Top headlines: Govt bans local lockdowns, HDFC Bank m-cap hits Rs 8-trn

HDFC Bank became the first bank in the Indian history to cross the Rs 8-trillion, Union Cabinet nod to LVB merger with DBS, and more top headlines of the day

The centre asked states to step up measures to contain the spread of coronavirus cases, suggesting they strictly enforce restrictions in containment zones, step up contact tracing and encourage "covid-appropriate" behaviour. States cannot impose local lockdowns, it said. You can read about more that story here. Our evening news wrap has more headlines.

India import hurdles hit iPhone, Xiaomi

India's tight control of quality clearances for electronic goods from China slowed the import of Apple's new iPhone model last month and held up other products made by companies like Xiaomi, according to two industry sources. Applications