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ET Features: Next sustainability frontier may be hiding in your China cabinet
A new wave of globally influential buyers include wealthy Indian families, for many of whom having the choice of dinnerware can translate into fresh differentiation in the luxe segment
Trash & tourism are not symbiotic
But thanks to uncaring Indians, Pondicherry is drowning in litter despite its legacy of enlightened thinking bequeathed by Sri Aurobindo
Banking on the last-mile deliverers: Why the BC model is losing ground
India's banking agents, vital for financial inclusion, are under pressure. Declining numbers and shrinking profits threaten access to services in rural areas. This could reverse progress in empowering women and rural populations. Disruptions may delay payments and erode trust. Banks face rising costs and concentration risks.
India's senior living boom: Why modern retirement communities are the new choice for ageing parents
In India, a new wave of senior living communities is transforming the landscape for our elderly loved ones. These vibrant gated facilities combine the feel of a luxury resort with the practicality of independent living. Complete with recreational activities and top-notch amenities, residents find themselves in an environment that fosters both autonomy and social connection.
India, like many other countries, has expanded the jaded definition of Westphalian sovereignty
The nation-state thrives as a state of mind, evolving through perception and consumption colonialism. India exemplifies this with its 'upgradation' credo, evident in infrastructure, digital connectivity, and consumer spending growth. This relentless pursuit of the 'next big thing' defines its evolving national brand, built on accessible opportunity and a secular, inclusive cultural core.
View: India needs a school-food revolution and what Japan and Vietnam can teach us
India faces a nutrition challenge with rising obesity and diabetes. Lessons from Japan and Vietnam highlight the power of school meals in shaping lifelong habits. India's existing midday meal scheme needs strengthening. Private schools can adopt classroom catering and ban ultra-processed foods. Nutrition education integrated into daily routines is key for a healthier future.
GST leaks need plugging as fake invoices surge and exporters face liquidity strain
India's Goods and Services Tax system shows strong growth but struggles with fake invoice fraud, especially in the scrap sector. This practice allows tax evasion and distorts competition. Exporters also face delays in receiving refunds, impacting their cash flow. Policy changes, including lower GST on scrap and streamlined refund processes, are proposed to address these issues and boost business confidence.
Beyond imperial arrogance or nationalist resentment lies India's capacity to use English to reinvent
Thomas Babington Macaulay envisioned a class of Indian interpreters to aid British rule. Instead, India produced a global intelligentsia of leaders, innovators, and authors. This diaspora has excelled across continents, transforming the language of empire into a tool for creation and global influence.
India needs consumer-centric regulation, not restrictive rules that stifle markets
To resonate with the voices of everyday citizens, India's regulatory strategy must pivot towards a citizen-first vision. The priority should be to nurture an environment rich in competition while safeguarding health and safety measures.
View: Clip wings for errant flyers
Competition law is not about punishing success. It's about ensuring that success does not morph into unaccountable power.
India needs to expand its urban space to fuel economic growth, with the government now supporting new town development. While organic growth has its merits, building new cities from scratch allows for modern, efficient designs, as seen in China's successful ventures. Strategic planning, global connectivity, and sustainable infrastructure are crucial for India's future urban expansion.
So, align tariffs to strategy? Trump 2.0 NSS views India as crucial partner amid trade tensions
The new US National Security Strategy outlines a focused approach, highlighting the Western Hemisphere and Indo-Pacific as vital interests. India is recognized as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific, with renewed emphasis on the Quad grouping. The strategy signals US commitment to countering China's influence in Asia.
More power to navel gazing: New US doctrine rejects global obligations
With its new security plan, America is charting a course toward a more self-centered approach. This plan marks a stark evolution from global stewardship as the U.S. now turns its gaze inward to fortify priorities within its own borders and reinforce its influence in the Western Hemisphere.
-backed stablecoin brings little gain, but it puts stability and bank deposits at considerable risk
India is considering regulating rupee-backed stablecoins. This move follows growing demand and concerns about financial stability. Two firms are developing India's first rupee-backed stablecoin for a 2026 launch. The government aims to explore this in its upcoming Economic Survey. However, significant challenges and risks are there, potentially impacting bank deposits and market resilience.
Strategic autonomy in AI needs public investment across data, models, talent and governance
India's AI ambitions are hampered by its reliance on global tech giants for foundational models and infrastructure. While Indian firms excel in application development, a lack of control over core AI layers creates vulnerabilities. Strategic public investment in data, talent, and governance is crucial for India to become an AI creator, not just a consumer.
View: AI bubble is real and it will birth giants
The AI boom is creating a bubble, but it is a necessary one. Similar to past industrial bubbles, it is building future infrastructure. Companies are investing heavily in data centers and technology. While a correction is expected, strong AI companies will emerge to redefine intelligence. This investment fuels future progress.
View: India, revise the nuclear doctrine
India's 22-year-old nuclear doctrine, based on 'no first use' and 'credible minimum deterrence', faces urgent re-evaluation. With aggressive neighbors rapidly expanding arsenals and rejecting NFU promises, the current policy risks unilateral disarmament. Modern warfare's speed and evolving threats necessitate a clear, updated doctrine to safeguard national interests.
