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A resentful letter to Santa Claus from a woke Christmas enthusiast
A child writes a scathing letter to Santa Claus, questioning his methods, motives, and relevance in the modern world. The child criticizes Santa's judgmental 'naughty or nice' binary, his outdated image, and his dubious helpers. They praise Jeff Bezos as the true 'Deliverer of Gifts' and suggest replacing Santa with 'Banta' for a more relatable experience.
View: Don't care for Christmas, but oh, for its X factor!
A traveler recounts their Christmas indifference. They recall quiet holidays in Brazil and Tonga. An Irish expat shared his island life. A Tanzanian hotel offered an unexpected musical treat. The author anticipates another unconventional Christmas, seeking open establishments amidst the festivities. They hope for another surprising encounter.
Zakir Hussain: The master percussionist who could reveal deeper truths than a million words
The soulful and inspired virtuosity of an artist like Ustad Alla Rakha Khan Saheb, his lineage and legacy, has also brought the tabla centre-stage as an independent instrument capable of immense sonic possibilities. His son, Zakir Hussain's role in achieving this transition on national and international concert prosceniums is unparalleled.
Navigating the Future: Technology's promise, pitfalls, and path forward
From communicators to drones, India's tech scene is exploding. Digital payments, AI, and biotech are transforming industries at an unprecedented pace. While risks exist, the potential for positive change, from accessible healthcare to sustainable energy, is immense. The future hinges on ensuring inclusivity and responsible innovation.
Route back to rote learning [Repeat]
Nigel Richards, a 57-year-old New Zealander and renowned Scrabble champion, won the Spanish World Scrabble Championship without knowing Spanish. He achieved this feat by memorizing the entire Spanish Scrabble dictionary. Richards, who also won the French championship using a similar method, demonstrates the power of rote learning, even in the age of AI.
'Unparliamentary' is, alas, Parliamentary
India's Parliament witnessed unruly behavior, reminiscent of a children's playground brawl. While some may dismiss this as an anomaly, it reflects a deeper issue of frustration and a decline in decorum. The incident mirrors a concerning trend in national behavior, raising questions about the effectiveness of parliamentary discourse.
Investing our time in God through meditation yields immeasurable rewards. By focusing inward, we connect with the Divine, deepening our love and understanding of life's mysteries. This spiritual awakening guides our soul's journey back to its Source, ensuring we depart this world fulfilled, having nurtured our relationship with the Divine through daily meditation.
YesMadam controversy; the need for legal right to disconnect in India
India's overworked workforce faces mounting pressure, sparking debate on the 'right to disconnect.' Recent incidents highlight the need for legislation protecting employees from excessive work hours and ensuring mental well-being, mirroring global trends.
Impact of FTAs on India's alcobev sector: Navigating challenges and opportunities
India will discuss free trade agreements with Britain and the EU in 2025. The focus will be on bulk alcohol imports. This will help Indian businesses make premium alcoholic beverages. Small and medium businesses will benefit. Exports may also increase. India's alcohol market is changing. Indian brands are strong. International brands may face challenges.
Santa's adventures bring laughter this Christmas! Stuck in chimneys? Claus-trophobia strikes! His helper battles low elf-esteem. Santa Paws delivers pet presents, while Santa Clues solves mysteries. He rides a Holly Davidson, pays jingle bills, and loves Elf-is Presley. Ocean waves greet him, and his presence is sensed through gifts.
Pets offer unconditional love and joy, enriching our lives with comfort and warmth. Their presence evokes simple joys, from a purring cat to a wagging dog. Playful antics and cuddles create moments of laughter and calm, melting away stress. These non-human companions offer profound emotional fulfillment and a sanctuary from life's chaos, recharging our spirits.
Ambedkar's in Everyone's Thought
A proposed film spotlights India's ongoing debate about B.R. Ambedkar's legacy. The home minister's remarks reignited discussions, even involving Ambedkar's grandson. Despite Ambedkar's vision of caste annihilation, the debate continues, with parliamentarians considering his perspective on contemporary issues.
India vs US: Contrasting paths in tackling TikTok's security challenges
The US Supreme Court has granted TikTok a hearing on January 10th to challenge a looming ban set for January 19th. This contrasts with India's swift 2020 ban of the platform, citing national security and data privacy concerns.
Patience is a virtue. It helps people overcome challenges. Robert Bruce showed patience and won a battle. Spiritual teachings emphasize patience. Patience brings silence and strength. It helps people handle adversity. Patience leads to greater achievements.
Why Trump must back proposed H-1B rule
The Biden administration has proposed a rule change to redefine 'US employer' for H-1B visa sponsorship, potentially allowing foreign entrepreneurs to sponsor themselves. This move aims to attract global talent, boost innovation, and strengthen the US's position in the digital and green economy.
Bridging the credit gap: The road to financial well-being in semi-urban, rural India
Over half of India's population, residing in semi-urban and rural areas, faces limited access to formal credit, forcing reliance on predatory lenders. High interest rates hinder economic growth. Transitioning to cash flow-based lending, leveraging data, and implementing risk-based pricing are crucial for expanding financial inclusion and promoting economic well-being.
Alas, no festive cheer this season
US interest rate cuts and Donald Trump's return impacted global markets. Indian equities faced pressure from foreign investors. The Reserve Bank of India may lower rates. Food prices and manufacturing are key factors. Market volatility is expected. A strong US economy and China's growth influence investments. India's market remains sensitive to trade tensions and domestic consumption.
Prioritising quality over quantity: The true test of One Nation, One Election
The Indian Parliament introduced bills for simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections (ONOE), sparking debate about its impact on the Constitution, federalism, and democracy. A Joint Parliamentary Committee will scrutinize the bills, considering factors like census, delimitation, and women's reservation.
Island nations are seeking climate change compensation from large emitters, arguing their existence is threatened by rising sea levels. However, many island nations are relatively wealthy, benefiting from the same global forces that drive emissions. Critics argue that focusing on per-capita emissions and adaptation measures like land reclamation are more relevant than compensation claims.
India's National Testing Agency to be restructured for better exams, says review panel
A government-appointed panel, led by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan, has recommended restructuring the National Testing Agency (NTA) following the NEET-UG paper leak. The panel suggests NTA focus solely on higher education entrance exams, improve internal capacity, and strengthen security measures to prevent malpractice. The recommendations aim to build a more robust and reliable testing system for India.
Donald Trump seeks tariff reciprocity with countries like India, offering potential advantages
Donald Trump's call for tariff reciprocity with India presents a potential advantage if handled strategically. While Trump's focus remains on China, India's strong trade relationship with the US and its growing role in global supply chains offer leverage. Trump's energy policies, including cheap oil and a potential end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, could further benefit India.
Step up to the plate: Inside the Jane in Antwerp, Belgium
Housed in a 19th-century chapel in Antwerp, The Jane offers a unique dining experience for up to 200 guests daily. Its dramatic interior blends the sacred and contemporary, featuring an open kitchen in the former altar. The seafood-centric set menu, including dishes like Gillardeau oysters with plankton and peach, is full of surprises.
Catering to your worst nightmares
A Kolkata couple, the Biswases, faced immense humiliation at their daughter's wedding reception when the caterer they hired for 5.9 lakh failed to show up. Left scrambling, they managed to arrange a meager meal, but many guests departed hungry. The caterer, Rangan Niyogi, with a history of similar scams, was later arrested.
Can 'One Nation, One Election' truly simplify India's electoral process?
The Indian government has proposed constitutional amendments to enable simultaneous general and state elections. This One Nation, One Election initiative aims to reduce costs and improve governance by limiting election disruptions. However, critics argue it centralizes power, potentially marginalizing regional issues and expanding the scope of presidential rule.
Be prepared for 'go back to America!'
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has listed approximately 1.45 million individuals, including 180,000 Indians, for potential deportation. Historically, Indians, particularly from Punjab, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, have sought entry into the U.S., with around 90,000 apprehensions in recent years. A potential shift in public sentiment within India may arise, with some citizens possibly opposing the return of these deportees.
Rachelle Glendon's podcast, How to Live Slow, offers advice on finding calm amidst the holiday chaos. The Living a Fomo-Free Life episode explores how to overcome the fear of missing out by using it as a tool for a more fulfilling life. Glendon suggests practical steps like limiting social media and embracing digital detoxes to prioritize activities you truly enjoy.
Staycation: Indias untapped goldmine for quick getaways and digital detoxes
The staycation industry, a niche within the leisure sector, is experiencing growth, with a projected market revenue of $758 million by 2033. Appealing particularly to the 25-34 age group, staycations offer escapes and digital detox opportunities close to home. However, India lacks sufficient 'holiday infrastructure' outside traditional tourist spots and hotels.
Our relationship with the sun is complex. We crave its warmth in winter yet shun its intensity in summer. By aligning with nature's rhythms and respecting the sun's power, we can achieve greater resilience and a more carefree existence. The sun's vital role in our solar system reminds us of our own vulnerability and interconnectedness.
HUL, don't get Unileverised: The ice cream business melted away, but whats next?
HUL boss Rohit Jawa needs to think out of the box and make HUL what it was in pre-liberalisation India, independent and free thinking; hauling the company that was once a CEO factory and a laboratory of strategic thinking -- out of a funk that it finds itself in today. Even Unilever CEO Hein Shumacher is busy putting the consumer behemoth into shape, pruning portfolios, people and premiumising, while upping sales projections.
Indias wage problem: It's not about more jobs, its about better ones
Mukesh Ambani, chairman of the 2024 ET Awards jury, asserted that India's challenge isn't job creation but low wages. Addressing this requires a multifaceted approach beyond simply generating more jobs. It necessitates investment in infrastructure, innovation, and urban development to create higher-paying jobs, alongside improving education and skilling the workforce to enable wage growth nationwide.
Trump 2.0: Why keeping Indo-US partnership on track will remain a tough job
India-US relations saw a mix of advancement and strain. President Biden boosted key initiatives. However, incidents like the indictment of an Indian official and the Adani case fueled distrust. Defense deals progressed, but challenges remain. Disagreements on Khalistan and Bangladesh further complicated the partnership.
Ustad Zakir Hussain: Master of blends and solo brilliance
Ustad Zakir Hussain, a tabla maestro, was renowned for his exceptional talent and humility. His performances emphasized tradition and collaboration, prioritizing 'sangat' (fellowship) over individual stardom. Hussain's collaborations spanned across genres and generations, blending his virtuosity with a deep respect for fellow musicians. His legacy extends globally, marked by numerous awards and a profound impact on Indian classical music.
Maharashtra Assembly Polls: Move along now, EVMs don't bite
Omar Abdullah, fresh off his electoral victory, questions the tendency to blame EVMs for losses. He highlights the hypocrisy of parties that celebrate EVM-led wins but cry foul in defeat. With two decades of EVM use and added safeguards like VVPAT, the focus should shift from baseless accusations to genuine electoral reforms.
Mind the wall when making a U-turn
Walmart scaled back its DEI initiatives. The company faced criticism for its vague response. The response recalled Zomato's controversial hiring practices. Walmart stated its commitment to saving people money. The company aims to create a sense of belonging for everyone. Walmart's actions sparked debate about corporate social responsibility.
Rumi's philosophy stresses the importance of connecting with our surroundings. He encourages us to be present in each moment. We must embrace the energy of every place. Our presence can shape the atmosphere. We can create harmony with the world. Each person holds immense potential. We are not insignificant drops in the ocean.
Paragraphs from fiction: After dark, my sweet by Jim Thompson
A thirty-three-year-old narrator initially misjudged a young woman he encountered at a bar. He perceived her as an ordinary barfly but later realized her beauty. After a brief visit to the bar, the woman, driving a station wagon, offered him a ride home, assuring him of safety despite a potential issue with someone named Bert.
Swissful MFN thinking can help...
Switzerland revoked its 'most favoured nation' tax status with India following a Supreme Court ruling requiring separate notification of MFN changes. This move acknowledges India's focus on negotiated tax agreements and strengthens its position in bilateral trade deals.
Fourth Tango in Paris to stop right steps?
France appointed its fourth PM in a year. Francois Bayrou faces a tough economic situation. Moody's downgraded France's debt rating. Bayrou needs to form a stable government. He must navigate between the far-left and far-right. A new EU-Mercosur trade deal adds to the complexity. Bayrou must also address domestic economic concerns.
Rejuvenate Your Mind, Body and Soul at These Airbnbs in India
River Lodge is located on the serene banks of the Periyar River in the historic port city of Muziris. With a stunning 150-meter riverfront, seven river-facing bedrooms, an infinity pool, open air bathroom, an Ayurvedic spa, and a boat jetty, the place is nestled within the pristine rural Kerala landscape offering a chance to disconnect from the hustle bustle of the city and connect with yourself.
Googles new GenAI podcast tool is exciting but how useful is it for business?
A feature added by an online research tool that Alphabet released last year can now turn documents into an eerily human-sounding podcast. With the value of GenAI being questioned, Google must find ways to make this tool useful for business users.
Equities reign atop the league table of investment returns
In terms of return on investment, investors face a classic choice between fixed-income instruments and equities. Even though the performance of shares has been impressive over both the past decade and last six months, people looking for a steady flow of income should go for fixed-income options.
Nouriel Roubini: Harriss economic policy proposals arent as risky as Trump's
While Kamala Harriss fiscal, trade, climate, immigration, currency and China policies seem to be a continuation of US President Joe Biden's plans and promise relative economic stability, Trumps agenda is more likely to cause inflation, reduce GDP growth and blow up the budget.
Public share offers arent raising much capital for new ventures
While IPOs historically raised money to forge new paths and expand businesses, their purpose has changed. These days, most IPOs are offers for sale, with promoters and other shareholders selling their shares to the public. Some equity sellers are VC and PE players aiming to cash out.
Quick-commerce players should come clean on their pricing game
Are quick delivery services using predatory prices? While its for the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to decide on probing their allegedly unfair market practices, Zepto, Blinkit and Instamart may find it worthwhile to fend off suspicions with pricing transparency.
Mint Quick Edit | Can a thaw over the LAC restore India-China ties?
Four years plus after the Galwan hostilities, India and China have agreed on disengagement and patrolling. Theres a long way ahead for mutual ties to normalize, but lets not under-exploit the potential of a better economic relationship.
A key factor for Marwaris remarkable economic prosperity lies in their informal institutional framework, which enable them to leverage trade credit effectively
Letters to the Editor dated October 21, 2024
Improving credit penetration in Bihar
RBIs priority sector lending guidelines have a key role to play in providing credit to small farmers, artisans and micro firms
Court reaffirms need for limited judicial intervention
Ceding ground on government procurement would impair the use of this instrument for boosting local economic capacity
Mitigate the impact of global shocks on Indias financial sector
To safeguard a financial system exposed to major vulnerabilities, India must bolster regulatory frameworks, crisis management and cybersecurity, and also reduce credit misallocation. Stability and sustained economic growth may depend on it.
Marijuana use is growing fast but its health impact is still a mystery
Cannabis consumption is rising in the US and Kamala Harris favours legalizing it across the country. But research studies remain woefully sketchy on what THC use at various dosage levels can do to the health of this drugs regular users.
Daron Acemoglu: Can the world escape a new gilded age?
Billionaires wield extraordinary power and influence today. Think of Elon Musk and his ownership of X. We could escape another gilded age if we pursue stronger institutional means to limit the influence of the ultra privileged and reconsider the policies that have created such extreme disparities.
Theres much Indian philanthropists can do for mental healthcare
Rather than simply spreading awareness about it, mental healthcare should be framed as a human right, focusing on accessibility and non-discrimination. We must push for policy and cultural shifts in favour of an inclusive framework that encourages multiple voices, perspectives and narratives.
The makeover of Lady Justice is a moment to reflect on our ideals
Indias Constitution replaces a sword and the blindfold has been cast off. While this is a judicious reform of judicial iconography and a worthy move by the Judiciary to shed its colonial baggage, it should prompt us to recall John Rawls veil of ignorance and Amartya Sens view of justice.
Mint Quick Edit | Hyundais IPO: What kept retail investors away?
The public response to Hyundais share offer was underwhelming, but was this because of its pricing and perceptions of its market prospects, or does it mark a turn in investor sentiment?
Rage spills over on roads; reels only fan the fire
In 2022, Delhi witnessed 76 road rage cases, which went up to 84 the next year
Greenwashing guidelines good, but could be sharper
Agenda for the new government in J&K
The Valley is on the threshold of a transformation in its polity and economy
The real scope of emissions protocol
Green risks. Disclosures relating to Scope 3 of the GHG Protocol are the most difficult to implement
Trade union recognition and the law
The case of Samsung union recognition is in the court
India needs to watch out for a remodelled EU thats taking shape
Political dynamics within the European Union could spell increasing bad news for India. With CBAM levies on the horizon, we may face even more EU protectionism, making an EU-India free trade agreement harder to strike.
Sorry, Powell cant be called the greatest Fed chair ever
Even if the Fed achieves a soft landing for the US economy, Jerome Powells record is marred by a failure to hold inflation in check. The Feds delayed efforts to withdraw its pandemic infusion of liquidity created asset bubbles and distorted the US housing market.
An open platform for e-commerce can transform Indias economy
Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is an all-inclusive e-commerce platform that serves the public aim of linking the entire country for wide economic participation. Its a worthy addition to the countrys digital public infrastructure.
Gradual or surge? One way or another, India needs greater military might.
To strengthen defence preparedness, Indias spending on it must rise sharply. The pace we choose is the question and this depends on how adequately the country is equipped to tide through the dramatically different world now inhabit.
The killing of Yahya Sinwar: Not the endgame?
Yahya Sinwar is gone, but the Israel-Hamas wars deeper existential battles remain unresolved.
Letters to the Editor dated October 18, 2024
Editorial. Satcom can complement telecom services in remote areas
Tech advancements have made it possible for satcom players to offer seamless broadband connectivity directly to the users smartphones, bypassing traditional cell towers
US elections fear and tension in the final stretch
Seasoned pundits are reluctant to call the election; there are too many imponderables in a belligerent contest
Daron Acemoglus three-point roadmap for Indias tech leadership
The 2024 Nobel laureate shares three key recommendations. Graduate from being a talent nation to an innovation hothouse, formulate a global tech strategy that includes alliances and push for technology that puts humans first.
Indermit Gill on what China and India must do to join the rich club
First invest, then infuse foreign technology and then innovate, says the World Banks chief economist
Leaders must stay coachable to unlock their true leadership potential
Leaders must embrace continuous learning, be open to critical feedback and make personal changes that could propel their professional growth. Such adaptability is critical for leaders to stay relevant in a fast-changing world of business.
Mission Europa: What secrets will this moon of Jupiter reveal?
Nasas mission to a Galilean moon of Jupiter thats encrusted in a thick shell of ice will let us know if its bulky ocean has signs of life. The lure, of course, is watera vital resource that weve failed so starkly to secure on Earth.
Mint Quick Edit | Indias row of ducks in cricket: What went wrong?
A bad decision to bat first? A ball that swung too much under overcast conditions? A score of 46 all out against New Zealand in Bengaluru is as dismal as it gets. Lets see how the team fares in its second innings.
Editorial. China market stimulus may not impact Indias FPI flows
While foreign funds may be buying Chinese equity for the short-term, the Indian market offers better returns for long-term investors
IMF does a volte-face on forex market management
It actually advocates central bank, government intervention to mitigate risks; admits flexible exchange rates may not work
Looking into our export basket
GAINS AND LOSSES. There is a need for export diversification and an effort to sustain growth in high-performing sectors
3-raters in corporates deserve respect
Diversification of fund sources needed for NBFCs
Gutfeel advice: Make space for intuition in a data-dazzled world
Data can dissect problems, identify patterns and provide clarity in a way that intuition cannot. But when confronted with abstract issues or when the data available is irrelevant, the best choice is often one that feels righta judgement that comes from the depth of experience.
T.N.Hari:Venture capital is yet to bet big money on high-risk deep-tech startups
VCs have largely stuck to relatively low-risk areas where startups fix immediate well-defined problems, despite falling returns, as the deep tech ecosystem is still in infancy. In time, we can expect VCs to start funding bolder ventures.
Ritesh Banglani: Yes, Indian venture capitalists do fund moonshot ideas
More than a startups technology, its impact reveals the quality of an investment, and venture capital has made truly daring bets in India. As for deep-tech risk appetite, think of how many space-tech startups VCs have fundedthats literally rocket science.
Lets not underestimate the risk of over-financialization
Indias swelling base of investors, IPO exuberance and soaring market capitalization as a ratio of GDP all suggest over-financialization that may result in financial instability. Rein in over-extended markets without letting the real economy take a blow.
Food inflation: Blame supply shortfalls as well as bad policy interventions
Knee-jerk reactions to price spikes have included food export curbs and stock limits, but these short-term actions to tame prices have often meant farmers had little reason to up output. We need public investment in well-regulated markets, storage facilities and distribution networks.
Mint Quick Edit | How to deal with hoax bomb threats
Indian airlines have received at least 13 false bomb threats in the past 48 hours alone, causing passengers stress and the industry losses. Can disruptors be deterred? Foolproof security may be our surest bet.
Allocate or auction spectrum? Let Indias telecom policy goals settle
Satellite spectrum allotment should go by what the country hopes to achieve. For the inclusion of underserved areas, we should go for cheap allocation. In urban India, however, we should aim for a level playing field to maximize competition.
Monetary policy cant quell stubborn food inflation
Monetary policy cannot do very much to control food inflation, given that it is caused by supply bottlenecks rather than increase in demand
Does deposit insurance make the cut?
Coverage of bank deposit insurance in India has improved since 2020, but premium collection can be linked to risk
A case for easing CD ratio for small finance banks
This will provide SFBs more flexibility in managing capital and liquidity; they can lend more effectively
