cuts Across Markets Amid Great Indian Festival Sale

Poco M8x 5G Review: Battery That Gives Goals, Pixel That Brings Problems

Shayak Majumder — Fri, 9 Oct 2026 16:23:19 +0530

Poco M8x Review: The smartphone market is now obsessed with AI features, camera megapixels and processors that promise to turn every phone into a gaming console, Poco appears to have a simpler pitch for the M8x 5G: give people a battery that refuses to quit. And not just any battery. We're talking 7,900mAh. That's the kind of number that makes GennieGPT, ABP Live's in-house AI reviewer, forget every other specification on the sheet.

The Poco M8x 5G is listed at Rs 18,999 for the 4GB RAM + 128GB storage variant and Rs 20,999 for the 6GB + 128GB version. It also brings a Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 processor, a 50MP rear camera, Android 16 and a 6.9-inch display.

But there's a catch. The display resolution is 720 × 1,600 pixels, despite the specification sheet labelling it Full HD. And at 232g, this isn't exactly a featherweight either.

So, while Gennie is busy composing a love letter to the battery, I'm going to ask the more important question: What exactly are you sacrificing to get all that endurance?

ALSO READ: Oppo F35 Pro Review: The Smartphone Equivalent Of A Swiss Army Knife

Poco M8x 5G Review: Quick Pointers

What Works:

7,900mAh battery is the headline attraction
Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 for everyday smartphone tasks
128GB storage with a dedicated memory card slot
50MP rear camera with multiple shooting modes
Protective case and charging adapter included in the box (at this price)

What Doesn't

720 × 1,600-pixel resolution on a 6.9-inch screen
Base model offers just 4GB RAM
50MP camera resolution tells us little about actual image quality
Bluetooth 5.1 is an older specification than some competing implementations
Charging speed and real-world battery endurance need verification

7,900mAh: GennieGPT Has Found Its Religion

✨ GennieGPT: “SEVEN THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED! This phone has more stamina than a marathon runner on an energy drink! Charge it once and forget where you kept the charger!”

Shayak: That's a lot of enthusiasm for a battery you haven't tested. The Poco M8x 5G's 7,900mAh battery is easily its most interesting specification. At this price, a battery of that capacity gives the phone a clear identity: it's built to appeal to people who prioritise endurance over chasing the latest performance numbers.

Think commuters who spend hours travelling, people who stream videos throughout the day, delivery workers who depend on their phones, or anyone who finds charging their device twice a day deeply irritating.

Battery capacity is only one part of the equation. Screen brightness, processor efficiency, network reception, software optimisation and how you use your phone all influence endurance. A 7,900mAh battery gives Poco a substantial advantage on paper, but it doesn't automatically guarantee a particular number of days.

A 6.9-Inch Screen With A Pixel Problem

✨ GennieGPT: “6.9 inches! A giant screen! Perfect for movies, gaming, social media and watching cooking videos while you burn your dinner!”

Shayak: Finally, a use case that accurately describes half the internet. The Poco M8x 5G has a 6.9-inch display with a resolution of 720 × 1,600 pixels. That's a sizeable screen, but the resolution deserves a closer look.

The specification listing calls it Full HD. It isn't Full HD by the usual resolution standards. At 720 × 1,600 pixels, it sits in the HD+ category.

✨ GennieGPT: “But the screen is enormous! Surely more inches mean more pixels?”

Shayak: That's not how pixels work, Gennie. You can't order extra resolution by the inch. A larger display can make videos, reading and browsing more comfortable, but the resolution determines how much fine detail the panel can show. Spread the same pixel count across a larger area, and individual pixels become easier to notice.

For someone who mostly uses WhatsApp, makes calls and scrolls through social media, this may not be a deal-breaker. If you spend hours reading articles, watching high-resolution video or playing games with detailed graphics, the lower resolution deserves serious consideration.

The key question isn't whether 6.9 inches sounds impressive. It's whether you want a huge screen or a sharp one. Ideally, you'd get both.

Snapdragon 4 Gen 5: Everyday Hero Or Budget Pretender?

✨ GennieGPT: “Snapdragon 4 Gen 5! Octa-core processor! 2.4GHz clock speed! Qualcomm inside! This thing is going to eat benchmarks for breakfast!”

Shayak: Please stop feeding processors imaginary meals. The Poco M8x 5G comes with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset, an octa-core CPU clocked at up to 2.4GHz and an Adreno GPU. It runs Android 16. Those specifications point towards a phone intended for everyday use rather than a device built around flagship-level gaming performance.

For calls, messaging, browsing, video streaming and routine applications, the processor is the relevant starting point. But we don't have benchmark results, sustained performance tests or gaming data to establish how well the phone handles heavier workloads.

✨ GennieGPT: “Eight cores! Eight tiny employees working around the clock!”

Shayak: Performance depends on more than the number of CPU cores or their maximum clock speed. Memory capacity, software optimisation, graphics performance and thermal behaviour also matter. The RAM configurations are worth considering, too. The base model comes with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, while the higher variant offers 6GB RAM and 128GB storage.

If you tend to keep multiple apps open, the 6GB version is the one I'd investigate first. But I'd want to see real-world multitasking tests before making a definitive recommendation.

The 50MP Camera Has Entered The Chat

✨ GennieGPT: “50MP rear camera! HDR! Night Mode! Portraits! Ultra HD! Time-lapse! Dual Video! Shayak, we have a Hollywood production studio!”

Shayak: The Poco M8x 5G sports a 50MP rear camera and an LED flash. Its advertised camera modes include HDR, Portrait, Night Mode, Google Lens, time-lapse, watermarking, live movements and Dual Video.

That's a reasonably broad collection of shooting options for everyday photography. The presence of Night Mode and HDR is useful for those who want iPhone-y photos, while Google Lens can help identify objects, recognise text and search for information using the camera, which I find pretty handy and appreciate having it around.

232 Grams: That's A Lot Of Smartphone

✨ GennieGPT: “A 6.9-inch display, a 7,900mAh battery and a 232g body! It's a smartphone with superhero proportions!”

Shayak: Or a smartphone that wants you to remember leg day. The dimensions are 170.12mm in height, 78.43mm in width and 8.8mm in thickness. It weighs 232g. That combination makes the M8x 5G a substantial device. The large battery and screen may be useful, but they also come with physical trade-offs.

If you use your phone mostly with two hands, watch a lot of videos or need a large screen for reading, the size could work in your favour. If you prefer compact phones or spend hours holding your device in one hand, the weight is worth thinking about.

✨ GennieGPT: “You get a huge battery!”

Shayak: Yes, and you also get to carry it everywhere.

This is the fundamental bargain behind big-battery phones. More capacity can mean less time hunting for a charger, but the device still has to live in your pocket, sit in your hand and accompany you through the day.

Whether that trade-off is worthwhile depends on your priorities.

✨ GennieGPT: “Android 16! A dedicated memory card slot! Bluetooth! Dual SIM! This phone is practically a Swiss Army knife!”

Shayak: Let's not get carried away. The Poco M8x 5G comes with Android 16 out of the box, 128GB internal storage and a dedicated memory card slot. That last feature is genuinely useful for people who store large photo libraries, music collections or downloaded videos on their devices.

A dedicated slot means you can expand storage without having to sacrifice a SIM slot, according to the supplied specifications.

Connectivity includes 5G, dual SIM, Wi-Fi, USB Type-C, OTG support, GPS and Bluetooth 5.1. The device also includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, proximity sensor, ambient light sensor, accelerometer and electronic compass.

Bluetooth 5.1 is functional, but it isn't a headline-grabbing specification in itself. What matters more is how reliably the phone connects to your headphones, speakers, car system and other accessories.

The supplied listing also says the box includes a charging adapter, Type-C USB cable, SIM eject tool, quick-start guide, warranty card and protective case. There's no headset included

Rs 18,999 Or Rs 20,999: Which Variant Makes Sense?

✨ GennieGPT: “Rs 18,999 for the base model and Rs 20,999 for the top model! A difference of just Rs 2,000! This is a mathematical triumph!”

Shayak: It's a price difference, Gennie. We haven't discovered a new branch of mathematics. The listed pricing is straightforward:

Rs 18,999: 4GB RAM + 128GB storage
Rs 20,999: 6GB RAM + 128GB storage

Both variants offer the same internal storage capacity. The difference is the additional 2GB RAM in the more expensive model.

If you're considering the phone for basic tasks, the base variant might be sufficient. But if you plan to use it for several years, keep multiple applications open or switch frequently between demanding apps, I'd lean towards examining the 6GB version first.

ALSO READ: Redmi Note 17 Pro Review: Who Needs A Power Bank When You Have This?

Poco M8x Review: Final Verdict

The Poco M8x 5G is a phone with one very clear ambition: make battery anxiety somebody else's problem. A 7,900mAh battery gives it an identity in a market where many budget smartphones look remarkably similar on paper. Add a Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 processor, Android 16, expandable storage and a 50MP rear camera, and you have the foundations of a practical everyday smartphone.

But the rest of the package matters.

The 6.9-inch display sounds generous until you look at its 720 × 1,600-pixel resolution. The 232g weight is a reminder that enormous batteries have physical consequences. And while the 50MP camera offers multiple shooting modes, the camera quality works great under bright daylight, but make things dimmer and darker, and you will certainly struggle.

Think of the Poco M8x 5G as the friend who packs enough food for a three-day trek but forgets to check whether the shoes fit. The preparation is impressive. The details still matter.

Should You Buy The Poco M8x 5G?

Yes, potentially, if battery capacity is your biggest priority, you prefer a large screen and your everyday usage revolves around calls, messaging, browsing and streaming.
Maybe, if you want a dependable all-rounder. The processor, camera quality, charging speed and real-world endurance need to be assessed before making a confident recommendation.
No, if you value a sharp display, a lightweight phone, demanding gaming performance or verified camera quality above battery capacity.

IT Stocks Today: TCS Leads 3.3% Nifty IT Rally As Investors Shrug Off US Green-Card Curbs

Dalal Street Investment Journal (DSIJ) — Fri, 9 Oct 2026 15:21:44 +0530

IT stocks rallied on Friday, October 9, 2026, with the Nifty IT index rising around 3.3 per cent Intraday as investors responded positively to TCS' September-quarter results and looked past fresh US restrictions on employment-based green-card processing. TCS shares rose as much as 5.4 per cent, while other major IT names including Infosys, Wipro, HCLTech and Tech Mahindra also traded higher.

TCS Results Set The Tone

TCS became the first major Indian IT company to report Q2 FY27 results, giving investors an early indication of the sector's demand environment. The company reported a 15 per cent year-on-year rise in net profit to Rs 13,884 crore, while revenue increased 11.2 per cent to Rs 73,188 crore.

More importantly for the market, TCS maintained its operating margin at 24 per cent despite continued investment in artificial intelligence. Its annualised AI revenue rose to USD 3.1 billion, crossing 10 per cent of total revenue, while total contract value stood at USD 9.6 billion. The results have helped ease some of the concerns that had weighed on IT stocks in recent months, particularly around AI-driven changes to traditional technology services.

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US Green-Card Restrictions Fail To Derail The Rally

The IT sector is also dealing with a fresh development in the US.

The US government has suspended several technology companies, including TCS, Infosys, Wipro, HCLTech and Cognizant, from the Permanent Labour Certification (PERM) programme. PERM is an important step for employers seeking employment-based green cards for foreign workers. The US Department of Labor said it would stop accepting and processing new and pending applications involving the affected companies.

Despite this, investors have not treated the move as an immediate earnings threat. TCS said its PERM applications had been in the single digits over the past two years and that the suspension was not expected to materially affect its workforce strategy or client engagements. The company also reiterated plans to hire 15,000 people in the US over the next five years, with local hiring forming a major part of its strategy.

IT Stocks Get Relief After Heavy Selling

The rally also comes after a difficult period for technology stocks. The Nifty IT index had fallen sharply in 2026 amid concerns over AI disruption, weak discretionary technology spending and uncertainty around US immigration policies. The index was down about 26 per cent for the year, according to reports on Friday.

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That steep correction has left investors more willing to respond to positive developments. TCS' results, particularly the stable margin and strong AI revenue, provided the sector with a reason to recover. The broader market also bounced back after Thursday's heavy sell-off. The Nifty 50 and Sensex were both higher in Friday's morning trade, adding to the positive tone across sectors. What Investors Will Watch Next The focus now shifts to the upcoming results from other major IT companies.

Their revenue growth, deal wins, margins and commentary on AI spending will determine whether Friday's move develops into a broader sector recovery or remains a relief rally. For now, TCS has given the IT sector a much-needed positive trigger. The US immigration issue remains a risk, but investors appear to be focusing more on actual business performance and the industry's growing exposure to AI-led technology spending.

(“Disclaimer: This article uses information originally published by Dalal Street Investment Journal (DSIJ). The views expressed are those of the original authors and not necessarily of ABP Network Pvt. Ltd. This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, financial, legal or tax advice. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and/or consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be treated as investment advice. ABP Network, its employees and associates shall not be responsible or liable for any losses or damages arising directly or indirectly from the use of or reliance on this article or any information contained herein.”)

Beyond Megapixels: How To Read A Camera Spec Sheet During Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026

Shayak Majumder — Fri, 9 Oct 2026 13:41:37 +0530

A camera listing is full of numbers, and not all of them matter equally. With Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026 now live, here is a plain guide to the specifications that actually shape your photos and videos, using Canon's current entry-level cameras as examples.

Sensor Size Matters More Than Megapixels

A larger sensor generally gathers more light, which helps in dim rooms and gives smoother background blur. The Canon EOS R100 and EOS R50 both use APS-C sensors of about 24 megapixels, so their resolution is almost identical.

The difference lies in the processor, autofocus and video features, not in how many pixels the sensor has. Canon's PowerShot V1 uses a smaller 1.4-inch type sensor of 22.3 megapixels, a trade-off for its pocketable body.

Autofocus And Video Decide The Experience

Autofocus determines how many of your shots are sharp, especially of children, pets or sport. Canon lists Dual Pixel CMOS AF II on the EOS R50, along with uncropped 4K video oversampled from 6K at 30 fps and continuous shooting of up to 15 frames per second with the electronic shutter.

The EOS R100 offers 6.5 frames per second and cropped 4K video at up to 24 fps, which is enough for casual use. If you plan to shoot video, check whether 4K is cropped, since a crop narrows the field of view.

Lens And Mount Shape Your Future Choices

Most cameras in this range ship with an 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 kit lens, which is versatile but lets in limited light. Canon's RF mount, used by the R100, R50 and R50 V, has a growing range of lenses, so a fast prime can be added later for portraits and low light.

The R50 V kit comes with a 14-30mm power zoom aimed at vlogging, so the kit lens should match how you shoot. Always check whether a listing is a kit or body only.

Turn Specs Into A Shortlist

Write down your main use, whether family photos, travel, vlogging or sport, and pick the two specifications that matter most for it. Then compare prices on Amazon, where the EOS R100 kit is listed at Rs 44,989 and the EOS R50 V kit at Rs 67,990.

Amazon has confirmed a 10 per cent instant discount on eligible SBI credit and debit cards, with caps and minimum order values.

You can explore Canon cameras on Amazon and confirm the final payable amount, seller and warranty before you order.

Canon Camera Deals On Amazon Right Now: EOS R100 At Rs 44,989, EOS R50 V At Rs 67,990, More

Shayak Majumder — Fri, 9 Oct 2026 13:32:08 +0530

Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026 is now live, and Canon's camera range is part of the action. Here are four Canon cameras to consider, ordered by price, with the listings we could confirm and what each one is best for.

Best For Beginners: Canon EOS R100 At Rs 44,989

Amazon lists the EOS R100 kit with the RF-S 18-45mm lens at Rs 44,989 against an MRP of Rs 64,995, a discount of 31 per cent. It has a 24.1 megapixel APS-C sensor and shoots cropped 4K video, which suits family photos, travel and learning the basics. It is the simplest way into Canon's RF mount.

Best For Vloggers: Canon EOS R50 V At Rs 67,990

The EOS R50 V kit with the RF-S 14-30mm power zoom is listed at Rs 67,990 on Amazon's festival page, against an MRP of Rs 79,995. Canon India lists internal 10-bit 4K recording with Canon Log 3, and the body adds a flip-out screen and record buttons for solo creators. There is no viewfinder, so it is built for video first.

Best Step-Up Option: Canon EOS R10 With 18-150mm Lens

The EOS R10 with the 18-150mm lens is tracked at Rs 1,07,990 on Amazon, with the price last changing on October 8. It uses a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor, and the longer zoom range makes it a flexible one-lens kit for travel and events. It costs more than the R100 and R50 V, so it suits buyers who want a step up in stills capability.

Best Pocket Option: Canon PowerShot V1 At Rs 1,47,479

The PowerShot V1 is listed at Rs 1,47,479 against an MRP of Rs 1,51,479. It pairs a 1.4-inch type sensor with a fixed zoom lens in a body small enough to carry all day. It costs more than twice as much as the EOS R50 V kit, so it makes sense mainly for travellers who value size over lens choice. A price tracker lists the Amazon offer as imported, so check the seller and warranty.

Check The Offer Before You Pay

Amazon has confirmed a 10 per cent instant discount on eligible SBI credit and debit cards, and Prime members can get up to 10 per cent extra benefits, though caps and minimum order values apply. Check whether the listing is a kit or body only, what is included in the box, and whether the seller is authorised with an Indian warranty.

You can check Canon camera deals on Amazon and compare final payable prices before you order.

Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026: Best Smartphone Deals By Budget, From Rs 13,999 To Rs 84,999

Shayak Majumder — Fri, 9 Oct 2026 12:41:10 +0530

Amazon's Great Indian Festival 2026 is now live, and smartphones are among the biggest draws. Amazon is offering exchange savings of up to Rs 70,000, no-cost EMI starting at Rs 2,944 a month and coupon savings of up to Rs 7,500, along with a 10 per cent instant discount on eligible SBI cards. Here are the picks worth a look at each budget, using prices Amazon has listed.

Budget Phones Under Rs 25,000

Redmi 15C 5G Prime Edition (4GB+128GB) is listed at Rs 15,999, the Lava Bold N4 Pro (6GB+128GB) at Rs 13,999 and the Samsung Galaxy M17e 5G (4GB+128GB) at Rs 16,999. The OnePlus N6 (4GB+128GB) is at Rs 21,999, while the iQOO Z11xa 5G (8GB+128GB) at Rs 24,999 offers more memory for the money.

At this level, look at battery size, software update promises and whether the phone has 5G bands that suit your network.

Mid-Range Phones From Rs 26,999 To Rs 49,999

The OnePlus CE6 Lite (8GB+128GB) is at Rs 26,999, the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G (8GB+128GB) at Rs 31,999 and the OnePlus Nord CE6 (8GB+128GB) at Rs 33,999.

Moving up, the OPPO F35 5G is at Rs 38,999, the OnePlus Nord 6 (8GB+256GB) at Rs 42,999, the OPPO F35 Pro 5G at Rs 45,999 and the iQOO 15R (8GB+256GB) at Rs 46,499. The OnePlus 13s (12GB+256GB) sits at Rs 49,999, a compact flagship in this range.

Premium Phones Above Rs 50,000

The Xiaomi 17 (12GB+512GB) is listed at Rs 59,999 and the OPPO Reno16 5G (8GB+256GB) at Rs 60,299. Apple's iPhone 16 (128GB) is at Rs 71,999, while the vivo X300 FE 5G (12GB+256GB) is at Rs 80,999, the OnePlus 15 (12GB+256GB) at Rs 81,999 and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (12GB+256GB) at Rs 84,999.

For foldable buyers, the Galaxy Z Fold7 5G starts at Rs 1,29,999.

Check The Final Price Before You Order

Prices can change during the sale, and the listed figures may include coupons or bank offers, so open the product page and check the final payable amount. Exchange values depend on your old phone's condition, and caps and minimum order values apply to bank offers.

Confirm the exact variant, storage and colour, and check the seller and return window.

You can browse mobile phone deals on Amazon and compare the phones on your shortlist before you buy.

Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026 Headphone Deals: Sony WH-1000XM6 At Rs 34,920, JBL At Rs 2,799, More

Shayak Majumder — Fri, 9 Oct 2026 12:31:22 +0530

Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026 is now live, and audio gear is one of the easier places to save if you know what to look for. Here is a short buying guide and a list of picks from Sony, Apple and JBL, with the latest prices we could confirm.

How To Choose Before You Compare Prices

Start with where you will use your headphones. Over-ear headphones with active noise cancellation suit commutes, flights and long work sessions, while true wireless earbuds are lighter and easier to carry. Check battery life, the number of microphones for calls, and whether the device connects to two devices at once. Android users who care about sound quality should look for support for high-resolution codecs such as LDAC, while iPhone users benefit from the tight integration of Apple's own earbuds. Fit matters too, since a comfortable pair gets used far more often than a better-sounding one that hurts after an hour.

Top Headphone And Earbud Picks In The Sale

Sony WH-1000XM6 at Rs 34,920: Amazon lists Sony's flagship noise-cancelling headphones at Rs 34,920, against their Rs 39,990 launch price in India, a saving of Rs 5,070. They use 12 microphones for noise cancellation and calls, support LDAC, fold for travel and are rated for up to 40 hours of battery life.

Apple AirPods Pro 3 (launch price Rs 25,900): Apple's earbuds add heart-rate sensing, noise cancellation that delivers twice the noise reduction of AirPods Pro 2, IP57 water resistance and up to 8 hours of battery with noise cancellation on. Price trackers show prices between about Rs 23,900 and Rs 25,900, so check the live listing and any card offer.

JBL Vibe Beam 2 at Rs 2,799: A budget option for everyday listening, listed at Rs 2,799 in the sale, which makes it a sensible second pair for the gym or travel.

Boult x Mustang headphones at Rs 1,499: The lowest entry price on the list, suited to casual listening.

Sony's WF-1000XM6 earbuds, launched in India at Rs 29,990 in August, are another option for noise cancelling in an earbud, but check the live price.

Check The Offer Before You Pay

Amazon has confirmed a 10 per cent instant discount on eligible SBI credit and debit cards, and Prime members can get up to 10 per cent extra benefits, though caps and minimum order values apply. Before you order, compare the final payable amount, confirm the seller and warranty, and read the return policy, since audio products can differ in fit and sound from what you expect.

You can browse headphones from JBL, Apple, Sony and more on Amazon and note today's price for your shortlist.

US Green Card Curbs: TCS Plans 15,000 Local Hires Despite PERM Suspension

Sakshi Arora — Fri, 9 Oct 2026 10:37:11 +0530

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has played down the potential operational impact of the US government's latest immigration action, saying its plans to recruit locally and serve customers in the country remain unchanged. The company said it had filed only a single-digit number of applications under the US green card programme over the past two years, limiting the immediate significance of the suspension for its workforce strategy.

The clarification comes as Washington steps up scrutiny of how technology companies use immigration programmes to recruit foreign professionals. TCS is among eight companies barred from filing or advancing cases under the Permanent Labour Certification Programme (PERM), a route employers use to sponsor eligible foreign workers for permanent residency.

Despite the restriction, TCS has reiterated its intention to add 15,000 employees in the US over the next five years. The company says its approach is built around local recruitment, including campus hiring, rather than relying on the PERM route to shape its workforce.

15,000 US Jobs Still Planned As TCS Emphasises Local Recruitment

The number of PERM applications filed by TCS in recent years is central to its response. In its statement, the company said the count had remained in single digits over the past two years and that it therefore did not expect the suspension to affect its workforce strategy or customer engagements.

TCS said it would comply with any directive from the US Department of Labour. It also pointed to its presence across 31 offices and delivery centres in the country, where it has built a significant local workforce.

The planned addition of 15,000 employees over five years is part of the company's stated effort to expand that base. Its response places the emphasis on recruitment within the US as the government increases scrutiny of immigration pathways used by large technology and outsourcing firms.

Also Read : Share Markets Sigh In Relief As Oil Prices Ease: Sensex Over 200 Points Up, Nifty Above 22,300

What The PERM Suspension Means For The Companies

The US Department of Labour's decision covers TCS, Infosys, Wipro, HCL, Cognizant, Capgemini, Microsoft and Adobe. Labour Secretary Keith Sonderling announced the action on Thursday alongside Vice President JD Vance and Attorney General Todd Blanche, under the US Anti-Fraud Task Force.

The department will not accept new permanent labour certification applications involving the named companies or process pending applications, Sonderling said. He also cited multiple active federal investigations in explaining the inclusion of Microsoft and Adobe.

PERM is a step in the employment-based green card process. The suspension therefore affects the named companies' ability to pursue permanent labour certification for eligible foreign workers through this route. It is distinct from a blanket suspension of the H-1B visa programme.

Sonderling defended the action by pointing to the scale of foreign-worker requests made by the companies. He said that since 2009, they had collectively requested nearly three million foreign workers, received more than 230,000 H-1B visa approvals and obtained over 100,000 permanent labour certifications.

He alleged that the programmes had contributed to hundreds of thousands of jobs being taken from American workers. These assertions are the US administration's stated rationale for the crackdown.

Nasscom Says Skilled Talent Mobility Should Be Viewed Separately

For India's technology industry, the distinction between permanent residency and temporary work visas is an important part of the response. Nasscom said the latest decision concerns a specific immigration route and reiterated that immigration and skilled talent mobility should not be treated as interchangeable issues.

The industry body noted that US employers have historically used H-1B visas to address short-term skill gaps. It also said Indian technology companies had reduced their reliance on these visas in recent years while increasing local hiring and building larger workforces in the US.

Nasscom argued that Indian IT firms contribute to the US economy through their work with a majority of Fortune 500 companies, helping businesses innovate and grow while generating local jobs. It added that the number of employees moving from H-1B status to permanent residency through PERM was relatively limited.

The association said Indian technology companies operate in more than 80 countries and have consistently committed to complying with local laws and regulatory requirements. It expressed confidence that firms would continue to follow the applicable rules in the US.

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Why The US Move Matters For Indian IT

The US is the largest market for India's technology industry, making changes to employment-based immigration rules an important consideration for companies that serve American clients. Tighter scrutiny of work visas and higher costs for H-1B applicants have added to the challenges facing firms that move skilled professionals across borders.

The latest PERM suspension adds uncertainty around one route to permanent residency, even as TCS maintains that it does not expect a material impact on its plans. The company's stated reliance on local hiring provides the context for that position, while Nasscom has sought to distinguish the green card process from the broader role of skilled professionals in meeting US employers' talent needs.

Separately, Vance announced an investigation into the J-1 visa programme for research scholars used by nine universities, including Yale, Harvard, Stanford and Caltech. The announcement signals that the administration's scrutiny extends beyond the technology companies named in the PERM action.

PM Modi Pitches 6G, AI, Cybersecurity As Next Digital Frontier: Decoding His India Mobile Congress Address

Shayak Majumder — Thu, 8 Oct 2026 13:18:23 +0530

India's telecom story is moving beyond the rapid expansion of 5G, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi using the India Mobile Congress 2026 platform to outline a broader technology roadmap centred on 6G, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity and advanced digital infrastructure.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 10th India Mobile Congress at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi on Thursday, October 8, Modi said India's digital transformation has fundamentally changed the role of the mobile phone. What began primarily as a communication device, he said, has evolved into an important platform for governance, payments, content creation and access to digital services.

The Prime Minister also pointed to the dramatic changes in India's mobile ecosystem over the last decade, including substantially higher data consumption and significantly lower costs for users.

Prime Minister @narendramodi addresses the India Mobile Congress (IMC) at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi. PM Modi says, "Today is October 8. This is a special day for India. We celebrate this day as Air Force Day. I salute all our brave air warriors and extend my greetings to the country on Air Force Day..." #IMC2026 #IndiaMobileCongress #Technology #Innovation @DoT_India @PIB_India
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) October 8, 2026

From 5G Expansion To The 6G Era

India's 5G network has now expanded to every district, according to Modi, with more than 5.5 lakh 5G base stations deployed across the country.

The Prime Minister also said mobile internet speeds have increased tenfold since 2022, when India began its 5G rollout. The India Mobile Congress itself played a role in that journey, with the technology being launched from the event's platform.

Looking back at the expansion of the network, Modi said, "In 2023, I spoke about India's transition from 5G rollout to 5G reach-out."

The focus is now shifting towards the technologies expected to define the next stage of connectivity. Alongside 6G, the government is placing artificial intelligence, semiconductor production and emerging technologies at the heart of India's digital growth ambitions.

The emphasis also extends to domestic manufacturing, with India seeking to strengthen its position in the production of mobile phones, telecom equipment and other electronics.

Mobile Phones Become A Digital India Building Block

The scale of India's digital transformation, Modi said, can be understood through the changing importance of mobile phones in everyday life.

Rather than remaining limited to voice calls and messaging, smartphones have become gateways to government services, financial transactions, digital content and other online services.

"Through the Digital India initiative, we resolved to change this situation, with the mobile phone at the centre of this transformation. This has been a major effort towards the democratisation of technology," PM Modi said.

He added that telecom infrastructure and policy reforms have helped accelerate this shift.

"Over the past 10-12 years, the mobile phone has emerged not only as a means of modern communication, but also as an important tool for good governance. It has remained at the core of our Digital India vision," PM Modi said.

The comments underline the government's effort to position connectivity not merely as a communications service, but as foundational infrastructure for India's wider digital economy.

Cyber Fraud Emerges As A Major Digital Challenge

Greater connectivity also brings a larger security challenge. As smartphones increasingly handle financial transactions, personal information and communications, Modi stressed that digital expansion must be accompanied by stronger safeguards.

"Phone and network security are our top priorities," he said. "An average citizen does not think in the language of technical protocols. When they receive a call, they should know who is calling. When they make a digital payment, they must feel assured that their money is safe and their personal data is secure."

The Prime Minister also argued that tackling cybercrime requires countries to work together because attacks can cross multiple jurisdictions.

"Cybercriminals do not recognise borders. A person sitting in one country can commit a crime in a third country, using resources from a second country. To tackle this, it is absolutely essential that we work together to establish a global framework for cybersecurity," he urged.

The remarks place cybersecurity and consumer trust alongside connectivity and innovation as key components of India's digital agenda.

IMC 2026 Broadens Its Technology Portfolio

The scale of this year's India Mobile Congress also reflects the expanding definition of the telecom and technology sectors.

IMC 2026 has been organised around four broad themes: Srishti: Building the Future; Samvardhan: Fueling Growth; Sashakt: Expanding Opportunities; and Suraksha: Strengthening Trust.

The exhibition and conference programme covers areas including 5G and 6G, AI-driven networks, semiconductors, non-terrestrial networks, cybersecurity and quantum communication. Enterprise transformation, electronics manufacturing, circular economy and ESG are also part of the event's established technology focus.

Four additional areas have been introduced this year: smart mobility, stadium experiences, industrial robotics and transport technology.

Together, these segments point to a technology ecosystem that is increasingly moving beyond conventional telecom infrastructure. Connectivity, AI, automation, electronics manufacturing and digital security are becoming interconnected parts of India's next phase of technological development.

Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026 Now Live: How To Refresh Your Home Without Overspending

Shayak Majumder — Thu, 8 Oct 2026 12:33:47 +0530

The wait is over: Amazon Great Indian Festival 2026 has begun, with the sale open to all customers on Amazon.in from October 8. With Dhanteras on November 6 and Diwali's main day on November 8, home décor and furnishings are natural places to start for anyone planning a refresh before guests arrive.

What Amazon Is Offering

Amazon says small and medium businesses are offering up to 60 per cent off on home décor and furnishings, while its Karigar and Saheli programme, which features artisans and women entrepreneurs, lists up to 75 per cent off on selected furniture and home décor.

Amazon Bazaar promises up to 70 per cent off on home and kitchen products along with up to Rs 100 cashback on everyday picks, and one listing highlighted is a Jaipuri cotton single bedsheet with a pillow cover at Rs 99. Home appliances carry discounts of up to 65 per cent, with instant bank discounts of up to Rs 15,000.

These are maximum discounts, so actual savings vary by product.

How To Choose Décor & Furnishings

Measure before you buy. Note the dimensions of the wall, window or bed, then compare them with the product's size chart, since a curtain or bedsheet that looks right in photographs can be the wrong fit. For fabrics, read the material description and recent reviews on colour, shrinkage and feel, and remember that handmade pieces from artisans may vary slightly from the listing.

For furniture, check the delivery and assembly terms and the return policy. If you light diyas or candles, keep them away from curtains and other flammable fabrics.

Check The Final Price Before You Pay

A discount percentage tells you little without a baseline, so note the price of the items on your shortlist and compare the final payable amount after coupons and card offers. Amazon has confirmed a 10 per cent instant discount on eligible SBI credit and debit cards, and Prime members can get up to 10 per cent extra benefits, though caps and minimum order values apply.

Flipkart's Big Billion Days follows on October 9, so it is worth comparing prices on both platforms.

You can browse home deals on Amazon now and confirm the seller, delivery date and return window before you order.

Amazon Layoffs Hit India: Fresh Job Cuts Across Markets Amid Great Indian Festival Sale

Shayak Majumder — Thu, 8 Oct 2026 12:11:35 +0530

Amazon has reportedly begun another round of workforce reductions, affecting employees in India, the US and the UK as the e-commerce giant continues to reorganise parts of its retail operations. The latest job cuts come during the company's Great Indian Festival sale, adding another layer of uncertainty for employees at a time when Amazon is actively promoting its biggest shopping event in India.

According to a Business Insider report, fewer than 1,000 white-collar positions have been impacted globally in the latest round. Amazon has acknowledged the workforce reduction, describing it as involving a "small number" of roles.

The company said the changes are concentrated largely within its Stores business, the division responsible for its core e-commerce operations. Employees reportedly began discussing the layoffs through internal communication platforms, including Slack.

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Amazon Layoffs Affect Multiple Retail Teams

The latest job cuts are spread across several functions rather than being confined to a single department. Teams involved in customer service, selling partner services and marketplace support have reportedly been affected in India and other markets.

Engineering positions supporting Amazon's retail operations have also been impacted, according to reports.

The development follows a much larger restructuring effort that has been underway at Amazon. Between late 2025 and January 2026, the company eliminated approximately 30,000 corporate positions as part of efforts to streamline its organisational structure and lower costs.

While the newest round is significantly smaller, it indicates that Amazon's restructuring exercise is continuing across parts of the business.

AI Push Adds To Amazon's Changing Workforce Strategy

Amazon's workforce changes are also taking place as the company accelerates its investment in artificial intelligence.

The company is preparing to commit substantial resources to AI infrastructure, including data centres, specialised chips and other technology required to expand its capabilities. Amazon is expected to spend around $220 billion across these areas.

The shift towards AI is influencing how major technology companies allocate employees and resources. For Amazon, the latest reductions appear to be part of a broader effort to reshape teams and direct investment towards areas considered strategically important for future growth.

Amazon Continues To Expand In India

Despite the latest job cuts, Amazon's India operations continue to receive significant investment. The company recently opened a new campus in Bengaluru, describing the facility as its second-largest office in Asia.

Spread across 1.1 million square feet, the campus is expected to accommodate more than 7,000 employees working across areas including e-commerce, payments, technology and seller services.

That expansion suggests the latest layoffs should not necessarily be interpreted as Amazon reducing its overall presence in India. Instead, the cuts indicate a redistribution of roles and resources as the company changes the structure of its operations.

The timing is particularly notable as Amazon's Great Indian Festival continues to drive attention towards its India business. The latest workforce reduction therefore highlights the contrast between Amazon's aggressive investment and sales ambitions in the country and its simultaneous efforts to control costs and reorganise its workforce.