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Test of Sarma Shiksha Abhiyan in Assam Polls amid welfare gains and social faultlines
Assam's election sees BJP promising daily expulsion of Bangladeshi infiltrators. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's aggressive stance on immigration and religion shapes the campaign. Opposition unity and ethnic demands present challenges. Development in infrastructure and investment is noted. The election is crucial for Sarma's political future.
Indian private credit is not facing the same issues as the US. US private credit stress stems from fund architecture, not bad loans. India's market uses closed-end funds with fixed tenures, avoiding maturity mismatches. Investor participation is limited to institutions and high-net-worth individuals. Financing focuses on real economic growth, not tech sector leverage. This offers global investors a stable alternative.
What Census 2027 will reveal about the country weve become
India's Census 2027, launched April 1, is a crucial exercise. It will assess the nation's socioeconomic transformation since 2011. The census will inform political power, welfare, and federalism. It includes caste enumeration for the first time since Independence. This count will reveal if India's growth is broad-based and if progress has been equitable.
Apple hasn't fallen far from iTree
Celebrating 50 years of trailblazing advancements, Apple has transformed the tech landscape and fueled artistic imagination. Its iconic marketing strategies have created a formidable brand identity. As they unveil fresh products and harness the power of AI, India plays a pivotal role as both a manufacturing powerhouse and a vibrant market.
Transgressionary state: Transgender Amendment Act is a step back on freedom, democracy and growth
India's Transgender Act faces criticism for undermining individual rights and autonomy. This law's restrictions on self-determination and the imposition of medical scrutiny are seen as detrimental to economic growth. Experts argue that curtailing freedoms, even for a minority, harms national development. The Act is viewed as a step backward for freedom, democracy, and progress in India.
Unlocking $161 billion: What India must do to boost China exports
China is the world's second-largest importer after the US, with total imports valued at about $2.6 tn in 2024. Yet, India's share in China's imports stands at a mere 0.7%. These numbers point to an underexploited opportunity of considerable magnitude.
Under Fire but Not Broken: How Iran is using Hormuz to push back
Iran is surprisingly resilient after US and Israeli attacks. By blocking the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran has escalated war costs for its enemies. This move has disrupted global oil supplies and impacted economies worldwide. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the crisis. The situation highlights Iran's strategic leverage despite military challenges.
India's foreign policy focuses on securing energy and protecting assets during the Gulf War. Global economies face widespread fears of supply disruption and inflation. The conflict's impact could extend to the early 2030s. India and Pakistan share similar goals for their citizens. Regional powers have differing interests regarding Iran's role. Israel's strategy diverges from India's.
Sanjay Malhotras baptism by fire amid West Asia war's economic consequences
India's central bank governor faces a critical test as war disrupts global markets. Inflation and growth are key concerns. The Reserve Bank of India must navigate these uncertainties to manage interest rates and the rupee's value. The governor's decisions will shape the nation's economic outlook. Balancing inflation control with growth support is paramount.
The AI era needs a defining gadget. Jony Ive, who shaped the smartphone, is now working with OpenAI on a new AI device. This aims to redefine our computer interaction. Early attempts have struggled. The smartphone itself might evolve. Ive's new creation could be screenless and ambient, shifting focus from screens to presence.
Phubbing killing pubbing: How phones silence social life
Phubbing, a catchy term for the act of snubbing someone in favor of your phone, is infiltrating social settings like cafs and bars, eroding the essence of face-to-face conversations. Individuals, captivated by their devices, risk not only their personal relationships but also the vibrancy of local businesses.
What does one eat in Kyrgyzstan? Korea, Japan come to the rescue
Snow blankets Bishkek as travelers seek food. Kyrgyzstan's cuisine relies on meat. A vegetarian partner faces challenges. Japanese and Korean restaurants offer alternatives. These culinary finds mirror past experiences in other countries. The city's Soviet-era architecture and Ala-Too Square provide a historical backdrop. The Epic of Manas resonates with the past's presence.
'Not a wife, but a widow can realise the importance of life insurance'
A man named Bharat Parekh helps bereaved families in India discover forgotten life insurance policies. Billions of rupees remain unclaimed because families do not discuss investments openly. Men often die with financial secrets, leaving behind unknown assets or debts. Parekh's work highlights the importance of life insurance and the need for families to communicate about finances.
A mad T party at the White House (with apologies to Lewis Carroll)
Alice finds the March Hare and Mad Hatter at a White House tea party. They offer Kool-Aid and engage in nonsensical conversation. The Hatter poses a riddle about a THAAD missile defence system. The Dormouse speaks in Spanish. The Cheshire Cat appears and offers cryptic advice about strategic autonomy before vanishing. The scene highlights a surreal encounter.
Why not dhoties in the workplace?
Indian men largely avoid traditional attire like dhoti-kurta for work, preferring Western suits. While women wear sarees, men hesitate to adopt Indian wear professionally. This reluctance persists despite India's growing confidence and the practicality of climate-appropriate clothing. The article suggests a shift towards embracing Indian attire, similar to other cultures, for professional settings.
Legislative dignity for Harish Ranas: The legal journey shaping Indias right to die debate
India's journey towards the right to die with dignity has seen major milestones. The Harish Rana case marks a significant step, applying the best interest principle in end-of-life decisions. This ruling considers both medical and non-medical factors, prioritizing the patient's potential choices. While the judiciary has advanced this right, legislative action is now crucial for its effective realization.
Rupee's steep fall: Are India's macro fundamentals strong enough to withstand global shocks?
India's economic growth remains strong despite a weakening rupee. This decline is not supported by the country's macro fundamentals. The article explores potential solutions, including targeted bond offerings and alternative payment systems. It suggests that a multipolar world order and collaboration among nations can help support regional currencies and reclaim space on the global stage.
India is launching its first phase of Noida International Airport, aiming to become a global transit hub. This ambitious project faces hurdles beyond infrastructure, requiring a coordinated ecosystem of aviation services. Unlike established hubs like Dubai and Singapore, India relies on private sector investment and market forces. The nation is working to attract international traffic and build its aviation capabilities.
