32 C 
GST states quo won't do: Post-GST revenue divide widens across India
New CAG data reveals states are diverging in fiscal health post-GST. Some states are effectively building revenue capacity, while others are not. GST has boosted state tax revenues, but fiscal strength now hinges on non-tax revenues and asset monetisation. States that strengthen these areas will enhance autonomy. Those that do not face increasing dependence.
Measures to address the war's fallout lie outside MPC's remit - GoI and RBI must step up
The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee meets amid a West Asian war. This conflict disrupts supply chains and raises crude oil prices. Inflation is rising while growth shows signs of slowing. The committee must navigate these challenges. The government and RBI are taking steps to manage the rupee's depreciation. Future economic projections will be crucial.
Voted Out: When EC ghosts you before you reach the booth
A voter in West Bengal found her name missing from the electoral rolls. She suspects this is part of a government effort to identify infiltrators. The voter, a long-time resident of Kolkata, is disheartened by this exclusion. She expresses frustration over the lack of communication from the Election Commission. This situation prevents her from participating in the upcoming state elections.
Artemis II may chase Planet B, but the real fix for Earth does not lie in escaping it
Humans are exploring space for a new home. However, a radical idea suggests shrinking people to solve Earth's resource problems. Smaller humans would consume less food, energy, and space. This could drastically reduce pollution and financial burdens. While the transition would be challenging, markets would adapt. This concept offers a compelling alternative to leaving our current planet.
Hormuz to Hamas: Decoding West Asia flashpoints explained
From the Strait of Hormuz to the Horn of Africa, the piece unpacks key West Asia flashpoints, explaining why groups like Houthis, Hezbollah, and Hamas matter in todays geopolitics.
How Patna pegs people to become Darudevils, making safe drinking prohibitionary
Bihar's strict prohibition has created a black market for alcohol. Whisky prices have quadrupled, with quality control a major concern. The poor face increased risks of methanol poisoning. The article suggests official liquor sales could generate revenue and jobs. It highlights the irony of secrecy and furtiveness surrounding drinking in Patna.
Indias next reform push must target cost of doing business
India faces high business costs impacting competitiveness. Addressing credit, land, input, logistics, and compliance expenses is crucial. Benchmarking against nations like Vietnam and China offers a path forward. Lowering these costs will drive capacity expansion, boost exports, and create formal jobs. This is essential for sustained economic growth.
Seat fees are not the real problem
India's aviation regulator has paused a directive mandating free seat selection for 60% of seats, opting for a broader review. This decision acknowledges airlines' need for ancillary revenue to offset high operational costs and fund expansion, while also considering passenger concerns about fairness and transparency in pricing.
Why a new world order is overdue
A powerful cabal, the Military-Industrial-Congress complex, influences US policy. This group, along with technology, finance, and Israel lobbies, drives global conflict. The article argues that removing one president will not solve the issue. Instead, it calls for BRICS+ nations to build a new world order for global peace and development.
Why fixing Indias export machinery is key to hitting the $2 trillion goal
India aims for $2 trillion in exports by 2030. Current growth is slow, and global market share is small. The country faces challenges in export geography and product diversity. A new strategy is proposed. It includes a unified trade facilitation agency, increased investment in trade fairs, and large sector-specific exhibitions.
CFO brogues on ground in war room as West Asia war bites
India faces severe economic challenges from West Asian conflicts. Oil imports are disrupted, the Rupee has fallen, and foreign investors are withdrawing funds. Traditional business plans are now invalid. Chief Financial Officers must become 'bridge officers', actively adapting business models. This requires building strong buffers against potential supply chain failures and market freezes.
Kamikaze from Mar-a-Lago: Despite all the death and destruction, it's Advantage Iran
Iran war: Tehran had the capacity to set the region alight and squeeze the global economy. Now even more so after years of preparation and Chinese help. Trump is finding out the hard way, as is Pete Hegseth, his secretary of war and hardcore Christian nationalist.
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.
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.
