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Nothing Dickensian about gig work
Gig work offers significant livelihood generation and worker agency in India. Platform companies are crucial for this ecosystem. While worker welfare is important, misguided activism risks harming the model. The path forward involves industry best practices and social security provisions. A sustainable gig economy requires recognising platform viability and worker welfare as complementary goals.
India will soon join Pax Silica, a US-led semiconductor initiative. Initially excluded, India's inclusion is now vital for the alliance's success. This move recognizes India's crucial role in building secure global chip supply chains. Membership offers India access to technology, investment, and strategic partnerships, accelerating its semiconductor ambitions and strengthening its position in global technology networks.
Global trade matrix: India mustn't remain a lone ranger while arenas are being carved out
India faces a complex trade policy challenge, navigating US proposals to reshape WTO decision-making and potentially abandoning consensus. While a US trade deal offers opportunities, India must also engage with the growing EU-CPTPP bloc to avoid isolation amidst shifting global trade dynamics.
Trump's adventures in Greenland put Europe to test yet again
United States' President Trump is pushing for the acquisition of Greenland. He has stated he prefers a peaceful deal but will pursue it forcefully if necessary. This move is seen as a strategic play for geopolitical dominance. Meanwhile, Europe is concerned about the implications for its security and alliances.
Budget 2026 must signal strong reforms to attract foreign investment. With fewer tax incentives, the government needs to weave together measures to boost investor confidence. This is crucial to counter capital outflows and stabilise the economy. The budget needs to be a clear message on reforms, moving beyond isolated announcements to create a compelling narrative.
Writer Anuja Chauhan, non-fiction author Rashmi Bansal, and entrepreneur Mamta Sharma emphasise the importance of being socially selective to protect productivity and mental well-being. Chauhan prioritises genuine interactions over performative social obligations like PTA meetings or conferences.
Ever-protesting, never-protestant: A work ethic
Renovating your home can sometimes feel like an endurance test. In this lighthearted account, we follow a homeowner navigating through the trials of a stalled bathroom tile project. With tile setter Zulfi facing unexpected health issues and plumber Gobindo playing hide-and-seek with his schedule, the journey was anything but smooth.
Jai Sriram...Raghavan! An anti-war war movie, with meta help from Paaji & Asrani
Ikkis, a film about Arun Khetarpal, offers a different perspective on war as i t focuses on individual soldiers and their experiences. The movie blends real events with tributes to veteran actors. It explores themes of humanity and empathy. The film encourages introspection about human nature. It presents a ground-level view of war.
As Americas global image frays and Donald Trump flirts with territorial expansion, a Kolkata resident turns the lens inwardtowards a crumbling lane in Kalitala that civic authorities have all but abandoned.
It's all about (re)turning to alternatives: Move more, eat smart, drop the food myths
Traditional Indian foods are making a comeback as modern diets face scrutiny. Calls for healthier eating are prompting a fresh look at ingredients. Moderation and mindfulness are key to navigating these changes. Revisiting ancestral wisdom offers valuable lessons for contemporary lifestyles.
Is H-1B still a skills bridge, or a gatekeeping tool shaped by politics, price and perception?
The H-1B visa program is changing significantly. New rules are making it harder and more expensive for Indian professionals to work in the US. This creates uncertainty for individuals and American companies. The program is shifting from a skills bridge to a system influenced by politics and price. These changes could impact the US talent pool and innovation.
What it will take to build Indias coal trading market
India is paving the way for a modern coal spot market, with new regulations enabling trading on digital platforms. The key to this initiative's triumph lies in establishing trust in pricing and settlement processes. Current market fragmentation could undermine price clarity, making the need for standardized contracts, transparent trading frameworks, and robust regulations more vital than ever.
Cheape but still costly for many: Indias weaker rupee helps policy, but pinches key sectors
India's rupee weakened in 2025 but remains costly for many businesses. Forex policy should focus on currency competitiveness to aid economic needs. A mildly undervalued rupee over the medium term is recommended. This approach supports goods exporters facing global challenges and US tariffs.
How Trumps spectacular assault may have broken the world order
The United States under Donald Trump is challenging the global rules established after World War 2. Actions in Venezuela and discussions about Greenland suggest a move away from respecting national borders. This shift impacts international law and territorial sovereignty. India has an opportunity to shape a new international system by focusing on strategic autonomy and building influence in emerging regions.
US abdicates global leadership: Will India fill the void or will chaos reign?
The U.S. retreat from international engagements disrupts existing frameworks, leading to increased complexity in global cooperation on critical challenges, especially environmental ones. In this shifting landscape, India has a golden opportunity to evolve into a proactive player, crafting rules that not only enhance climate strategies but also ensure that global governance aligns with the contemporary developmental landscape.
BRICS must cement its global role
India takes over BRICS leadership in 2026. The group faces global shifts and differing views. BRICS+ has expanded, increasing its economic influence. India's presidency aims to boost BRICS' economic plans and connect with G7 and G20. The group will focus on trade in local currencies and new financial systems. BRICS seeks to reform global governance and foster collaboration.
Opaque algorithms that can't be questioned are creating insecurity in the gig economy
Gig economy platforms like Zomato, driven by algorithms, are increasingly shaping worker behavior and earnings through opaque adjustments. This mirrors past issues with ride-sharing services, where initial incentives were replaced by cost-cutting measures, leaving drivers with volatile incomes and debt. The current situation highlights a lack of worker protections and the need for algorithmic accountability.
